Feed aggregator

Domingo is back on 'SNL' for a baby shower

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 13:41
SNL revives Domingo with Charli XCX and a "HOT TO GO!" by Chappell Roan spoof.

Papal drama 'Conclave' draws an unlikely online fandom

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 13:03

On its surface, Conclave's target audience might be retired folks catching a weekday matinee. Its cast boasts an array of all-star actors over 60: Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini. And it follows the process of electing a new Pope.

But the papal thriller has drawn an unlikely online fandom due to its modern mess and drama. It's inspired jokes, memes, and even fan edits. A fan captured the unlikely appeal of the movie by describing it as "just Mean Girls for popes."

SEE ALSO: 'Conclave' review: Vatican-set thriller is divinely fun

One X user wrote, that Conclave "is a 10/10 movie for gasping and gagging. movie version of the “hey girly” message. every time ralph finnes served diva the crowd gasped an a man blew raspberries. I’m a believer."

Another said, "what if the pope DIED before letting you QUIT and you have to run the CONCLAVE while you were HAVING DOUBTS and the italian candidate was VAPING and FASCIST so you tried to vote for YOURSELF and you FELL DOWN."

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

Fans also compared it to The Real Housewives franchise. One user captioned an image of two Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, "This is exactly what Conclave is like."

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

Others are experimenting with the new vocabulary of the Vatican. One user joked, "i want to know what all the cardinals in conclave had chosen as their popenames.... i want to hear about the popesonas that never made it..." Another wrote, "(me asking my friends if they have time to see Conclave with me) what's your Conclavability this week."

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

But the most iconic Conclave post is the edit to Charli XCX's "Sympathy is a Knife." If that doesn't convince you to see the film, just know you're missing out.

Tweet may have been deleted

'SNL' Cold Open parodies Trump and Biden's presidential transition meeting

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 12:21
'SNL' Cold Open parodies Trump and Biden's presidential transition meeting

Charli XCX stars in very mean 'SNL' meet cute

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 10:54
Charli XCX stars in very mean 'SNL' meet cute

Charli XCX hooks up with Shrek in 'SNL' sketch

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 10:37
Charli XCX hooks up with Shrek in 'SNL' sketch

NYT's The Mini crossword answers, hints for November 17, 2024

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 09:08

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 Sunday, November 17, 2024:

AcrossSomeone for whom a velvet rope may be lifted, in brief
  • The answer is VIP.

Workplace with pickaxes
  • The answer is Mine.

Puff piece?
  • The answer is Cigar.

Lose a staring contest
  • The answer is Blink.

Parts of Crocs that say "crocs" on them
  • The answer is Soles.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 17 DownCandlelight ceremony
  • The answer is Vigil.

Totally harebrained
  • The answer is Inane.

Company car and a free gym membership, for example
  • The answer is Perks.

Venus de ___ (sculpture)
  • The answer is Milo.

"60 Minutes" network
  • The answer is CBS.

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 the latest Mini Crossword.

Election Reveals Right-Wing Shift of Social Media Platforms

NYT Technology - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:01
If the election underscored anything about the internet, it was the ascendancy of social platforms for the right. That puts Democrats at a disadvantage.

ChatGPT Defeated Doctors at Diagnosing Illness

NYT Technology - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:01
A small study found ChatGPT outdid human physicians when assessing medical case histories, even when those doctors were using a chatbot.

The 90s called — they love this $35 retro see-through power bank

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Sprinkle in some nostalgia with your tech gift this season with a 20,000mAh power bank with a transparent retro-tech case — get it on sale for $34.99 (reg. $49.99). 

Opens in a new window Credit: HyperGear Transparent Retro Power Bank 20,000mAh Fast-Charge 20W USB-C $34.99 at the Mashable Shop
$49.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal

For anyone who loves a bit of nostalgia mixed with modern convenience, the Transparent Retro 20,000mAh Power Bank is a holiday dream come true. This unique power bank brings back the best of 90s tech vibes with a clear, see-through casing that lets you glimpse its inner workings while delivering cutting-edge performance. Priced at just $34.99 (originally $49.99) for the holidays, it’s a gift that’s as fun as it is functional.

It features a lightweight, ultra-slim design that’s easy to slip into a bag or pocket. But the retro vibe isn’t all it’s packing: with a massive 20,000mAh capacity, it can provide up to four full charges for most smartphones or keep your tablet powered for up to an additional 24 hours. And with a digital battery-level display, you’ll always know how much power you have left.

When it’s time to charge, this power bank doesn’t mess around. It features 20W USB-C Power Delivery and dual USB adaptive fast charge ports, letting you power up three devices simultaneously.

Whether you’re recharging your phone, tablet, or even a friend’s device, this power bank has the speed to match its capacity. The 20W USB-C port means it can bring a smartphone up to 50 percent battery in just 30 minutes, so you’re never stuck waiting around.

Holidays on the go? This power bank’s SmartChip safety features protect your devices from overheating and overcharging. Plus, pass-through charging means you can charge the power bank and your devices at the same time, so it’s always ready when you need it.

For the 90s enthusiast, the tech lover, or anyone who appreciates form meeting function, this transparent power bank is a gift that will surprise and delight.

Grab this Transparent Retro 20,000mAh Power Bank while it's still available for just $34.99 (originally $49.99).

Transparent Retro Power Bank 20,000mAh Fast-Charge 20W USB-C - $34.99 | Get It Here

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Mac users are ditching G Suite and working offline with MS Office, now $40 for life

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Get Microsoft Office 2021 for Mac with lifetime offline access for just $39.99 (reg. $229) through Nov. 21.

G Suite has been a go-to for Mac users who want free and easy access to productivity apps, but they’re largely limited when working in dead zones or dealing with sketchy Wi-Fi. A Microsoft Office download covers all the essentials without the hassle of a constant internet connection. 

For a one-time purchase of $39.99, you can get lifelong device access to six productivity apps fully offline, so you can keep working wherever you are. This price drop is only through Nov. 21, or until we sell out of codes.

With lifetime access to all the essentials — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook — you’re covered for all your business needs. The best part? You don’t need to scramble for the nearest hotspot to access your files. Everything is saved locally, so you can pick up right where you left off, no matter where you are.

Whether you're on a plane, in a remote cabin, or just dealing with spotty Wi-Fi, this software lets you edit and save documents directly on your Mac, ensuring your productivity doesn’t take a hit when your connection does.

So, whether you're a frequent traveler, someone who works in areas with unreliable internet, or you just want the peace of mind that your documents are always accessible, check out this deal.

Until Nov. 21 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can score a lifetime license to Microsoft Office Home & Business for Mac 2021 on sale for $39.99 (reg. $229) — an 82% discount.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Office Home & Business 2019 for Mac $39.99 at the Mashable Shop
$229.00 Save $189.01 Get Deal

Who's who in 'Dune: Prophecy': Every character you need to know

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:00

HBO's Dune: Prophecy offers us a look at what the world of Dune was like 10,000 years before the rise of Paul Atreides. Naturally, that time jump means we get to meet a whole new cast of characters — a process that can be daunting given Dune: Prophecy's intricate sci-fi lore.

SEE ALSO: 'Dune: Prophecy' review: The Bene Gesserit shine in this sci-fi showstopper

But don't worry! We've assembled a handy-dandy character guide to help you navigate the ins and outs of Dune: Prophecy, from the Sisterhood to the Imperial Royal Family. You'll be an expert in no time.

On Wallach IX: The Sisterhood Emily Watson, Olivia Williams, Jihae, and Tabu in "Dune: Prophecy." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Photos: Attila Szvacsek / HBO

Inspired by Brian Herbert (son of Dune author Frank Herbert) and Kevin J. Anderson's novel Sisterhood of Dune, Dune: Prophecy centers on the early days of the Bene Gesserit order, back when it was known simply as "the Sisterhood." The series picks up over a century after the Butlerian Jihad, a war against "thinking machines" (aka AI) that led to the banning of all computers.

Several forces rose to fill the void left behind by thinking machines, including the Sisterhood. At their school on the rainy planet Wallach IX, the Sisterhood trains young women to serve the Great Houses as Truthsayers. Their guidance from the shadows bolsters the Sisterhood's power and creates a growing network of influence across the Imperium. Among those shaping the future of the Sisterhood are:

Mother Superior Valya Harkonnen (Emily Watson): The current leader of the Sisterhood, Valya was a close confidant of the Sisterhood's founder, Mother Raquella (Cathy Tyson). She hopes to make the Sisterhood an unstoppable force and push the boundaries of what it means to be human.

She also hopes to bring House Harkonnen (yes, of Feyd-Rautha fame) back into the Imperium's good graces, as they were disgraced following the end of the Butlerian Jihad. The culprits? The pesky members of House Atreides, whose beef with House Harkonnen will endure long past Dune: Prophecy and into Dune.

SEE ALSO: The Bene Gesserit take control in 'Dune: Prophecy' teaser

Reverend Mother Tula Harkonnen (Olivia Williams): Valya's younger sister. While Tula tends to do her Valya's bidding, the rise of a new threat to the Sisterhood may force the pair in radically different directions.

Reverend Mother Kasha (Jihae): A close friend of Tula and Valya since their days as acolytes in the Sisterhood, Kasha is also the Truthsayer for Emperor Javicco Corrino (Mark Strong).

Sister Francesca (Tabu): Sister Francesca is another good friend of Tula, Valya, and Kasha's from their acolyte days. She was once a great love of the Emperor.

On Wallach IX: The acolytes of the Sisterhood Jade Anouka, Faoileann Cunningham, Aoife Hinds, and Chloe Lea in "Dune: Prophecy." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Photos: Attila Szvacsek / HBO

The Reverend Mothers and high-ranking Truthsayers aren't the only members of the Sisterhood Dune: Prophecy focuses on. You'll also meet a quarter of acolytes, each negotiating their own relationship to the order they've devoted their lives to. They are:

Sister Theodosia (Jade Anouka): A hard-working acolyte with a lot of potential, Sister Theodosia — or just Theo — aspires to be the best Truthsayer she can, all while hiding a dangerous secret of her own.

Sister Jen (Faoileann Cunningham): Emotionally guarded and somewhat skeptical of the Sisterhood's teachings, Sister Jen is among the most unpredictable acolytes in the Sisterhood.

SEE ALSO: Denis Villeneuve breaks down the evolution of sandworms in 'Dune: Part Two'

Sister Emeline (Aoife Hinds): Raised by anti-technology Butlerians, Sister Emeline is a deeply religious member of the Sisterhood. In some scenes, you can catch her reading the Orange Catholic Bible, a foundational religious text in the Dune world.

Sister Lila (Chloe Lea): Sister Lila is the youngest acolyte in the Sisterhood and was raised in the order. Her deep empathy and kindness could lead her to greatness — or could they lead someone to take advantage of her?

On Salusa Secundus: The Imperial Royal Family Mark Strong, Jodhi May, Sarah-Sofie Boussnina, and Josh Heuston in "Dune: Prophecy." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Photos: Attila Szvacsek / HBO

In Dune, Salusa Secundus is the Emperor's prison planet, where the Sardaukar fighters are trained. (Remember the banger throat-singing scene in Denis Villeneuve's Dune? That was all on Salusa Secundus.) However, thousands of year prior, it was the homeworld of the Imperial House Corrino, and therefore the seat of the Emperor. This opulent paradise is home to the Imperial Royal Family, which includes:

Emperor Javicco Corrino (Mark Strong): Head of the Imperium, Emperor Javicco hopes to maintain peace in the era following the machine wars. But that's easier said than done, especially when his grasp on the spice-rich planet of Arrakis is slipping. Don't worry, Javicco, your descendants will have the exact same problem for millennia.

Empress Natalya Arat Corrino (Jodhi May): With her marriage to Emperor Javicco, Empress Natalya helped unite the Imperium. However, she'd love to contribute further, even as her husband begins to heed her counsel less and less.

Princess Ynez Corrino (Sarah-Sofie Boussnina): Heir to the Golden Lion throne, Princess Ynez is determined to be the best ruler she can be. That means joining up with the Sisterhood. If her training is successful, she'd be the first Sister on the throne. (And you know Valya would love to see that.)

Constantine Corrino (Josh Heuston): Constantine is Emperor Javicco's illegitimate son. (Jon Snow in space, anyone?) While he's close with Ynez, he also find himself in the awkward limbo of trying to impress his father or simply living a carefree life of hedonistic bliss.

On Salusa Secundus: The outsiders Travis Fimmel, Chris Mason, and Shalom Brune-Franklin in "Dune: Prophecy." Credit: Composite: Mashable / Photos: Attila Szvacsek / HBO

The Imperial Royal Family have several intriguing characters hovering in their orbits. They are:

Desmond Hart (Travis Fimmel): A charismatic soldier previously stationed on Arrakis, Desmond arrives on Salusa Secundus with troubling news and an even more troubling ability, one that could tip the scales of power across the Imperium. Oh, and he wants to wipe out the Sisterhood for good.

SEE ALSO: Space babies and time jumps: How 'Dune: Part Two' handles the challenge of Alia Atreides

Keiran Atreides (Chris Mason): An Atreides? In Dune? It's more likely than you think. Keiran Atreides is a Swordmaster for House Corrino who trains closely with Ynez. Very closely.

Mikaela (Shalom Brune-Franklin): A Fremen woman who works in a Salusa Secundus spice den, Mikaela is hiding some secrets of her own.

Dune: Prophecy premieres Nov. 17 at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.

Bring back the glory days of gaming with one epic retro console for 37% off

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Get the Kinhank Super Console X2 Pro for $99.99 (reg. $159.99) and give the gift of thousands of classic games, free shipping included.

Need a gift that’s equal parts nostalgia and all-around fun? The Kinhank Super Console X2 Pro might be just the ticket, on sale for 37% off at $99.99. This isn’t your typical gaming console — it’s a time machine packed with over 70,000 pre-loaded games from the ‘80s, ‘90s, and early 2000s, making it the perfect way to relive the golden age of gaming.

Imagine firing up classics like Super Mario, Street Fighter, and Pac-Man all over again, or introducing them to someone experiencing these gems for the first time.

Setting it up is simple: just plug it into your TV, grab a controller, and dive right into the action — no complex installations or additional hardware required. And it’s not only a retro gaming powerhouse. The Super Console doubles as a streaming device, letting you effortlessly switch between intense rounds of player versus player and a holiday movie marathon on your favorite streaming platform. This little console does it all, blending the best of retro gaming and entertainment into one compact system.

For those holiday gatherings, the console’s multiplayer support lets you share the fun with friends and family. It supports two controllers, so you can challenge your cousin to a friendly competition. With classics from every genre — from fighting and racing to puzzles and RPGs — there’s something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of age.

For gamers and nostalgia lovers alike, this console wraps up retro thrills in a way that’ll never go out of style.

At $99.99 (reg. $159.99) with free shipping, the Kinhank Super Console X2 Pro Retro Gaming Emulator and Streaming Console is a gift that brings back memories, invites new ones, and adds a little extra cheer to the holidays. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kinhank Kinhank Super Console X2 Pro Retro Gaming Emulator & Streaming Console $99.99 at the Mashable Shop
$159.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal

This AI recorder might be the end of note-taking — get it for 32% off

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: This voice-to-text recorder uses AI to transcribe and summarize meetings and lectures. Grab one while it's 32% off and enjoy free shipping while supplies last.

Taking notes in a fast-paced meeting or class lecture is tough — and annoying. You try your hardest to stay engaged, but you’re stuck writing everything down or furiously typing, hoping nothing important slips by. In the end, all you have is an unhelpful partial transcript of the conversation.

Instead, this AI audio recorder could capture every spoken word for you. Not only does the Focais AI voice-to-text device transcribe conversations, meetings, and lectures, but it can also summarize all the key points for you. For a limited time at the Mashable Shop, you can get this innovative little device for just $99.99 with free shipping (reg. $149).

Change the way you work and study

How is this smart voice recorder any different than just taking videos of meetings or classes on your phone? Here’s exactly why:

  • It only records when it detects sound to save memory and battery

  • AI enhances voice clarity while minimizing background noise

  • OpenAI’s Whisper transcribes voices into text with 98% accuracy, including timestamps

  • AI automatically summarizes conversations 

  • If you’re in a language course or international business meeting, you can also get AI translations in over 120 languages

Sure, you could record that hour-long lecture on your phone, upload it to ChatGPT, and see if you get a decent transcript to summarize. Or, you could just hit record on this gadget and have it all done automatically.

Listen to your recordings and view the transcripts and summaries on the iOS and Android app. You’ll also be able to easily share files with any of your colleagues or classmates — if you’re feeling generous. 

Take one of these meeting and lecture recording tools home for $99.99 with free shipping (reg. $149) before they’re sold out.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Focais Focais: Meet One - Voice-Activated AI-Powered Recorder $99.99 at the Mashable Shop
$149.00 Save $49.01 Get Deal

Ditch the dozens of AI apps and get one tool that does it all — $100 for life

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: For a limited time, score 1minAI’s lifetime subscription for $99.99 and get access to an all-in-one AI toolkit.

Opens in a new window Credit: 1minAI 1minAI Advanced Business Plan Lifetime Subscription $99.99
$540.00 Save $440.01 Get Deal

Managing multiple subscriptions for all your creative and professional needs? That’s more juggling than anyone needs — and it’s pricey, too.

Get a lifetime subscription to 1minAI on sale for $99.99 — it's a single platform packed with the tools you’d normally need a bunch of apps to accomplish. From content writing and image editing to data analysis, 1minAI has you covered — all in one convenient spot.

1minAI makes it easy to handle a variety of tasks with a user-friendly setup, so you’re not wasting time hopping between different tools. It includes everything from AI-driven writing assistance to design and photo editing options, letting you switch between projects without the constant app shuffle. Plus, 1minAI gives you 4,000,000 credits each month, plus the chance to earn up to 450,000 extra credits monthly, giving you plenty of space to test, create, and explore without worrying about extra fees.

While AI tools are incredibly helpful, they aren’t perfect — and 1minAI is straightforward about that. You’ll get support with drafting, designing, and brainstorming, but human editing and oversight can bring your projects to the next level. Think of it as an AI sidekick that keeps things running smoothly, while you remain the creative mastermind.

Simplify your creative process and boost efficiency with 1minAI’s Business Plan lifetime subscription — all for $99.99, with no monthly fees.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Top 4 robot vacuums for small spaces to shop on Black Friday

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:00

The 10 minutes it takes to manually vacuum a 700-square-foot apartment probably isn't enough to send someone over the edge as far as chores are concerned. While the time-saving factor may be a moot point here, it doesn't completely diminish the appeal of using a robot vacuum in a crowded home.

SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum

It's actually totally plausible that spaces with less square footage get dirty faster because virtually every spot is a high-traffic spot. With that logic, a robot vacuum is absolutely worth it in a small space.

However, it is crucial to not automatically assume that less floor to cover means that the cheapest vacuum you can find will suffice. Cramped furniture arrangements and quick changes between floor types actually call for a vac on the more competent end navigation-wise, or you'll risk arriving home to a bot that got stuck in kitchen chair legs during the first five minutes of cleaning. Before getting into specific robovac recommendations, let's assess the features that would make this a smart purchase.

Do robot vacuums work in small apartments?

While some large, heavy-duty robot vacuums would probably be overkill in a tight space, there are several compact, quiet robot vacuums on the market that make a lot of sense in a small space.

One way to downsize the space a robot vac takes up is to forego the self-empty dock. While forgoing it automatic emptying o save yourself inches on the floor may not be ideal, it'll be a little less damning in a small space, as the vacuum isn't sucking up as much dirt on each cleaning run as it would in a big house. However, finding a super compact auto-empty dock nowadays isn't hard, and many robot vacuums offer the option to buy one separately later.

SEE ALSO: Amazon Prime Day vs. Black Friday: When are the deals better?

If your small apartment has hard floors, a robot vacuum and mop combo is a genius way to downsize chores supplies. This'll save you not only the time it takes to mop manually but also the breath it takes to curse your Swiffer for hogging your scarce closet space. Multiple floor types also make smart mapping and zone labeling a crucial feature, despite the fact that your home may not have many specific rooms to select on a map in the first place.

Should I buy a robot vacuum on Black Friday?

Absolutely, especially if you're set on saving money on a robot vacuum splurge. Robot vacuums have evolved into a core Black Friday category at all of the big retailers — it's the most likely time of year for many robot vacuums to drop to new record-low sale pricing. I'm tracking those Black Friday robot vacuum deals now through Cyber Week, updating the list as new deals pop up.

Not sure which options to look for this Black Friday? I've hands-on tested the top contenders over the years and have handpicked the four best robot vacuums for apartments, studios, and other one-story homes. (Take the prices you see with a grain of salt — we list the MSRPs for each robot vacuum, but they're almost always on sale, which is even more likely if you're shopping during the Black Friday season. I list each vacuum's most common sale price in "The Good" section for each.)

The best free VPNs we've tested

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:00

In the realm of cybersecurity, "best VPN" and "paid VPN" are effectively synonyms. Yes, free VPNs (aka virtual private networks) do exist, but most of them are extremely sketchy. That means your data could be logged, sold, or leaked — or even downloading an app intentionally bundled with malware. They need to keep the lights on somehow.

So, here's my general rule of thumb: Paid, premium VPN services are always the safest and most reliable. But there's a small loophole for cash-strapped users, which is that some premium providers do offer free tiers and trials. They're typically more limited than their paid counterparts, with usage restrictions and fewer server options, but they're at least protected by the same privacy practices — including vetted no-logs policies.

For users searching for the best free VPNs, or those who need a VPN for occasional short-term use, these free tiers are handy tools.

What is the best free VPN?

After testing some of the most popular free VPN services, I think TunnelBear is the best free VPN for most people. Its cute, basic, and ad-free app is super easy to use, it offers some form of split tunneling on all platforms, and its free users get 2GB of browsing data on one simultaneous connection per month. (You can't have it running constantly in the background across all your devices, but life is full of tradeoffs.) TunnelBear abides by sound transparency and privacy practices, and it doesn't make any money off its free users — nor does it require they enter any credit card information.

SEE ALSO: The best VPN services of 2024, tested and reviewed

CyberGhost VPN and ExpressVPN also offer decent trials. CyberGhost is free on desktop or mobile for up to a week, and ExpressVPN is free for a week on mobile. Both apps have large and globally diverse server networks that make them good for traveling or unblocking regional content, like streaming services, and free users get full access to these networks. (They both allowed me to watch Love Island UK from my home in Chicago.) However, CyberGhost and ExpressVPN both restrict split tunneling on certain platforms, have a shared parent company with an iffy past, and require credit card info from trial users.

What I'm testing next

In mid-2024, I tried the free version of Proton VPN on Windows for another one of Mashable's VPN guides. I was extremely impressed by its commitment to user privacy and transparency, and liked the fact that it didn't place data limits on its free users (or ask them for credit card deets). I'm still in the process of fully vetting Proton VPN, but so far it's a really strong contender for the No. 1 spot. Watch your back, TunnelBear.

For now, read on for Mashable's guide to the best free VPNs.

The 10 best Echo devices — which one are you buying during Black Friday?

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:00

Just like the continuous stream of new Kindles and Fire TV devices, Amazon has an ever-growing list of Echo devices — Echo Dot, Echo Show, Echo Auto, and now the Echo Spot alarm clock. Many of these devices also have multiple generations, and it's a lot to keep straight. So, we're here to help pull you out of that Echo chamber and find the best Echo devices for your smart home.

Keep in mind, you don't need to buy these devices at full price. They're guaranteed to go on sale during events like Prime Day and Black Friday. During the October Prime Big Deal Days sale, we saw discounts of up to 58% on devices like the Echo Pop, Dot, and Spot. So if you are going to buy an Amazon smart home device, it's worth holding out until the next big event.

The next one is coming soon, as Black Friday falls on Nov. 29, 2024. Last week we spotted early deals that were fleeting, but we expect deals to come back around as we get closer.

What can an Echo smart speaker do? Tring out the new Echo Spot smart alarm clock. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

All Echo devices are designed to utilize Amazon Alexa's AI superpowers — it's just a matter of which form you want your Echo to take. The Echo and Echo Dot are smart speakers, which you can use for music, phone calls, calendar reminders, or news alerts. Amazon Echo Show devices, on the other hand, can do all of the aforementioned audio stuff, but they also boast colorful displays for making video calls, streaming entertainment, or managing your day. Think of Echo Shows as tiny and more affordable tablets, essentially.

Most Echo devices are designed to act as smart hubs within your home, but some Echo devices can also be taken on the road. Echo Auto brings hands-free Alexa functionality to the car, while Echo Buds and Echo Frames can travel with you anywhere.

Read on for the 10 best Amazon Echo devices of 2024 so that you can make an informed, stress-free Echo purchase.

How to watch Seahawks vs. 49ers online

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 03:00

TL;DR: Live stream Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers with NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV.

NFL Week 11 action continues with an NFC West showdown between the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers. The Niners are hoping to push past the Arizona Cardinals to top the division, while the Seahawks are in last place.

The Seahawks have lost four of their last five games, including a close loss in overtime to the Los Angeles Rams last week. The 49ers have won back-to-back games and three of their last five.

When is Seahawks vs. 49ers?

The Seattle Seahawks vs. the San Francisco 49ers takes place at 4:05 p.m. ET on Nov. 17. The two teams will face off at Levi's Stadium in San Francisco.

The game will air on FOX, where Joe Davis is expected to do the play-by-play. Greg Olsen will join him in the booth.

How to stream Seahawks vs. 49ers

The Seattle Seahawks vs. the San Francisco 49ers is available to live stream via YouTube TV or the NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV (not to mention other NFL fixtures).

Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and the NFL Network.

The NFL Sunday Ticket is an add-on for $209 per year, or four non-cancellable payments of $52.99. Sunday Ticket provides access to all NFL games, including out-of-market games and split-screen viewing.

Best streaming Services for Seahawks vs. 49ers

You have cable streaming options for this game. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Seahawks vs. 49ers on FOX.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling TV Sports Plan Get Deal

Sling TV offers its Orange & Blue package of 48 channels at $55 per month that would serve your needs for locally available NFL games. Sign up to enjoy a first-month discounted rate of $27.50.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Seahawks vs. 49ers from anywhere in the world

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of the NFL from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Seahawks vs. 49ers from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

  4. Sign in to your favorite streaming service

  5. Watch Seahawks vs. 49ers from anywhere in the world

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

  • 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 includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

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

How to watch Falcons vs. Broncos online

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 03:00

TL;DR: Live stream Atlanta Falcons vs. Denver Broncos with NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV.

NFL Week 11 action continues with a matchup between the Atlanta Falcons and the Denver Broncos. The Falcons are leading the NFC South at 6-4, while the Broncos are struggling in the AFC West at 5-5.

The Falcons have won three of their last five games, but lost last week to the New Orleans Saints. On the other hand, the Broncos have lost back-to-back games and three of their last five.

When is Falcons vs. Broncos?

The Atlanta Falcons vs. the Denver Broncos takes place at 4:05 p.m. ET on Nov. 17. The two teams will face off at Empire Field at Mile High in Denver.

The game will air on FOX, where Kevin Kugler is expected to do the play-by-play. Daryl Johnston will join him in the booth.

How to stream Falcons vs. Broncos

The Atlanta Falcons vs. the Denver Broncos is available to live stream via YouTube TV or the NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV (not to mention other NFL fixtures).

Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and the NFL Network.

The NFL Sunday Ticket is an add-on for $209 per year, or four non-cancellable payments of $52.99. Sunday Ticket provides access to all NFL games, including out-of-market games and split-screen viewing.

Best streaming Services for Falcons vs. Broncos

You have cable streaming options for this game. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Falcons vs. Broncos on FOX.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling TV Sports Plan Get Deal

Sling TV offers its Orange & Blue package of 48 channels at $55 per month that would serve your needs for locally available NFL games. Sign up to enjoy a first-month discounted rate of $27.50.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Falcons vs. Broncos from anywhere in the world

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of the NFL from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Falcons vs. Broncos from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

  4. Sign in to your favorite streaming service

  5. Watch Falcons vs. Broncos from anywhere in the world

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

  • 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 includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

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

How to watch Ravens vs. Steelers online

Mashable - Sun, 11/17/2024 - 03:00

TL;DR: Live stream Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers with NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV.

NFL Week 11 action continues with an AFC North showdown between the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers. The two division rivals are battling it out for first place with seven wins apiece. The key difference is that the Ravens have three losses on their record, where the Steelers only have two.

Both teams have won four of their last five games, but the Steelers are riding the momentum of four straight wins. Despite that momentum, the odds are favoring the Ravens and MVP candidate Lamar Jackson.

When is Ravens vs. Steelers?

The Baltimore Ravens vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers takes place at 1 p.m. ET on Nov. 17. The two teams will face off at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh.

The game will air on CBS, where Ian Eagle is expected to do the play-by-play. Charles Davis will join him in the booth.

How to stream Ravens vs. Steelers

The Baltimore Ravens vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers is available to live stream via YouTube TV or the NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV (not to mention other NFL fixtures).

Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and the NFL Network.

The NFL Sunday Ticket is an add-on for $209 per year, or four non-cancellable payments of $52.99. Sunday Ticket provides access to all NFL games, including out-of-market games and split-screen viewing.

Best streaming Services for Ravens vs. Steelers

You have cable streaming options for this game. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Ravens vs. Steelers on CBS.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling TV Sports Plan Get Deal

Sling TV offers its Orange & Blue package of 48 channels at $55 per month that would serve your needs for locally available NFL games. Sign up to enjoy a first-month discounted rate of $27.50.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Ravens vs. Steelers from anywhere in the world

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of the NFL from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Ravens vs. Steelers from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

  4. Sign in to your favorite streaming service

  5. Watch Ravens vs. Steelers from anywhere in the world

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

  • 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 includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

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

Pages

Subscribe to Page Integrity, Inc. aggregator