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How to watch Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea online for free

Mashable - Sun, 06/09/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Watch Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

It's group C teams Afghanistan and Papua New Guinea up next in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup, and we have all the info you need ahead of the match. The lineup includes captains Rashid Khan and Assad Vala and it's set to be a great game. It's the third game for both teams, and the 29th match of the tournament.

If you want to tune in to Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea?

Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup starts at 8:30 p.m. ET on June 13 / 1:30 a.m. BST on June 14. This game will take place at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, Trinidad.

How to watch Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea for free

Smartphone users in India can watch Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea, and the rest of the 2024 Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar.

This free content is technically geo-restricted to India, so to tune in elsewhere in the world you'll need to use a VPN. VPNs are tools that hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in India, meaning you can access this free content on the Disney+ Hotstar app from anywhere in the world.

Access free T20 Cricket World Cup live streams 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 India

  4. Download the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app

  5. Watch Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea in the 2024 T20 Cricket World Cup for free 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 streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch your favorite games before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Disney+ Hotstar?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing live sport on Disney+ Hotstar, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including India

  • 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 $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.

Watch Afghanistan vs Papua New Guinea in the 2024 T20 World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Bangladesh vs. the Netherlands online for free

Mashable - Sun, 06/09/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Watch Bangladesh vs. Netherlands in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

It's time for the next 2024 Men's T20 World Cup fixture and up next it's Bangladesh and the Netherlands. There's been tough competition for the Group D teams, with components so far including Nepal, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. This marks the third game for both countries, and it's set to be a great one.

If you want to watch Bangladesh vs. Netherlands in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Bangladesh vs. Netherlands?

Bangladesh vs. Netherlands in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup starts at 10:30 a.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. BST on June 13. This fixture takes place at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown, St Vincent.

How to watch Bangladesh vs. Netherlands for free

Smartphone users in India can watch the 2024 Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup for free on Disney+ Hotstar, including the latest match between Bangladesh vs. Netherlands.

This free content is technically geo-restricted to India, but anyone from across the world can access this free live stream with a VPN. VPNs are tools that hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in India, meaning you can access this free content on the Disney+ Hotstar app from anywhere in the world.

Access free T20 Cricket World Cup live streams 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 India

  4. Download the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app

  5. Watch Bangladesh vs. Netherlands in the 2024 T20 Cricket World Cup for free 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 streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch your favorite games before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Disney+ Hotstar?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing live sport on Disney+ Hotstar, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including India

  • 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 $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.

Watch Bangladesh vs. Netherlands in the 2024 T20 World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

Get lifetime access to this AI plant identifier app for just £13.33

Mashable - Sun, 06/09/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Through June 9, you can get a lifetime subscription to a Plantum Premium Plan for just £13.33 (reg. £47.13). Use this app to immediately identify plants using AI tools.

Opens in a new window Credit: Plantum Plantum AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan: Lifetime Subscription (iOS only) £13.33 at the Mashable Shop
£47.13 Save £33.80 Get Deal

Nature lovers and gardeners alike often wonder about the names and details of the plants they encounter. Whether hiking, gardening, or simply taking a stroll in the park, recognising and understanding the surrounding flora can enhance your experience of nature.

If you are interested in plants and flowers, consider the Plantum app to help you identify, learn about, and care for thousands of different species. A lifetime subscription to the Premium Plan of this plant identifier app is now on sale for only £13.33 (reg. £47.13) through June 9 for iOS users only.

The Plantum AI Plant Identifier app is designed specifically for iPhone or iPad users who are interested in plants and nature. Using advanced artificial intelligence, Plantum easily identifies various plant species. Simply take a photo of a plant and the app will provide you with instant information, including its name, characteristics, and care instructions (if it happens to be a species commonly kept at home).

Featuring more than 33,000 plant profiles and the insight of expert botanists, you'll get advice on soil selection, watering, optimal fertilising, and ideal temperature conditions right on your iPad or iPhone.

Plantum Premium can also help you care for a plant that isn't faring well with advice on how to best care for it and bring it back to health. Use the daily reminders to stay on your watering schedule and plant journal to keep tabs on what's happening with your favourite plants. It even has a built-in light meter so you can figure out the best spot to keep a new plant.

An easy tool for anyone looking to deepen their knowledge of gardening and the natural world, Plantum is on sale now. This app is only compatible with iPads and iPhones running iOS 13 and up.

Get a lifetime subscription to the Plantum AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan for just £13.33 (reg. £47.13) until June 9 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for June 9

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 22:00

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

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for June 9's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

Where did Wordle come from?

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

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

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

What's the best Wordle starting word?

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

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles used to be available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it. Unfortunately, it has since been taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times.

Is Wordle getting harder?

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

Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Large gathering of people.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no letters that appear twice.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

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

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

Drumroll please!

The solution to Wordle #1086 is...

CROWD.

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

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

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for June 9

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 21:00

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 June 9's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

What is Connections?

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

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer. If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

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

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: I'm sorry you feel that way

  • Green: Just add a little

  • Blue: Complex and deep things

  • Purple: Types of potatoes

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: Feeling Some Type of Way

  • Green: Throw Here and There

  • Blue: Things with Layers

  • Purple: ___Potato

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 Connections #364 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Feeling Some Type of Way: BITTER, SALTY, SORE, UPSET

  • Throw Here and There: PEPPER, SCATTER, SPRINKLE, STREW

  • Things with Layers: CAKE, EARTH, ONION, PLYWOOD

  • ___Potato: BAKED, COUCH, HOT, SWEET

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.

Is this not the Connections game you were looking for? Here are the hints and answers to yesterday's Connections.

iPhone users can now use Google's Magic Eraser tool. Here's how.

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 18:10

An unexpected photobomb can be hilarious, but it's often a huge bummer. That killer photo of your kid hitting a home run? Turns out someone else's toddler is running through the shot. With Google Photos's Magic Eraser tool, you can remove that traveling tyke with a tap to perfect your perfect shot.

Here's how to find and use Magic Eraser, available on iPhones running iOS 15 or older.

Total Time
  • 1-3 minutes
What You Need
  • iPhone running iOS 15 or higher
  • Google Photos app
  • Google Photos account

Step 1: Open Google Photos, select an image, and edit it.

Open your Google Photos app, sign in, and select a photo to inspect. Click the "Edit" button at the bottom of the screen to see available editing options.

Credit: Mashable Team

Step 2: Navigate to "Tools," then "Magic Eraser"

Credit: Mashable Team

Step 3: Circle or shade in the item you want erased.

Once your remove your finger from contact with the screen, Magic Eraser will edit the image automatically.

Credit: Mashable Team

Step 4: Click "Done" to save your edited image.

Credit: Mashable Team

New York Times code stolen and leaked on 4Chan — Wordle apparently included

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 16:32

The controversial image board 4Chan is back in the news this week after two big data dumps were posted on the site.

Mashable previously covered the Disney hack allegedly perpetrated by Club Penguin fans looking to retaliate against the company.

SEE ALSO: New Quest 3S headset: Did Meta just leak it in a Threads video?

Now, it appears the New York Times Company is the latest establishment to have its data leaked on 4Chan over the past week. The data allegedly includes source code to its viral Wordle game.

What data was stolen from the New York Times?

X user @vxunderground appeared to be the first to notice that 270GB of internal data connected to the New York Times was posted online. The data contains the company's internal source code and consists of more than 5,000+ source code repositories. The leak is made up of a total of roughly 3,600,000 files.

Tweet may have been deleted

According to a text file shared by the hacker, 6,223 folders were stolen from the New York Times' GitHub repository. This includes internal company IT documents and source code, which includes the popular word game that the Times acquired in 2022, Wordle.

In a statement provided to BleepingComputer, the New York Times confirmed that the company's GitHub account was breached in January 2024.

The Times says that a credential for its GitHub account was "inadvertently made available" and the company took measures to rectify the issue at the time. The New York Times also said that its own systems were not accessed in the breach and that the event did not impact the company's operations.

It is unclear if there is any connection between the New York Times breach and the Disney leak.

Disney hacked, apparently by angry Club Penguin fans

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 15:08

Disney has been hacked.

According to a new report from BleepingComputer this week, 2.5GB worth of internal company data was stolen from Disney and was partly dumped on the controversial image board site, 4Chan. The data dump includes tools used by Disney's software developers along with some of Disney's corporate and advertising plans. 

Who is behind the stolen data? It appears to be fans of the since-shuttered online game Club Penguin.

SEE ALSO: Hulk Hogan warns followers about crypto token, implies he was hacked What is Club Penguin?

Club Penguin is a massively popular online game that Disney acquired for $350 million in cash in 2007. The game was extremely popular with young people and is widely viewed as the biggest online kids community of its era.

At its peak, Club Penguin boasted around 200 million users. However, over the years, interest in the game waned and Disney shifted focus to a new 3-D version of the game, Club Penguin Island. The original Club Penguin was shut down in 2017, the same year the new Club Penguin Island was launched. Just one year later, in 2018, Disney would shut down Club Penguin Island too.

Club Penguin's most dedicated supporters have continued to keep the game alive via private servers, where fans can come together and play unofficial, emulated versions of the game. However, Disney has come down hard on creators of these games. For example, in 2022, Disney had a popular server known as Club Penguin Rewritten shut down and three people were arrested for their role in running the unofficial Club Penguin online game.

Club Penguin vs. the Mickey Mouse Club

Now, it seems some Club Penguin fans are getting their revenge on Disney.

The BleepingComputer report says that the 4Chan dump of hacked Disney Data consisted of 415 MB of old, internal Club Penguin data. This data includes emails, documents, designs, and more. This specific data, however, is fairly old, with much of the dumped material dating back to around 7 years ago.

However, it appears that Club Penguin data is only a small portion of the 2.5GB of information stolen from Disney. 

Hackers were apparently able to access Disney's Confluence server, where internal business-related Disney data is stored, using leaked credentials. The larger breach consists of much more recent material, some of which comes from this year.

According to the data reviewed by BleepingComputer, the stolen Disney data consists of internal developer tools called Helios and Communicore. Helios is a tool that provides Disney employees with the ability to create experiences based on sensors in Disney's theme parks. Communicore is a developer tool described as a messaging library for distributed applications.

The stolen documents also consist of information on a range of Disney projects as well as links to internal company websites used by Disney developers.

Disney has not made any statements about the data leak at this time.

Microsoft says 'Recall' will now be opt-in

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 12:03

After weeks of being excoriated by cybersecurity experts, Microsoft is making moves to address concerns over its new AI-powered computer history-saving feature: Copilot+ Recall.

Most notably, Microsoft is switching Recall from a default feature to one that requires a user to opt-in first. The company is making the change before Recall officially rolls out on June 18.

"We are updating the set-up experience of Copilot+ PCs to give people a clearer choice to opt-in to saving snapshots using Recall," wrote Microsoft Windows VP Pavan Davuluri in an official company update on the feature. "If you don’t proactively choose to turn it on, it will be off by default."

Response to the Recall backlash

Last month, Microsoft announced a series of new AI-powered features coming to Windows. One central feature that the company announced was Recall.

SEE ALSO: OpenAI, Google DeepMind insiders have serious warnings about AI

Recall takes constant screenshots in the background while a user uses a device. Microsoft's AI then scans the screenshots and makes a searchable archive of all the activity history that a user performed. Which websites were visited, what a user typed into forms – nearly everything is saved.

Cybersecurity experts were immediately concerned. A prominent former Microsoft threat analyst who had hands-on experience using Recall called the feature a "disaster." 

It turns out, Recall really does save pretty much everything including text passwords, sensitive financial information, private Google Chrome browser history, and more. And Recall saves it inside a database that can be easily accessed by a bad actor who gains remote control of a user's device.

Making things even worse, Recall was going to be a feature turned on by default, meaning users might not have even been aware of what was going on in the background of their device.

Thankfully, users will now have to opt-in to the feature, fully aware of what they are turning on and what Recall does.

More Recall security features rolling out too

Microsoft isn't just making Recall opt-in either. The company also announced that in order to enable Recall, users will have to enroll in Windows Hello, a security feature that requires users to sign in via facial recognition, fingerprint, or a PIN.

That same authentication will be required for a user to access or search through their Recall history timeline as well.

Plus, Microsoft says it's "adding additional layers of data protection." Recall snapshots will only be decrypted and accessible after a user authenticates. The search index database will also now be encrypted too.

Microsoft's blog post about the Recall security update also runs through a number of security-related provisions that were already built in, such as the screenshots only being available locally on the device. The feature already provided imagery to show it was being used – a Recall icon pinned to the taskbar on a user's desktop. However, many users would've likely been unaware of what the icon meant if Recall had just been on as a default.

The new opt-in option should hopefully make it crystal clear that a user is consenting to what Recall does.

At 11,000 feet up, scientists find Earth broke a scary record

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 05:30

At a federal research lab located at 11,135 feet (3,397 meters) of elevation, U.S. scientists measured a consequential record.

Due to its remoteness in the Pacific Ocean, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Mauna Loa Atmospheric Baseline Observatory, located high up in Hawaii, is tasked with taking untainted, daily atmospheric measurements. On June 6, NOAA revealed evidence that the heat-trapping gas carbon dioxide is "accumulating in the atmosphere faster than ever — accelerating on a steep rise to levels far above any experienced during human existence."

This May, atmospheric CO2 levels hit 427 parts per million, or ppm, an almost 3 ppm increase since last May (annually CO2 levels peak in May, due to natural global fluctuations) and the highest peak ever recorded. What's more, combining the increases since 2022 results in the largest two-year CO2 leap on record.

The lab's continuous record paints a clear picture of how the atmosphere has changed since the late 1950s. Yet, when added to much older air samples taken from pockets of air preserved in ancient Antarctic and Greenland ice cores, along with other environmental observations, the changes over the last 150 years or so are momentous. Atmospheric CO2 is now skyrocketing.

"Not only is CO2 now at the highest level in millions of years, it is also rising faster than ever," Ralph Keeling, the director of the Scripps CO2 Program that manages the atmosphere observing program, said in a statement. "Each year achieves a higher maximum due to fossil-fuel burning, which releases pollution in the form of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Fossil fuel pollution just keeps building up, much like trash in a landfill."

SEE ALSO: The farthest-away pictures of Earth ever taken

You can imagine that this sizable change would be impactful. Yes, CO2 is considered a "trace gas" in our atmosphere — which is dominated by nitrogen and oxygen. But it's common, in our physical reality, for low concentrations of things to have outsized impacts.

"Over the past year, we’ve experienced the hottest year on record, the hottest ocean temperatures on record, and a seemingly endless string of heat waves, droughts, floods, wildfires, and storms," NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad said in the announcement. This is part of a glaring climate change trend. "2023 was Earth’s warmest year since modern record-keeping began around 1880, and the past 10 consecutive years have been the warmest 10 on record," NASA noted.

The first graph below shows continuously rising atmospheric CO2 levels since 1958. The second puts this recent rise into perspective against the last 800,000 years.

A NOAA graph showing the monthly mean carbon dioxide measured at Mauna Loa Observatory since 1958. Credit: NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory Earth's atmospheric CO2 levels over the last 800,000 years. Credit: Scripps Institution of Oceanography

But, crucially, civilization is not inherently doomed, climate scientists emphasize. We are not hapless; we have energy choices that can limit the worst consequences of climate change, specifically by significantly limiting CO2 going into the atmosphere.

For now, this monitoring station, and others, will continue to record the hard atmospheric facts.

Tinder adds Pride profile stickers for LGBTQ users and allies

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 05:00

It's officially Pride month, and everyone, including various dating platforms, is celebrating in their own special way.

Grindr's on a cross-country bus tour (aptly named "Grindr Rides America"), Hinge released its 2024 LGBTQIA+ D.A.T.E. Report, and Tinder added five Pride profile stickers, all of which were designed by its LGBTQ staff, to help LGBTQ users and allies express their identities, show support, and connect with others. Tinder introduced Pride stickers last year, and now they're back for 2024.

SEE ALSO: LGBTQ+ pride flags explained: How inclusivity has expanded the rainbow

For many LGBTQIA individuals, dating apps have become more than just platforms to find a potential partner — they've become spaces to explore who they are and find community. According to Tinder's 2023 Future of Dating Report, over half of survey respondents (54 percent) revealed that they came out on a dating app before they told anyone in their friend group or family. Some also mentioned experiencing greater fluidity in their sexuality and gender identity over the past three years.

These Pride stickers, particularly the "My First Pride" profile sticker, give newcomers a low-pressure way to enter the community and proudly display their identity during Pride month.

Tinder's Pride profile stickers:
  • My First Pride: Attending Pride for the first time can be exciting but nerve-wracking. This sticker helps first-timers find their community and celebrate together.

  • Came Out Online: As the name implies, this sticker is like a badge of honor for anyone who's come out online and wants to proudly display it on their profile.

  • Save Queer Spaces: Our bars, clubs, and community centers are sacred. This sticker helps you connect with others fighting to preserve these spaces and show your support for the LGBTQ community.

  • Happy Pride: Whether you're an ally showing your support or a member of the LGBTQ community celebrating your pride, this sticker lets the world know you're celebrating love, diversity, and everything Pride stands for.

  • Proud Ally: This sticker is for allies of the LGBTQ community who want to show their support and solidarity.

To add a sticker to your profile, open the app and view The Pride Sticker Center.

Swipe with pride: Tinder's ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusivity

Over the years, Tinder's been rolling out features that make the app more inclusive for LGBTQ users and a safer space for everyone.

Here are some of the ways it continues to fight for inclusivity for its LGBTQ users:

  • Inclusive pronouns: With over 15 pronoun options (and you can pick up to four for your profile), Tinder's making users can express themselves authentically.

  • Traveler alert: The Traveler Alert feature gives users a heads up whenever they're entering a country that may have discriminatory laws or attitudes towards the community, so you can decide whether to hide your profile and stay safe.

  • Gender identity options: With 50+ gender identities to choose from, Tinder makes sure everyone can represent their true selves. No more boxes to check or limitations on gender expression.

  • Block contact: If someone's being a jerk, don't hesitate to block and report them. With the Block Contact feature, you can maintain a safer and more positive experience on the app by blocking and reporting any inappropriate or disrespectful behavior.

Make Dad's rockstar dreams come true with online guitar lessons for only $16

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Through June 9, grab a thoughtful last-minute gift for dad. The Guitar Lessons Training Bundle is on sale for only $15.97 (reg. $480) for Father's Day.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shutterstock The 2024 Guitar Lessons Training Bundle $15.97 at the Mashable Shop
$480.00 Save $464.03 Get Deal

Many people, dads included, have dreamt of being a rock star or musician. It's possible to learn to play the guitar from home and on Dad's personal schedule with online guitar lessons — and there's a great deal on a training bundle just in time for Father's Day.

The Guitar Lessons Training Bundle is on sale for only $15.97 (reg. $480) for Father's Day through June 9 and would make anyone's childhood rock star dreams come true without breaking the proverbial bank.

Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, this bundle offers comprehensive lessons across various genres. It has 12 courses totaling over 77 hours of guitar learning content. It's probably a safe bet to start with the Beginner Guitar Lessons Crash Course to get a handle on the fundamentals, such as reading TAB, naming notes on the fret, chords, strum patterns, and more.

When you move on to the Guitar Technique course, you'll learn twenty techniques. Ideal for anyone from beginner to advanced, the lessons progress in difficulty, covering sliding, trills, fret-tapping, and a lot more. It will even guide you to create your own style.

Other courses focus on specific genres, including jazz and blues, even Children's Songs for the Guitar, and an advanced jam method course for intermediate and advanced players looking to solo and jam. Plus, once the holidays roll around, it could be fun to dig into Christmas Songs for the Curious Guitarist to lead singalongs with family and friends.

Along with ear training, finger styling, and songwriting, this comprehensive bundle is a great place for anyone to start learning guitar.

The 2024 Guitar Lessons Training Bundle is on sale for only $15.97 for Father's Day until June 9 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

For the green thumb dads: An AI plant-identifying app he'll love for only $17

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Through June 9, get Dad a lifetime subscription to the Plantum AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan for just $16.97 (reg. $59).

Father’s Day is just around the corner, which means time is almost up to find a gift. There are a lot of great ideas that don't require time to ship. Whether your dad enjoys gardening, hiking, or simply appreciating the beauty of the outdoors, the Plantum AI Plant Identification App for iOS devices is a thoughtful gift. And right now, you can get a lifetime subscription for just $16.97 (reg. $59.99) through June 9.

If the special dad in your life is a nature lover, it's almost a given that he's wondered about certain plants or flowers he's seen while out and about. Plantum makes it easy to identify over 33,000 types of plants using the camera on your iPhone or iPad. 

Once identified, the plant profile offers information on the plant, including ideal soil selection, watering schedules, fertilizing, and recommended temperature. This info was created with the help of expert botanists, so you have all you need to identify and even care for plants.

Plantum also has other helpful features. It offers support when diagnosing and treating sick plants. It also has an integrated light meter to assist you in the placement of new plants.

Plantum only works with iOS devices using iOS 13 and higher. Updates to the app are included.

Give a unique and thoughtful gift to the green-thumbed dad in your life this Father's Day, even if it's last minute.

A lifetime subscription to the Plantum AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan for just $16.97 (reg. $59) until June 9 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Plantum Plantum - AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan: Lifetime Subscription (For iOS Only) $16.97 at the Mashable Shop
$59.99 Save $43.02 Get Deal

Gift Dad Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $25

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Through June 10, take advantage of the Father's Day flash sale to get Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $24.97 (reg. $199). This is the most recent version with all the AI updates.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $24.97 at the Mashable Shop
$199.00 Save $174.03 Get Deal

Father’s Day is fast approaching, and if your dad is a tech enthusiast or simply in need of a computer upgrade, consider giving him the gift of enhanced productivity and innovation with Windows 11 Pro. This upgraded software is a gateway to a smarter, more efficient computing experience — and it's on sale just in time to celebrate Dad.

Through June 10, you can get Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $24.97 (reg. $199). This is a great gift for that dad who can use an operating system upgrade with more modern features.

One of the popular features of Windows 11 Pro is its integration of cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies. Windows 11 Pro introduces Copilot (which replaced Cortana), an AI-powered assistant designed to streamline tasks and boost productivity. Copilot really does have a lot to offer. With natural language understanding, Copilot can assist with setting reminders, drafting emails, and even troubleshooting technical issues. 

It also features GPT-4 Turbo, which is an advanced, custom version of ChatGPT 4, which is like getting the premium paid version of ChatGPT for free. Plus, the Paint app has enhanced AI capabilities, including easily removing the background from images and creating AI-generated images via prompts.

The Microsoft Edge browser can also use its AI capabilities to summarize documents, organize tabs, and compose emails. This OS also has enhanced security and business-specific features like Windows Hello for Business.

Get Dad something he may not think to get himself while this operating system is on sale. Pick up Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $24.97 (reg. $199) until June 10 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Got a data-dedicated dad? Get him MS Visio 2021 Pro for $20

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Through June 10 only, you can get Microsoft Visio 2021 Professional for Windows for $19.97 (reg. $249) for Father's Day.

With Father's Day a minute away, getting Dad software that can help him in his day-to-day professional or personal efforts can be helpful. If he works with large or complex data, Microsoft Visio is on sale for Father's Day for just $19.97 (reg. $249) through June 10.

Visio is a diagramming tool that helps users create a wide variety of diagrams, such as flowcharts, organizational charts, floor plans, network diagrams, and more. It is designed to simplify complex information using visual representations, making it easier to understand, communicate, and analyze data.

It offers a wide array of ready-made, customizable templates that make it easier to get started. You can also choose from 250,000 shapes and generate org charts from data sources such as Excel, Exchange, and Microsoft Entra ID.

One of Visio Pro 2021's more popular features is its ability to link diagrams to real-time data. This allows you (or Dad) to visualize data dynamically, making information easier to understand and act upon. By connecting diagrams to live data sources, you can gain valuable insights and make better-informed decisions quickly.

This program also gives you template options to help brainstorm ideas via visualizing problems and mapping possible solutions.

Only available to new users, it's a thoughtful way to give the father in your life the gift of daily support.

Get Microsoft Visio 2021 Professional for Windows for $19.97 (reg. $249) for Father's Day until June 10 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Visio 2021 Professional for Windows $19.97 at the Mashable Shop
$249.99 Save $230.02 Get Deal

Make sure Dad never has to delete all his dog pics with discounted lifetime cloud storage

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Through June 9, secure your files forever with a lifetime subscription to 1TB of Koofr Cloud Storage, now just $119.99 with coupon code KOOFR (reg. $810). 

Opens in a new window Credit: Koofr Koofr Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription (1TB) $119.99 at the Mashable Shop
$810.00 Save $690.01 Get Deal

Even though your dad protested getting a dog because he said it would be too much work, now he's the most obsessed with that fur baby out of everyone, right? Naturally, that means a phone or computer full of dog pics (and maybe some pics of his kids sprinkled in there too). Give him the gift of not having to part with those precious snaps with 1TB of storage and a one-time payment for life with Koofr Cloud Storage.

Just in time for Father's Day, you can score major savings on a lifetime subscription to Koofr for just $119.99 (reg. $810) with coupon code KOOFR through June 9.

Koofr Cloud Storage provides ample space to house more than 250,000 12MP photos, 500 hours of HD video, or a whopping 6.5 million PDFs. And unlike other popular storage solutions, they're not charging you fees month after month. They offer a safe and secure spot for your data and doggy pics, with no tracking so that you can rest assured no one is snooping on your content, as files will be encrypted both during the transfer and in rest.

If you're already loyal to a certain storage account, have no fear. There's an option to connect and access your files across other accounts so that you have access to all of your data conveniently. You can access everything anywhere, anytime thanks to their easy accessibility. And tools like Koofr Duplicate Finder make sure you're saving space as they help remove duplicate files. 

Score a 1TB lifetime subscription to Koofr Cloud Storage for just $119.99 (reg. $810) for Father's Day with coupon code KOOFR until June 9 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

NASA reveals why it's so hard to spot alien life — even with Webb

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 05:00

NASA suspects our galaxy may teem with trillions of planets.

Yet even with the powerful James Webb Space Telescope, it's profoundly hard to find a handful of worlds that may harbor even hints of life.

The prospect of using Webb, which can peer into the atmospheres of planets beyond our solar system (exoplanets) to make such an unprecedented discovery, has stoked public curiosity and scientific scrutiny. Indeed, it's an exciting endeavor. Recently, NASA scientists weighed in on the significant challenges ahead in finding evidence of life, called biosignatures, in a distant world's atmosphere — such as a cocktail of molecules almost certainly produced by organisms (like oxygen, methane, and beyond).

"Discovery of life on an exoplanet will likely require a large set of unambiguously detected biosignatures, data from multiple missions and observatories, and extensive atmospheric modeling efforts, a process likely taking years," Knicole Colón and Christopher Stark, both Webb scientists at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, explained in a new blog post.

SEE ALSO: NASA scientist viewed first Voyager images. What he saw gave him chills.

Compelling observations from the most powerful and advanced space telescope, orbiting 1 million miles from Earth, would be a crucial factor in the effort to find elusive life among the stars. Yet there are major hurdles ahead.

An artist's conception of the rocky, Earth-sized exoplanet TRAPPIST-1 e, located 41 light-years from Earth. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech The challenges of finding life with Webb

The crux of the challenge is the difficulty of not just finding planets that could harbor life as we know it — which implies temperate, rocky, Earth-sized worlds that could harbor liquid water — but also detecting and looking into their profoundly distant, and faint, atmospheres.

Crucially, to peer into such a far-off atmosphere, a planet needs to be in the perfect orientation from our perch in the galaxy, transiting in front of its star so Webb can observe how this light filters though its atmosphere — ultimately revealing the chemicals there. This limits Webb to planets that are situated "edge-on" to us, similar to how you view a flying frisbee.

So far, scientists have confirmed finding 5,638 exoplanets (as of early June 2024), and 30 of these edge-on planets are Earth-sized, rocky, and orbiting in habitable zones — where liquid water could exist. These are intriguing candidates upon which to look for hints of life.

"Searching for biosignatures (biologically produced gases) is extraordinarily difficult, but also an exciting endeavor."

But sleuthing out an atmosphere will take patience, and likely years of observing. A planet's atmosphere blocks just some 0.02 percent or less of its star's sunlight, meaning that finding an atmosphere's existence at all requires careful viewing and multiple looks.

Take the planet LHS 1140 b, a rocky super-Earth about 1.7 times the size of Earth, located 49 light-years away. Astronomers estimate that attempting to detect "potential biosignatures" there would require observing 10 to 50 transits in front of its star, equating to 40 to 200 hours on the Webb telescope. "Given that Webb cannot view the LHS 1140 system year-round because of the system’s location on the sky, it would take multiple years if not close to a decade to collect 50 transit observations of LHS 1140 b," the NASA researchers explained.

"Searching for biosignatures (biologically produced gases) is extraordinarily difficult, but also an exciting endeavor," they added.

A simulated example of how Webb might view potential biosignatures on a distant planet. Different molecules absorb different spectrums of light, revealing their presence. Credit: NASA / ESA / Leah Hustak (STScI) Before its launch, technicians work on the James Webb Space Telescope's mirror. Credit: NASA / Chris Gunn

In the coming years and decades, exoplanet scientists and astrobiologists won't simply look at rocky worlds for potential hints of life, but rocky worlds they theorize could be blanketed in oceans, known as Hycean planets. As we know on Earth, life thrives in oceans; these worlds, if they exist, would be tantalizing places to look for potential biosignatures. The planet K2-18 b, discovered in 2015, could be such a place — though water hasn't been definitively detected there yet. In 2023, scientists suggested that the potential biosignature dimethyl sulfide, produced by plankton on Earth, could be present in this world's atmosphere. But the NASA researchers note "the potential dimethyl sulfide signal is too weak for a conclusive detection in the current data."

Webb, with a giant 21-foot mirror that catches loads of distant light, may never definitively find a biosignature. But its unprecedented look into distant worlds — revealing what many exoplanet atmospheres contain — could be invaluable. Combined with the observation of forthcoming space instruments, such as the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope (currently being built), scientists may collect the data they need to propose that a planet has compelling evidence of biosignatures.

Then, of course, that bold claim will visit the halls of peer-reviewed science around the world, subject to the bright light of intensive scientific scrutiny. It'll be an exciting, though grinding, ride.

For now, the science is indisputable.

"At the time of writing, there is only one known habitable and inhabited planet — Earth!" NASA's scientists emphasized.

Our top 4 robot vacuums for carpet and rugs, tested

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 05:00

UPDATE: May. 11, 2024, 5:00 a.m. EDT Two top picks in this story have shifted after senior shopping reporter Leah Stodart was able to hands-on test CES 2024 releases from Roborock and Eufy in her own home.

Nearly any robot vacuum can sufficiently clear a tile or hardwood floor of the hair and crumbs blowing across it like tumbleweeds. But for a robot vacuum to work on carpet, much more suction power and concentrated airflow is required to uproot the debris embedded in those fibers.

Do robot vacuums work on carpet?

Yes, several robot vacuum cleaners do a pretty phenomenal job on carpet and rugs. In fact, the best robot vacuum brands like iRobot, Roborock, Eufy, and Shark have been mastering the art for several years, particularly honing in on pet hair pickup and combatting hair tangling in the brush.

For homes with varying floor types and a notable amount of foot traffic, buying the cheapest robot vacuum you can find will likely create more hassle than it's worth. Every time that bot gets stuck on a rug corner or welcomes you home to pet hair still visibly clinging to the living room carpet, you'd probably rather just do the job yourself — but rest assured that that's not an inevitable experience with every robot vacuum.

SEE ALSO: How to choose a robot vacuum in 2024: Consider these 5 features before buying

The best robot vacuums for carpet have powerful suction, of course, aided by brush roll systems designed to dig into multiple pile heights to pinch hair and large chunks while simultaneously inhaling fine debris that a weaker robot vac would pass right over. A majority of our top picks also use automatic suction adjustment to customize cleaning based on floor type, and all current picks either come with a self-emptying dock (or at least offer the option) to mitigate the frequency of trips to the trash bin.

And if a robot vacuum has mastered carpet — the hardest floor type to tackle — these models will undoubtedly ace the hard floors in your home. In 2024, most of the robot vacuums with market-leading carpet cleaning are just as advanced at mopping.

The Mashable team is on a continuous mission to narrow down those options for you. We've hands-on tested dozens of robot vacuums on several pile lengths of carpets, rugs, and bath mats in a variety of home layouts. Here are our favorites for every carpeted situation in 2024.

How to watch Zverev vs. Alcaraz in the 2024 French Open online for free

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 04:36

TL;DR: Live stream Alexander Zverev vs. Carlos Alcaraz in the 2024 French Open for free on 9Now, France TV, RTBF, ORF, or Servus TV. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

After two weeks of exciting tennis at Roland-Garros — with some surprises along the way — it's time for the much anticipated men's singles final. Alexander Zverev and Carlos Alcaraz will battle for the title, and it's a seriously tough one to call.

Both men are top seeded players — last year's Wimbledon winner Alcaraz is No. 3 and Australian Open finalist Zverev is No. 4 — and both men have notched up impressive wins on their journey to the final.

With world No. 1 Novak Djokovic out with a knee injury — potentially missing Wimbledon — this final could have implications for the upcoming Grand Slam tournaments. Can the winner go on to win Wimbledon and the US Open too?

If you want to watch Alexander Zverev vs. Carlos Alcaraz in the 2024 French Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Zverev vs. Alcaraz?

Alexander Zverev vs. Alcaraz will meet in the 2024 French Open from 9 a.m. ET on June 9.

How to watch Zverev vs. Alcaraz in the 2024 French Open for free

The 2024 French Open is available to live stream for free on the following platforms:

All of these platforms are geo-restricted to their countries of origin, but you can still access the free live streams from anywhere in the world with the help of a VPN. If you've never use one before it's really very simple. A VPN will mask your computer's IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other countries. This gives you access to free streaming platforms from anywhere around the globe.

Access free live streams of the 2024 French Open 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 Australia, Austria, Belgium, or France

  4. Visit 9Now, France TV, RTBF, ORF, or Servus TV

  5. Stream Alexander Zverev vs. Carlos Alcaraz for free 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 streaming are not free to use. They require a subscription fee or upfront payment. But leading providers have generous offers for limited free use, such as trial periods or money-back guarantees. You can take advantage of these offers to gain access to free live streams — all without spending a penny in the long run. Sure, it's a short-term fix but you'll have enough time to watch all of the 2024 French Open before reclaiming any upfront costs. And VPNs have lots of other benefits.

What is the best VPN for the French Open?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing free live streams of the 2024 French Open, 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 secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

ExpressVPN has served up a great money-saving deal in time for the 2024 French Open finals. For the sale price of just $99.95 you can get a one-year subscription — an impressive 49% discount off the usual price. The package includes three extra months completely for no charge, a year of cloud backup, and a 30-day money-back promise.

Live stream Zverev vs. Alcaraz for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Swiatek vs. Paolini in the 2024 French Open online for free

Mashable - Sat, 06/08/2024 - 04:34

TL;DR: Live stream Iga Swiatek vs. Jasmine Paolini in the 2024 French Open for free on 9Now, France TV, RTBF, ORF, or Servus TV. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

After two weeks of fast and furious tennis action, the Roland-Garros finals are here. First up for singles action is the women's final, as Iga Swiatek faces Jasmine Paolini.

It's perhaps little surprise that Swiatek has made the final. She's the world No. 1 and a three-time French Open champion. Can the Polish star make it a fourth title?

No. 12 seed Paolini has proved her mettle in getting to the final. The Italian has knocked out Elena Rybakina and teen sensation Mirra Andreeva in straight sets.

If you want to watch Iga Swiatek vs. Jasmine Paolini in the 2024 French Open for free from anywhere in the world, here's some handy information.

When is Swiatek vs. Paolini?

Iga Swiatek vs. Jasmine Paolini will meet in the 2024 French Open from 9 a.m. ET on June 8.

How to watch Swiatek vs. Paolini in the 2024 French Open for free

The 2024 French Open is available to live stream for free on the following platforms:

The above platforms are geo-blocked intrenationally, but you can access their free live streams from anywhere around the world with a VPN. If you've never used a VPN, it's simple. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you with secure servers in other countries. This allows you to bypass any geo-restrictions and enjoy free streaming platforms from around in the globe.

Access free live streams of the 2024 French Open 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 Australia, Austria, Belgium, or France

  4. Visit 9Now, France TV, RTBF, ORF, or Servus TV

  5. Stream Iga Swiatek vs. Jasmine Paolini for free 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 streaming aren't technically free to use — they incur subscription fees or upfront costs — but the leading VPN suppliers usually have incentives such as free trial periods or money-back guarantees. Simply sign up for limited time access at zero cost overall. This will give you time to watch the remainder of the 2024 French Open, not to mention other global sports events happening in that trial period.

What is the best VPN for the French Open?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing free live streams of the 2024 French Open, 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 secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

ExpressVPN has a great deal to help you enjoy the 2024 French Open finals. A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is currently on sale for $99.95 —a mega saving of 49% — but for a limited time only. This package includes three extra months of use for free, along with a year of unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Swiatek vs. Paoloni for free with ExpressVPN.

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