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After Aggro Dr1ft last year, Harmony Korine has once again made the most galaxy-brained movie of the Venice International Film Festival, Baby Invasion. A work that takes the form of a messed up livestream, the filmmaker's new video game-inspired nightmare is wildly, oppressively hypnotic, even though it eventually runs out of places to go.

The edgelords at Korine's vowel-less EDGLRD production house feel less like traditional filmmakers, more like a collective of media enthusiasts running wackadoodle experiments. Observe them from afar and you might find pretentious faux-intellectualism on the future of cinema; Korine claims that this is what movies will soon be like. It's a hard notion to take seriously.

SEE ALSO: 42 movies you'll want to see this fall

But should you choose to submit to the work regardless, you'll be treated to a stunning example of what movies can be right now, with a strong dose of eerie premonition about where the world at large might be headed — if it isn't already there.

What is Baby Invasion about?

Baby Invasion opens with a brief interview clip with a fictitious Filipina game developer — who, for some strange reason, doesn't remove her VR headset. She explains the concept for a game she created that was unfortunately leaked on the internet: a first-person-shooter (FPS) in which assailants disguise their faces with those of babies. Furthermore, its popularity on some corners of the web inspired people to go out and re-create its core concept in real life, and broadcast their crimes via livestream.

This deeply fucked-up idea is, in its entirety, the movie's premise. It takes the form of screenlife cinema, from the point of view of someone watching and interacting with one such online stream, though given that the eponymous baby invaders wear helmet-mounted cameras, the film itself may as well be a first-person shooter movie, like Hardcore Henry. Using AI facial filters (à la TikTok and Snapchat), a cult-like group dressed in horned black hoodies obscure their appearance with the trend-requisite images of baby faces, as they collect ammunition and travel between various Florida mansions in a covert van.

The screen is filled with a Twitch-like scrolling community chat on the left-hand side (in various languages, and with its own memes and internal lingo), alongside graphics and other statistical displays. However, at very few points is the actual audio of this stream ever heard. Instead, it's overlaid with an extremely lengthy, constantly morphing rave track by producer Burial, accompanied by whispers about a rabbit-like creature. As the film's parameters become clear, so too does that of the streamers, who point their guns at wealthy hostages for fun and — it would seem — commit grisly murders just off-screen.

"Crimson towel!" numerous viewers type into the chat, referring to the blood-soaked face coverings over filmed bodies strewn about, as though this were some familiar trope or community reaction. The assailants' baby disguises may be strange, but they're hardly the most perverse part of the whole affair: that would be the casual cruelty and dehumanization on display in the stream, towards women in particular, which becomes part of the movie's self-reflexive point.

Baby Invasion taps into distinctly modern forms of violence

As with the video game influences in Aggro Dr1ft, Korine appears fixated with the collision of gaming and real-world violence. Of course, the idea that video games are some root cause of violent outbursts has long been exaggerated, but the movie, like video games themselves, exists in a violent world that adopts the language of mass media. More tame real-world examples include video creators impersonating Grand Theft Auto, and streamers pretending to be video game characters (specifically NPCs or "non-playable characters") and accepting input via emojis.

Unfortunately, this adoption of gaming language has a darker side. For instance, NPC has become an epithet meant to imply someone is devoid of personality or humanity, which is the next logical step in an online culture intent on dehumanizing its targets. In Baby Invasion, distressed hostages immediately have their reactions screencapped and turned into memes, reducing their plight to content meant for easy consumption. The closer they are to being killed, the more filters are applied to their person, obscuring their humanity.

The more the movie lingers in this first-person perspective, the more it disturbingly places viewers in the mindset of such terrorists, and in doing so, Baby Invasion calls to mind real mass shootings and violent crimes which have been livestreamed — the Christchurch mosque shooting that was streamed live on YouTube and Facebook, and a Michigan murder that was broadcast on Facebook are just two examples.

If there's something missing from Baby Invasion, it's the actual, sickening outcomes of the crimes themselves. The victims are living, breathing people in one moment, gone the next, with the actual act of execution having been obscured. Perhaps it's a violation of the guidelines of the fictional streaming platforms of the film themselves, but this missing piece is thematically vital too. Should we, as viewers, want to see the complete picture? Without realizing it, we might be complicit in Korine's portrait of a world gone mad as soon as we realize there's more to the story, and something we're prevented from seeing.  

Baby Invasion is an arresting experience — up to a point

The film is also self-reflexive about who its audience is, and who the participants in the stream might be. A small window pops up on occasion, with teens in colorful skull masks watching the stream, as though it were from their vantage (or on their screens) that the film was playing out. Not only does the movie dictate who its audience is — in terms of their macabre desires, and how they mold themselves — but it speculates on who the shooters might be in the strangest fashion. The stream boots up with an EDGLRD logo. The shooters wear EDGLRD insignia, and the horns they wear resemble the masks worn in Aggro Dr1ft. Are they fans who might've misinterpreted that movie as a call to violence, or simply adopted its aesthetics?

Korine is just as culpable as the rest of the culture, it would seem. But this is, in a way, freeing for him as a filmmaker. It verges on offering Korine carte blanche to do, essentially, whatever he wants in the realm of cinematic debauchery. As much as the screen may be cluttered by graphics and text, there's a distinct realism to the online world we see, and how the people within it interact and operate. We don't see much of the bloodshed in the moment, though the movie does feature disturbing flashes of what appears to be separate stabbing attacks shot with a more rudimentary camera — as though this were some flashback or memory, or ghost in the machine.

However, there are times when the very reality of the film is called into question, rendering the aforementioned stabbing a potential peek into the real world from, perhaps, an unreal one. The game designer in the prologue talks about her intent to blur the virtual and real worlds, and the entrancing effect of Baby Invasion often does just that, lulling its more willing viewers into a state of arrest, to the point that even its most realistic images become mere stimuli. But then the stream takes odd turns, and the shooters find themselves in a metaverse of sorts, peeking out at the real events they perpetrate. Perhaps this is some quirk of the stream or real life "game" — we are, at the end of the day, witnessing what other viewers might see on a screen — but there are also moments where digital recreations of real environments so closely resemble the real thing that it's genuinely hard to tell the difference.

Figuring out the distinction (or even wanting to) is sort of irrelevant. Baby Invasion doesn't exactly have a plot beyond the shooters' violent depravity, and so there's only so long one can be swept up in its techno madness, despite its mere 80-minute runtime. However, that it takes these detours at all is terrifying enough, and provides just enough room for speculation. In a movie where desensitization lies at the root of everything, the notion of whether something feels real (regardless of whether it is) becomes the most pressing question. If fiction can be made to feel like reality, then so too can reality become fiction, giving way to everything from conspiracy theories to bullets and bloodshed.

Baby Invasion was reviewed out of its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival.

The US Open broadcast suddenly cut out for DirecTV customers on Sunday evening due to contract dispute with Disney.

Disney blocked access to ESPN, ABC, and other Disney-owned channels for the roughly 11 million DirecTV subscribers after ongoing distribution negotiations went sour. The blackout occurred right before the college football season opener with LSU versus USC. That the hardball tactic occurred during primetime at the US Open and right before the start of the NFL season is no coincidence since it motivates both parties to reach a deal. However, that also means when negotiations fall through, millions of customers suffer the consequences.

According to a statement from DirecTV, "Disney is forcing consumers to pay for channels they don't watch," while DirecTV wants to offer customers more flexibility in terms of the channels they wish to pay for. "Disney's only magic is forcing prices to go up while simultaneously making its content disappear," said said Rob Thun, chief content officer in the press release.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

According to a statement from Disney, they're willing to offer flexibility of channels, but "will not enter into an agreement that undervalues our portfolio of television channels and programs." Exactly, a year ago Disney pulled the same move with cable company Spectrum, which resulted in a 10-day blackout. So one thing is certain: during one of the biggest sports broadcasting moments of the year, customers are losing out.

Customers took to X to express their anger and willingness to cancel their account if it's not resolved.

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While DirecTV is the one shouldering the blame, and by extension losing customers, users called out Disney as the "root cause" and the "villains" since it's the party that owns the channels and is holding out for more money.

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Meanwhile, amidst the ongoing battle between DirecTV and Disney, streaming platforms that don't require cable subscriptions like YouTube TV and Fubo are sitting back with popcorn.

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I never imagined a dating app could make me feel guilty.

But there I was, sitting on my sofa, worrying if I was, to quote indie pop band London Grammar, wasting my young years.

It had been a difficult week, to say the least. I was sleep-deprived and my anxiety was running riot. What I needed most right then and there was a quiet, restorative night of doing nothing. I was hiding under a blanket on my sofa when my phone started flashing like a lighthouse on the horizon.

Four Hinge notifications appeared on my home screen in close succession. I had a new match named Jake. My eye scrolled downwards to see that Jake wasn't wasting any time: He wanted to meet up. Right now.

I really didn't want to do that. It was 9 p.m. and I was in my pyjamas watching Bridgerton. The last thing I wanted to do was leave the house for what felt like a booty call. My instinct was to put myself first on this night. But that came with a small kick of guilt that I was somehow failing at dating.

SEE ALSO: Why some people on dating apps just want to be 'pen pals'

I couldn't seem to shake the feeling that I was boring and a tiny bit selfish for wanting to stay home. You'll be alone forever at this rate, whispered a small voice in my head. How had a message from a stranger had this effect on me? Truth is, Jake is one of many guys in my phone asking to meet up straight after matching.

Dating app interactions are becoming increasingly fast-paced. That palpable culture shift is a reaction against the "swiping fatigue" that began to plague the dating industry in 2018. This swiping ennui resulted in daters collecting countless matches, but having low-quality interactions that didn't lead to an actual in-person date. "Breadcrumbing" — a term for daters who have interminable chats with their matches with zero intention of meeting up — became a scourge for people genuinely looking for love, not a penpal. Daters became more and more frustrated with accumulating matches who didn't seem serious about testing the waters offline.

Now the pendulum has swung so far in the opposite direction, we may have overcorrected. But we can fix this. We can bring balance back to the online dating world by being honest about preferring to chat online before meeting up IRL. If you're in need of self-care and don't feel like explaining why, then don't. If your schedule is packed, suggest alternatives like voice-noting or FaceTime. It is 100 percent OK to say no when a match wants to meet up straight away. Spare yourself the guilt, if you can.

As for me, I had nothing against Jake. But I'd had zero conversation with him, so I had absolutely no idea whether we were even a good match personality-wise. I weighed whether I wanted to expend the mental energy of explaining the reasons why I couldn't meet up right now. But, to be frank, I just didn't feel like it. I didn't have to explain anything. I ignored the request, stowed away my phone and hit play on my TV remote.

A few days later — and feeling well-rested after several nights on the sofa — I spotted a tweet that really spoke to me. Poorna Bell, an author and journalist who writes about mental health, tweeted that if a match asks to meet up with very little notice, "don't feel guilty or like you'll miss out on 'the one' if you don't. Work to your own timeline."

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"I know it’s not as simple as this but the right person will wait," Bell added. "The right person will understand you have a life and aren’t egotistical to assume you’d drop everything to meet with a random. And time with yourself even if that’s on the sofa with Netflix is as important."

I knew from talking to friends that I was far from alone in feeling this way. But Bell's tweet made me feel validated in the decision I'd made that night.

On-demand dating has been on the rise for some time. Couple that with the growing frustration with breadcrumbing and swiping fatigue and it makes sense that some people are trying to seal the deal and land a date straight away. This change in dating culture might explain why more and more daters are sliding into your inbox asking to meet up straight away.

Dating apps have also played a part in this gear-shift. Some popular apps are actively encouraging users to meet up sooner. Naomi Walkland, associate director for Europe and Middle East marketing at Bumble, told Mashable that "getting asked out on a date shortly after you have matched with someone online can sometimes be overwhelming."

SEE ALSO: People are using AI to date you

"At Bumble, we encourage people to meet as soon as you can," Walkland added. "This is one of the reasons why we have a 24-hour window for replies so that it keeps the momentum going with you and your match." After this finite period ends, the match expires and it's no longer possible to get in touch. There is the option of extending that window, particularly if you don't have "first move privileges" (a Bumble feature which allows only one person to break the ice first).

Hinge's CMO Nathan Roth echoed these sentiments. "In today’s digital world, singles are so busy matching that they’re not actually connecting, in person, where it counts," Roth told Mashable. "As the dating app that’s 'designed to be deleted,' we’re always encouraging our users to move things offline and go on a great date," Roth continued.

While dating culture has shifted to combat swiping fatigue, not all online daters are on board with the newfound immediacy.

Adele, a home healthcare assistant who prefers to use only her first name as her surname is very recognisable, told me she feels "absolutely terrified, with a side of suspicion" when a match wants to meet up straight away.

She does not, however, feel pressured to meet up. "Especially with some of the horror stories you see, as well as my own experiences with online dating, my safety and comfort is the first thing I think of," Adele said. "If they immediately push to meet and don't even have like, a brief chat online first then I absolutely won’t go meet them."

She does a "full vetting first" and prefers to see their Facebook and Instagram profiles before meeting up. "I've been out with quite a few guys via online dating and the nice, reasonable ones have completely understood that when you’re a lone woman going to meet a stranger for a date, you want to be as safe as possible," she added. "My advice would be: If they have an issue with you saying no to meeting immediately then just steer well clear. Anyone worth seeing would understand."

Sam Espensen, a spirits producer, used to feel pressured by matches, particularly when the other person is persistently pushing to meet up. She did say yes once, but then cancelled a few hours before the date. "My Spidey Sense was tingling and it turned out to be correct — the person in question turned out to be majorly flawed," she said, clarifying that they were "aggressive and stalkery and wouldn’t take no for an answer and refused to understand why women would be nervous about meeting someone straight away."

She offered some great advice for anyone who might also be feeling pressured.

"Step back and think about why they're pressuring you," she said. "If they really like the sound of you, they'll put some leg work in and communicate online/on the phone for a while before meeting up." She said that anyone putting pressure on you at such an early stage is likely to do so in the future. "If they're being really pushy, they probably don't think you'll agree to meeting with them after speaking online for a while first. And they may have bad intentions," she added.

If you do want to meet up with this person, you could consider telling them you're bringing a friend, Sam suggested. "Their reaction will tell you everything you need to know!"

There are other ways of "meeting" without having to take the step of meeting up in person. Some daters use WhatsApp voice notes to "pre-screen" their dates before meeting up IRL. Chatting over voice notes, if you're comfortable with it, can provide the opportunity to get a sense of your match's personality ahead of arranging a date. If your schedule is jam-packed, you could also try a quick video chat on FaceTime. Bumble also has a video calling feature so you can chat face-to-face over the app without disclosing your mobile number. If you notice a spark while voicenoting or video-chatting, try moving things into an in-person date.

Dating culture is in high-gear, but you don't need to drop everything just to keep pace. There will be times in everyone's life where meeting up immediately doesn't work. Sometimes your busy work schedule won't sync up with a match's. Other times, your calendar might be free as a bird, but you're in desperate need of downtime. The right person will understand. Don't feel bad about putting yourself first.

This article was first published in 2020 and republished in 2024.

Channin Tatum and Naomi Ackie appeared on BBC Radio 1 to play "Unpopular Opinion" with callers.

Last year, Apple ditched all of its leather accessories in favor for a new material. Called FineWoven, it was supposed to be better than leather while being environmentally friendlier.

Alas, it didn't go exactly as planned. FineWoven cases and accessories look fine new, but many users complain that they get worn out faster than leather. I've used a couple FineWoven cases and wallets for nearly a year now, and can confirm that they look pretty shoddy right now.

There's good news ahead, though. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, stock of FineWoven iPhone cases and Apple Watch bands is "at all-time lows," ahead of Apple's Sept. 9 iPhone launch event.

SEE ALSO: Apple's new M4 Macs are probably coming in November

This could mean that Apple is preparing to replace FineWoven accessories with something else; perhaps a new version of the material, or a new material entirely. It could also mean, however, that the company is merely looking to update the lineup with new colors, as well as support for the new devices it's about to launch.

A report in April said that Apple will ditch FineWoven for a different, non-leather material, but a later update to the report claimed that Apple will still produce another round of FineWoven accessories, only in new colors.

Personally, I'd like to see some sort of update to FineWoven. The first version of the material hasn't stood the test of time well, with several polls showing that the majority of consumers strongly dislikes it. Perhaps it's time for FineWoven 2.0?

The House of the Dragon Season 2 finale didn't go down particularly well with fans, but the show may be about to get its biggest critic yet: George R.R. Martin, the author of the book the series is based on, Fire and Blood.

On Friday, Martin posted a new "Not a Blog" entry in which he talked about Siesta in Sante Fe, during which a giant marionette called Zozobra is burned as a way of "devouring the darkness."

SEE ALSO: 'House of the Dragon' Season 3 predictions: What's next?

"Believe me we need that, more than ever before," wrote the author. "The world, the country, and yes, certainly me. This has not been a good year for anyone, with war everywhere and fascism on the rise… and on a more personal level, I have had a pretty wretched year as well, one full of stress, anger, conflict, and defeat."

Featured Video For You House of the Dragon Season 1: Everything you need to remember about Season 1 in 60 seconds

Martin went on to say that he plans to talk more about this in future blog entries — and that he'll also be sharing his thoughts on House of the Dragon.

"I do not look forward to other posts I need to write, about everything that’s gone wrong with HOUSE OF THE DRAGON… but I need to do that too, and I will," Martin wrote. "Not today, though."

Yikes. This is particularly notable because the language Martin uses is fairly blunt. When speaking about Game of Thrones' ending in the past he's explained that he wished it could have gone on for longer, but he's typically avoided giving his own personal opinion about the show.

If we had to guess, we'd say Martin's most likely to have some things to say about what's gone on behind the scenes of House of the Dragon — maybe some of the logistics that caused a key battle to be pushed into Season 3, leaving Season 2 on a cliffhanger, for instance.

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for September 2 SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer hints for September 2 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Order in the court!

These words are more commonly heard across the pond.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

The answers all relate to noble titles.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Titles.

NYT Strands word list for September 2

• Viscount

• Queen

• Knight

• Duchess

• Esquire

• Titles

• Baron

• Earl

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

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

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

Apparently, Boeing's troubled spaceship isn't done giving NASA some brain teasers while it's still in space. 

Starliner's commander, astronaut Barry "Butch" Wilmore, asked Houston mission control on Saturday why the test capsule had started emitting strange noises from a speaker. At first the sounds weren't audible, then Wilmore, 61, captured a better recording: an unnerving, perpetual blooping, similar to the pulse of a submarine's sonar ping. 

"I'll let y'all scratch your heads and see if you can figure out what's going on," Wilmore said in his Southern drawl over the radio. 

Flight controllers didn't seem to immediately know the cause or source of the noise. Neither NASA nor Boeing, the spacecraft's developer, responded to questions from Mashable on Sunday regarding the sounds, and it was unclear whether the issue persisted. The only unusual thing Wilmore had observed at the time of the communication was the sound transmitted over the speaker. No other problems or weird configurations were happening within the capsule, he said. 

SEE ALSO: 2 women lose their ride to space in Boeing Starliner fallout Boeing's Starliner experienced propulsion problems during its crewed testflight in June 2024. Credit: NASA

Though the U.S. space agency recently decided Wilmore and his crewmate, pilot Sunita "Suni" Williams, would not return on Starliner but a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule, Starliner remains docked at the International Space Station some 250 miles above Earth. It is expected to stay there until departing for a robotic landing without passengers no earlier than 6:04 p.m. ET Friday, Sept. 6. 

If all goes as planned, Starliner will touch down at the Army's White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico about six hours later. A system of parachutes and air bags should cushion its drop over the desert shortly after midnight on Sept. 7.

The pulsing sounds are the latest in a series of quandaries related to Starliner, which launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, in June for its first test flight carrying people. The issue was first reported by Ars Technica on Sunday, based on a posting of the International Space Station chatter in a NASASpaceflight.com forum. The authenticity of the recording, which can be found in the forum, has not been independently verified. 

Boeing Starliner's test pilots Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams will return to Earth on a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule in February 2025. Credit: NASA

Veteran astronauts Wilmore and Williams were in limbo this summer while NASA leadership and Boeing managers discussed whether Starliner was safe to bring them home. During their flight to the space station, Starliner experienced propulsion issues. 

What should have been an eight-day stint in space for them will now stretch for eight months. Both will be incorporated as regular crew members of Expedition 71/72 through February 2025 and will return with the agency’s Crew-9 mission. In the fallout, two female astronauts who were originally assigned to Crew-9 — Zena Cardman and Stephanie Wilson — lost their ride to space to free up a pair of seats for Wilmore and Williams to come home. 

"I'll let y'all scratch your heads and see if you can figure out what's going on."

Getting Starliner through its testing phase has been a relentless battle for Boeing, though its representatives have not always been forthcoming on why the program has suffered so many setbacks. A string of issues has spanned a decade. 

After the Space Shuttle retired in 2011, NASA hitched all of its rides on Russian rockets to the space station, costing the United States tens of millions of dollars per ride. Some considered it a national embarrassment. 

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NASA hired Boeing and SpaceX to build commercial spaceships to carry astronauts to and from the station in 2014. While SpaceX's capsule went into service four years ago, Boeing's Starliner has yet to obtain certification for regular flight operations. 

NASA never intended to have all its eggs in Elon Musk's basket and says Starliner is still crucial to have as a backup. Ken Bowersox, associate administrator for space operations, hinted that the agency expects Starliner to fly again.

"We’ve learned a lot about the spacecraft during its journey to the station and its docked operations," he said in a statement. "We also will continue to gather more data about Starliner during the uncrewed return and improve the system for future flights to the space station."

TL;DR: Score the Turonic GM5 massage gun for $105.99 (reg. $189.97) and get powerful deep-tissue relief anytime.

Muscle soreness can really put a damper on your day, especially if you’re pushing your limits in the gym or dealing with the stress of a long workday. But what if you could access that post-massage feeling without booking an appointment with a masseuse and spending a fortune?

The Turonic GM5 Massage Gun is available for $105.99, a 44% discount. This massager is designed to offer deep-tissue relief right at home, providing a convenient way to support your recovery and relaxation.

The Turonic GM5 is built to target sore muscles with precision, offering deep-tissue massage therapy that you can tailor to your needs with multiple attachments and adjustable speed settings. You can customize the intensity to suit your comfort level, whether you’re looking to ease post-workout discomfort, address stiff shoulders from sitting at a desk, or just find a way to relax after a long week.

Convenience is also a key feature of the GM5. Its lightweight and portable design makes it easy to take with you, whether you’re traveling or just moving from room to room. The long-lasting battery is designed to give you ample power for multiple sessions, and its quiet operation ensures you can use it without disturbing others.

On sale for $105.99, the Turonic GM5 Deep-Tissue Massage Gun offers an accessible option for anyone looking to support their well-being.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Turonic Turonic GM5 Deep Tissue Massage Gun $105.99 at the Mashable Shop
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TL;DR: Get the Treblab HD77 Bluetooth speaker for just $51.99 (reg. $79.97) and enjoy booming sound wherever life takes you.

When your playlist deserves more than just a weak smartphone speaker, you need a high-quality, durable sound system that can keep up with your on-the-go lifestyle. Whether you're hiking, biking, or just chilling at the beach, the Treblab HD77 wireless Bluetooth speaker is built to handle it all. For a limited time, you can get one in blue or black on sale for $51.99.

This rugged, water-resistant speaker is made for outdoor enthusiasts who need their music to keep pace. With 25W of stereo sound and dual subwoofers, this speaker ensures you feel every beat, even if you're deep in the woods or catching rays by the pool. It’s got a 20-hour battery life, so you won’t be tethered to a charger while your adventure continues. Plus, with its shockproof design, a few bumps or drops won’t kill your vibe.

Pair it up with your phone, and you’ve got yourself a reliable audio companion for any occasion. Need to make a call? The built-in microphone’s got you covered. And if you want to double the sound, connect a second Treblab HD77 for an even bigger audio experience. Compact yet powerful — and half the price of similar portable speakers — this party speaker is your ticket to making every moment memorable with the right soundtrack.

Regularly $79.97, grab the Treblab HD77 wireless Bluetooth speaker for $51.99 at 34% off and turn up the volume on your next adventure.

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Opens in a new window Credit: TREBLAB TREBLAB HD77 - Wireless Bluetooth Speaker (Blue) $51.99
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TL;DR: For just $79.99, you can score a refurbished Samsung Chromebook 4 — a computer perfect for everyday tasks or as a backup.

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Why spend hundreds when you can get a solid, reliable laptop for just $80? The Samsung Chromebook 4 is a no-brainer if you’re looking for an affordable, new-to-you device that covers all the basics. Whether it’s for school projects, a backup for your travels, or just a second laptop to have around the house, this Chromebook gets the job done without making a dent in your wallet.

Mashable previously featured this Chromebook in its guide to the best cheap laptops. At the time, we said it was the perfect companion for your work laptop. It's a reliable, no-nonsense device.

This budget-friendly and refurbished Chromebook doesn’t skimp on features. It’s compact and lightweight, with an 11.6” display that’s perfect for on-the-go use. Plus, it’s built to withstand the bumps of daily life with military-grade durability. You’ll also appreciate the ultra-fast Gigabit Wi-Fi that keeps you connected no matter where you are.

When it comes to security, the Chromebook 4 offers multiple layers of built-in virus protection, so you can surf the web with confidence. And with up to 12.5 hours of battery life, you won’t be constantly searching for a charger. To top it off, this device is Google Assistant-enabled, adding an extra layer of convenience to your day.

Whether it’s your main device, a backup, or something for your kids to play with, it’s a purchase that’s easy to justify. It has a grade "B" refurbished rating, which means it may have some minor scuffs on the exterior, but it's been tested and certified to work like new.

At just $79.99, this refurbished Samsung Chromebook 4 is a steal — check out this deal for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Get equipped for the school year with a refurbished 9th-Gen iPad and Beats Flex headphones for 39% off at $299.99 (reg. $499).

As the school year approaches, it’s time to gear up with the tech that will make all the difference, for you or your kid. Whether you’re handling your own coursework or ensuring your child is set up for success, this iPad and Beats Flex bundle could be a great option. Discounted to $299.99, you’ll get two must-have devices that help you stay productive in class and relax after a long day of studying.

The 9th-generation iPad is a versatile tool for students of all ages. With 64GB of storage, there’s plenty of room for textbooks, assignments, and essential apps. The 10.2-inch Retina display ensures that everything from study materials to creative projects looks sharp and vibrant, keeping you or your child engaged during those study sessions. And with Wi-Fi connectivity, you can seamlessly stay connected with online classes, research, and family.

Complementing the iPad, the Beats Flex headphones are ideal for both learning and leisure. Whether you’re listening to a lecture, attending a virtual class, or just enjoying music between study breaks, these wireless headphones deliver quality sound in a comfortable, portable package. Their flexible design means they easily fit into just about any backpack or school bag.

The refurbished status of this bundle is "A"-rated, meaning it is in near-mint condition, and that you may see minimal to no signs of exterior damage.

Make this school year a success with the right tools in your hands — and ears.

For a limited time, get this Apple iPad 9th-Gen and Beats Flex Wireless Headphones refurbished bundle on sale for $299.99 (reg. $499).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad 9th Gen (2021, 64GB) + Beats Flex Wireless Headphones — Refurbished Bundle $299.99 at the Mashable Shop
$499.00 Save $199.01 Get Deal

If you've ever quoted comedian Brian Jordan Alvarez's web series The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo or sung along to his viral hit "Sitting," rejoice! Alvarez has brought his comedic sensibilities to FX, where he created and stars in the new show English Teacher.

Alvarez (who also wrote and directed several episodes) plays Evan Marquez, an English teacher at Austin's Morrison-Hensley high school. He's prone to taking stands for what he believes in, and even more prone to screwing up his moral crusades. These gaffes, combined with A-plus casting and a richly developed high school setting, make English Teacher the freshest, funniest sitcom of the year so far.

SEE ALSO: 40 shows we can't wait to see this fall What's English Teacher about? Sean Patton, Stephanie Koenig, and Brian Jordan Alvarez in "English Teacher." Credit: Steve Swisher/FX

English Teacher gets off to a foreboding start: Evan is under investigation after a homophobic parent complained about him kissing his boyfriend Malcolm (Jordan Firstman) — now ex — in front of students. That an external force is trying to govern Evan's teaching becomes a common thread throughout English Teacher, as the show addresses several serious real-world issues over the course of its season, including gun safety in schools and LGBTQ rights.

Don't let the heaviness of these topics fool you, though. English Teacher is no after-school special. Instead, the series highlights not only the ridiculousness of the problems Evan faces, but also the ridiculousness of Evan's own reactions, each of which lead to some comedically misguided escalations. An attempt to cancel a performance where football players dress up as cheerleaders leads Evan to hold a drag seminar taught by local drag queen Shazam (played by drag superstar Trixie Mattel). The rise of a school gun safety club prompts Evan to assign the world's most misguided essay on Crime and Punishment.

SEE ALSO: 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Season 2 review: Darkness looks good on Middle-earth

Nothing here goes according to plan, nor does English Teacher ever take the predictable route. Look no further than a possible romance with substitute teacher Harry (Langston Kerman), which does not play out the way audiences (or Evan himself) might think. While that storyline fades away rather abruptly in the latter half of the six English Teacher episodes sent to critics for screening, it's just one example of how the series prefers to chart its own path.

English Teacher has a perfect cast. Stephanie Koenig and Sean Patton in "English Teacher." Credit: Steve Swisher/FX

English Teacher, like The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo, sets a particular tone and pace right off the bat. There's a shorthand intimacy between these characters who have known each other for years. They talk super quickly, even over each other, enveloping us in their world with just a few lines. Quick asides, such as an "Oh, I love this song!" delivered mid-principled tirade, often tell us all we need to know about someone.

As the show's creator, Alvarez naturally excels at mastering this tone, delivering an assured lead performance that makes Evan's frustrations with and passion for teaching both believable and hilarious. His fellow castmates match him every step of the way. Stephanie Koenig shines as Evan's best friend and fellow teacher Gwen; you can tell she and Alvarez are longtime collaborators from the sheer ease and specificity of their comedic chemistry. Other standouts include Sean Patton as often inappropriate (yet surprisingly insightful) gym teacher Markie, and Enrico Colantoni as frazzled Principal Grant, who all but runs the other way when he sees Evan coming.

The charm of English Teacher's cast and characters extend to Morrison-Hensley's students, played by a large ensemble of young actors including Aliyah Bah (aka Aliyah's Interlude), Romy Mars, Ben Bondurant, and Ivy Wolk. While Morrison-Hensley's faculty may not always understand their students — "They're not into being woke anymore," Evan laments — English Teacher takes great pains to do so, building out the students beyond simple high school archetypes. Their screen time may be limited, but these students still feel like they have rich inner lives. In some cases, they could even be smarter and more well-adjusted than the adults they're meant to be learning from.

Having such a detailed ensemble grounds English Teacher in the reality of high school, even if its plotlines are mostly heightened for comedy's sake. And just like its school-set compatriot Abbott Elementary, English Teacher still has quite a bit to say about the good public school teachers do, in spite several encroaching problems that may hinder them. That messaging, and the show's breakneck pacing and killer dialogue, send English Teacher and Alvarez rocketing to the top of the sitcom class.

English Teacher premieres Sept. 2 at 10 p.m. ET on FX, with new episodes every Monday. Episodes stream the next day on Hulu.

Film Festival Season is upon us! From Venice to Toronto to New York City to Fantastic Fest, Mashable will be hitting each one to bring you the best and brightest highlights from slates that include hundreds of contenders.

Whether you're wondering what powerful film might hook Oscar gold this winter, looking for a totally bonkers movie to thrill over with friends, or seeking a hidden gem of cinema splendor, we're here on the ground at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival to help. Last year, we reviewed such awe-inspiring offerings as Hayao Miyazaki's poetic opus The Boy and the Heron, the gonzo comedy Dicks: The Musical, and Alexander Payne's winsome holiday dramedy The Holdovers, which featured our favorite one-line wonder of the year.

This year, TIFF has us looking forward to new films from Pedro Almodóvar, Will Ferrell, Mike Flanagan, Luca Guadagnino, Marielle Heller, and Pharrell Williams. And there's even more in store we can't wait to discover.

Here are the 15 films you should know about from TIFF 2024.

Will & Harper Will Ferrell and Harper Steel go on a road trip. Credit: TIFF

The titular duo of this road trip documentary is responsible for such big-swing comedies as Casa de mi Padre, A Deadly Adoption, and Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga. But long before all of those, they were friends building a bond, working at Saturday Night Live.

Will Ferrell and Harper Steele have known each other for decades. But when, at 61, Harper came out as trans and transitioned into living openly as a woman, the time came for the two to reconnect. A 16-day road trip across America was not only a way for Will to better understand Harper, but also a chance for Harper to revisit dive bars, sports arenas, and other once-treasured spaces that might not be as welcoming now. Together, they explore friendship, privilege, and what it means to be trans in the U.S. And while the content can be heavy, under the director of Josh Greenbaum, who helmed the supremely hilarious Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, the tone is light, accessible, and ultimately resoundingly heartwarming.

Starring: Will Ferrell and Harper Steele

How to watch: Will & Harper debuts on Netflix Oct. 4.

The Substance

Out of its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, The Substance scored rave reviews and much buzz about its revolting spectacle. But we'd expect nothing less from Coralie Fargeat, the viciously brilliant writer/director behind the stylish and shattering Revenge.

Tackling Hollywood's dangerous obsession with looks, The Substance stars Demi Moore as a star forced out of the industry due to her age. When a shady scientific breakthrough promises a younger, "better" version of herself, she's quick to push the plunger. But these two halves must take turns, living one week at a time. And the beguiling go-getter Sue (Margaret Qualley) isn't much for waiting her turn.

Starring: Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, Dennis Quaid, Hugo Diego Garcia, Joseph Balderrama, Oscar Lesage

How to watch: The Substance hits theaters Sept. 20.

Piece by Piece

American music mogul Pharrell Williams has given audiences a barrage of hit songs, collaborated with some of the biggest artists in rap, and won 13 Grammys (so far). It's about time someone told his story. But a bog-standard bio-doc of talking heads and concert footage was never going to fully grasp the creativity of this icon. So, Academy Award–winning documentarian Morgan Neville (20 Feet from Stardom) brings a bold new angle by re-enacting this story with Lego-inspired animation.

Williams not only lends his voice, but also produces, welcoming a flood of famous friends and collaborators all re-imagined as mini-figs. It looks bonkers, and we're absolutely stoked to see it.* 

Starring: Pharrell Williams, Jay-Z, Missy Elliott, Timbaland, Gwen Stefani, Justin Timberlake, Busta Rhymes, Snoop Dogg, N.O.R.E., Pusha T., Daft Punk, and Kendrick Lamar

How to watch: Piece by Piece opens in theaters Oct. 11. 

The Mountain

If you loved Hunt for the Wilderpeople, you won't want to overlook The Mountain. Rachel House, who played the Terminator-like social worker in Wilderpeople, makes her directorial debut with a charming coming-of-age adventure that also features misfit teens trekking into the New Zealand wild.

When 11-year-old Māori girl Sam (Elizabeth Atkinson) learns her cancer has returned, she escapes the children's hospital to climb Taranaki Maunga, hoping that proving herself to the mountain will cure her. Along the way, she befriends the fearful but caring new kid in town Mallory (Reuben Francis) and the passionate environmentalist Bronco (Terrence Daniel), both of whom reluctantly agree to be her sherpas. Together, they set forth on a quest that is at times silly, at times suspenseful, but always heartfelt.

Starring: Elizabeth Atkinson, Terence Daniel, and Reuben Francis

Daniella Forever Henry Golding and Beatrice Grannò play lovers in "Daniella Forever." Credit: TIFF

Spanish director Nacho Vigalondo has a unique skill for blending genre with mind-bending storytelling. He broke through stateside in 2007 with the deeply gnarly horror-thriller Timecrimes. And though he's contributed to scary anthologies like The ABCs of Death and V/H/S Viral, you might know him best as the writer/helmer of Colossal, the superbly surreal comedy that starred Anne Hathaway as a woman who's accidentally manifesting a rampaging kaiju over Seoul.

Now, Vigalondo has teamed up with Henry Golding for a tale about grief and lucid dreaming. To move on after the death of his girlfriend, Nicolas (Golding) joins a sleep trial that reunites him with some version of his beloved Daniela (Beatrice Grannò). We have no idea where this could go, and that's part the appeal of Vigalondo's work. The other part is humor that is dark, blistering, and unapologetic. 

Starring: Henry Golding, Beatrice Grannò, Aura Garrido, and Nathalie Poza

The Life of Chuck Tom Hiddleston stars in "The Life of Chuck." Credit: TIFF

Horror auteur Mike Flanagan has made his name with harrowing movies like Doctor Sleep, Hush, and Gerald's Game, along with absolutely haunting miniseries for Netflix, including The Haunting of Hill House, Midnight Mass, and The Fall of the House of Usher.

For his latest, he's adapting a Stephen King novella that's not a horror story. Tom Hiddleston stars as Chuck Krantz, a seemingly ordinary accountant who has an unusual impact on those who see his smiling face. One of the more curious world premieres at TIFF, The Life of Chuck has us very intrigued. 

Starring: Tom Hiddleston, Mark Hamill, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Karen Gillan, and Jacob Tremblay

Queer A man snaps a photo in "Queer." Credit: TIFF

Director Luca Guadagnino has awed critics and audiences with his distinctive romances, from the gay drama Call Me By Your Name to the coming-of-age cannibal tale Bones and All and the love-triangle thriller Challengers. Now, he re-teams with Challengers scribe Justin Kuritzkes to adapt American author William S. Burroughs' 1985 novel.

Queer stars Daniel Craig as an American expat who wanders around the gay bars of postwar Mexico City seeking thrills and maybe himself. Guadagnino's past work alone is reason to line up for Queer, but the collaboration with Kuritzkes and Craig has us absolutely giddy. 

Starring: Daniel Craig, Lesley Manville, and Jason Schwartzman

Heretic

A24 teams with A Quiet Place scribes Scott Beck and Bryan Woods for a new horror movie that's already got tongues wagging thanks to a tantalizing teaser.

When two young missionaries (Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East) go door-to-door to preach the values of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they seek to save souls. But can they save themselves when a welcoming home proves to be a deadly snare? If Paddington 2 taught us anything, it's not to trust a smiling Hugh Grant! 

Starring: Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, and Chloe East

How to watch: Heretic opens in theaters Nov. 15.

The Room Next Door

Boundary-pushing Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar has bestowed upon us such wonder as All About My Mother, The Skin I Live in, Talk to Her, and — most recently, the queer Western short Strange Way of Life. Now, he's tackling his first English-language feature with a cast that has us absolutely screaming in excitement.

Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore co-star as two writers who were close friends in their youth. As the decades have led them down different paths, Ingrid (Julianne Moore) drew from her life to write novels, while Martha (Tilda Swinton) became a journalist who focused on war. But when a strange situation leads them to reconnect, how will their relationship bloom or wither? We can't wait to find out. You had our attention at Pedro. At Tilda + Julianne, you have us seated.

Starring: Tilda Swinton, Julianne Moore, John Turturro, and Alessandro Nivola

Mistress Dispeller Wang Zhenxi shows the insides of her work in "Mistress Dispeller." Credit: TIFF

Documentarian Elizabeth Lo (Stray) takes a thorough and judgment-free look at a curious vocation in China. As the title suggests, Mistress Dispeller focuses on Wang Zhenxi, a woman whose job is to break up affairs between married men and their mistresses. What that looks like might well spark fascination. But in practice, this titular negotiator's job is far more complex than we might imagine. A mix of therapy, manipulation, and third-wheeling makes for a journey that is joltingly intimate yet humane.

You might never look a love triangle the same way again.

Starring: Wang Zhenxi

Conclave

The crackling cast alone is reason to look forward to this Edward Berger-directed psychological thriller, set amid one of the Catholic church's most sacred and secretive traditions.

When the pope dies, the college of cardinals convenes in private to elect who among them will ascend to lead the church and be God's voice on Earth. Ralph Fiennes stars as the dean, responsible for overseeing the process. But as whispers mount and politicking ignites, the secrets of these men of the cloth come to light in shocking ways. Based on Robert Harris's 2016 novel of the same name, Conclave brings tension along with nuanced performances that are as electrifying as they are divine. 

Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Lucian Msamati, Carlos Diehz, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini.

How to watch: Conclave opens in theaters Nov. 1. 

Space Cowboy People skydive in a car in "Space Cowboy." Credit: TIFF

Have you ever watched a skydiving sequence in a movie, TV show, or commercial and wondered, how did they do that?

Space Cowboy, directed by Marah Strauch and Bryce Leavitt, explores exactly that through the incredible life story of skydiving cinematographer Joe Jennings. From Jennings' humble origins as an oddball kid who relished running around outside to his rise to become the most sought-after specialty cinematographer for sky-high stunts, this documentary tenderly charts a course of risk and reward. It's not just about the specifics and safety protocols that led to the creation of award-winning ads and blockbuster spectacle. Space Cowboy also delves into the mental health struggles that even professional thrill-seeking can't ignore. 

Starring: Joe Jennings

The Order Jude Law plays an agent on the trail in "The Order." Credit: TIFF

From director Justin Kurzel (The Snowtown Murders) comes a crime thriller unearthed from a dark corner of the United States' not-so-distant history.

Based on Kevin Flynn and Gary Gerhardt's nonfiction book The Silent Brotherhood, The Order takes audiences into the 1983 FBI investigation of a band of white supremacists in the Pacific Northwest. Jude Law stars as a hardened agent who suspects that a spate of bank robberies and bombings are tied to a sinister conspiracy, dreamed up by a dangerously charismatic domestic terrorist named Robert Jay Mathews (Nicholas Hoult). Between the disturbing true story and sharp turns from Law and Hoult, this showdown is sure to leave audiences rattled.*

Starring: Jude Law, Nicholas Hoult, Tye Sheridan, Jurnee Smollett, and Marc Maron

How to watch: The Order opens in theaters Dec. 6. 

Nightbitch Amy Adams headlines "Nightbitch." Credit: TIFF

Director Marielle Heller has earned her critically heralded career by masterfully helming a string of poignant adaptations, including the coming-of-age dramedy The Diary of a Teenage Girl, the Mr. Rogers biopic A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, and the Academy Award-nominated biographical comedy Can You Ever Forgive Me? Next, she teams with six-time Oscar nominee Amy Adams for Nightbitch, the movie adaptation of Rachel Yoder's 2021 novel about a stay-at-home mom who occasionally transforms into a dog. With that premise and this pairing of talent in front of and behind the screen, Nightbitch is one of our most anticipated of the fest. 

Starring: Amy Adams, Scoot McNairy, Arleigh Patrick Snowdon, Emmett James Snowdon, Zoë Chao, Mary Holland, Archana Rajan, and Jessica Harper

How to watch: Nightbitch opens in theaters Dec. 6. 

Shell Kate Hudson and Elisabeth Moss co-star in "Shell." Credit: TIFF

Following his moving 2018 coming-of-age drama Teen Spirit, actor-turned-director Max Minghella returns with a twisted dark comedy about Hollywood's obsession with looking young and fit. Elisabeth Moss stars as an actress whose age (middle though it might be) is proving an obstacle to booking jobs. So, she turns to Zoe Shannon (Kate Hudson), a beauty and wellness CEO whose Shell brand promises renewed youth. But at what cost?

A midnight movie with a big star cast and a totally bonkers climax, Shell is sure to thrill a crowd who appreciates a bit of camp with their social commentary. 

Starring: Elisabeth Moss, Kate Hudson, Kaia Gerber, and Lionel Boyce

Apple's got a busy couple of months ahead.

The company is launching new iPhones, along with some other gadgets, on September 9. But a new report from MacRumors claims Apple will follow that up with another event in November, which will focus on the Mac.

We've already heard that Apple is planning to upgrade all of its Mac models to M4, with some of them coming later this year. Now we have a slightly more precise timeline, although MacRumors, which cites a reliable source familiar with the matter, says it's still possible for Apple to actually host the event in October, with Macs becoming available in November. That's what happened last year, with new Macs being announced on October 30, and becoming available on November 7.

At this year's event, we'll probably see a new, entry-level, 14-inch MacBook Pro sporting an M4 chip, as well as 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with M4 Pro and M4 Mac chips. Apple is also reportedly planning to launch an iMac with the M4 chip, as well as a smaller, redesigned Mac mini with M4 and M4 Pro chips. All of the devices should now come with 16GB of RAM as standard.

SEE ALSO: M4 MacBook Pro: All the rumors and leaks about the next-gen Apple laptop

Most of these devices will be similar to previous models in other aspects, but Mac mini will reportedly be far smaller, and possibly more cube-like in appearance, than the current iteration.

The M4 chip made its debut on the iPad Pro, which launched in May. It's a decent though not a massive upgrade compared to the M3 chip, but we've yet to see what the more advanced M4 Pro and M4 Max chips can do.

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 Monday, September 2, 2024:

AcrossProfessional in a toque

• The answer is chef.

"I'm not a ___" (online affirmation next to a checkbox)

• The answer is robot.

Love, in Italian

• The answer is amore.

Wards (off)

• The answer is fends.

Secret rendezvous

• The answer is tryst.

DownWoodcarving or metalsmithing, e.g.

• The answer is craft.

It's going ... going ... gone!

• The answer is homer.

Dark wood once used for drinking cups, as it was thought to neutralize poison

• The answer is ebony.

Focuses on the road?

• The answer is fords.

One might be multiple-choice

• The answer is test.

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.

TL;DR: Get a Google Drive alternative with 1TB of cloud storage space when you get a lifetime subscription to FolderFort for just £53.17 (reg. £191.16). 

Opens in a new window Credit: FolderFort FolderFort 1TB Storage Pro Plan: Lifetime Subscription £53.17 at The Mashable Shop
£191.16 Save £137.99 Get Deal

In the early days of your Google Drive, it might have felt like the free cloud storage was limitless, but inevitably it runs out. Suddenly, you have to pay a fair bit to backup your photos and save all your other files online. Plus, you have to keep paying every year to hold onto those files. Skip all that and get 1TB of storage for life while it's on sale this September.

FolderFort is a Google Drive alternative that gives you a full 1TB that you can access through any modern browser or mobile device, and you aren't paying for it every month. Get 1TB of cloud storage with a lifetime subscription to FolderFort for just £53.17 (reg. £191.16).

Reliable cloud storage for life

What makes FolderFort a solid alternative to Google Drive? How seamlessly you can upload and access your files on all of your devices. Transferring files between devices? Open FolderFort in both your browsers, then all you have to do is upload from one and download from the other. Plus, FolderFort guarantees a 99.9% uptime. 

For most people, 1TB is a lot of space, and you might end up paying for storage you'll never use if this were another cloud service. With FolderFort, you can upgrade or downgrade whenever you want. Don't pay for what you're not going to use. While we've highlighted the 1TB plan, the 250GB, 500GB, and 2TB plans are also discounted up to 72%

You can even add other people to your workspace, and each person gets their own 1GB slice of the 1TB pie.

Share across all your devices

Google Drive isn't the only place to keep all your files safe. Regularly £191.16, get a lifetime subscription to FolderFort 1TB Storage plans for £53.17 for a limited time. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

TL;DR: Unblock xHamster from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

In a lot of locations around the world, your access to porn sites like xHamster will be restricted. That's probably a good thing, but there is also something to be said for online freedom. When the time is right, you'll want to be able to access all your favorite sites. And that's when you should turn to VPNs.

If you're looking for the best way to unblock porn sites like xHamster from anywhere in the world, we have the information you need.

How to unblock xHamster for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another location. This quick and easy process bypasses geo-restrictions to secure access to porn sites like xHamster from anywhere in the world. This might sound complicated, but you can unblock your favorite porn sites in just a few simple steps:

1. Sign up for a 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 a location that supports access to xHamster

4. Visit xHamster

5. Watch xHamster content from anywhere in the world

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 unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites and then recover your investment at a later date. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it works well if you're traveling or temporarily away from home.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the top choice when it comes to unblocking porn sites like xHamster, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy

• Fast streaming 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. You can use the money-back guarantee to unblock xHamster for free from anywhere in the world.

Unblock xHamster for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream the NFL for free on 7plus, 6play, RTL, TVNZ, My5. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The popularity of the NFL has been steadily growing in the UK, and now that select games actually take place in London every season, this interest will surely continue to climb.

The problem with this situation is that a lot of new followers will be disappointed with the streaming options on offer, especially if you're aiming to save some cash this season. It's not easy to follow the NFL for free, but there is always a way.

If you want to watch the NFL for free in the UK, we have all the information you need.

What is the NFL?

The NFL is a professional American football league consisting of 32 teams, divided equally between the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC).

Each side plays 17 games in the regular season, with seven teams from each conference advancing to the playoffs. Everything culminates with the Super Bowl, a final game played between the winners of the AFC and NFC championship games.

When is the NFL?

The NFL regular season runs from September to January. The Super Bowl takes place in February.

How to watch the NFL for free in the UK

It is possible to live stream the NFL for free on these platforms:

• Australia — 7plus (select regular season games and every NFL playoff game)

• France — 6play (one game per week)

• Germany — RTL (select regular season and postseason games)

• New Zealand — TVNZ (up to three games per week)

• UK — My5 (Monday Night Football games)

These streaming services are geo-blocked, but fans in the UK can access everything with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other countries, meaning you can unblock free streaming services from around the world to watch the NFL without spending anything. The process is actually really straightforward.

Access free live streams of the NFL 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 a location with free coverage of the NFL

4. Visit 7plus, 6play, RTL, TVNZ, or My5

5. Watch the NFL for free in the UK

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) £76.70 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these deals, you can gain access to free live streams of the NFL without actually spending anything. This is clearly not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch select NFL 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 the NFL?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the NFL, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £76.70 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 the NFL for free in the UK with ExpressVPN.

Connections is the latest New York Times word game 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 August 30'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.

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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.

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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 September 2 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: Odd

• Green: Task

• Blue: "Action figure" is one

• Purple: Word for a linking system, followed by a blank

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: PECULIAR

• Green: ASSIGNMENT

• Blue: CLASSIC COLLECTION ITEMS - COIN, COMIC, RECORD, STAMP

• 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 #449 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• PECULIAR - CURIOUS, FUNNY, OFF, WEIRD

• ASSIGNMENT - JOB, POSITION, POST, STATION

• CLASSIC COLLECTION ITEMS - COIN, COMIC, RECORD, STAMP

• CHAIN ___ - LETTER, MAIL, REACTION, STORE

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.