- Help
- Google+
Despite the enthusiasm of actors in Swiffer commercials, few people are smiling at the workout that is manually mopping their floors.
If you experience similar dread when faced with vacuuming, the best robot vacuum and mop combos will cross those two chores off of your list (three, if you count digging your old mop out of the closet as a chore in itself).
Are robot vacuums good at mopping?I'm not saying you can expect a hybrid robot vacuum to scrub your kitchen grout with the same tenacity you would get with a toothbrush, but robot vacuums have gotten much better at mopping over the past few years.
Since 2020-ish, most robot vacuum companies have added at least one (several, in most cases) hybrid model to their lineup, with prices ranging from $200 to well over $1,000. You can generally expect the mopping technique to get a little more meticulous as price goes up, so the type of mess that your 2-in-1 model will need to conquer becomes a big deciding factor. Are you mostly concerned with wiping up spur-of-the-moment spills, or will you be a stickler about dried-on stains that call for more heavy-duty scrubbing?
SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuumFortunately, both ends of the pricing spectrum provide way more bang for their buck in 2024 than they did in the early 2020s. The mere presence of a cloth and a water tank is far from good enough at this point — now, the best robot vacuums and mops are armed with more mechanics attempting to mimic the elbow grease that a human with a mop or Swiffer would provide, like pressurized and/or spinning mopping pads (rather than lackadaisical, stationary ones). Water tank compatibility with cleaning solution and even automatic detergent
SEE ALSO: Dyson's cheapest laser vacuum made me feel bad about my dirty floors...in a good wayBut arguably the most pivotal shift 2-in-1 robot vacuums saw in the past year isn't on the robot vacuums themselves, but in their docks. Past automatically emptying the dust bin, the best robot mop combos also cross post-mopping maintenance off of your list by automatically washing and drying their own mopping pads, then refilling themselves with clean water from the dock. With one of these self-cleaning stations, your robovac will be ready to mop again almost immediately — a clutch change from an older, more basic design that had us all choosing between manually washing a smelly mopping pad after each use, letting it mop with a dirty pad, or just avoiding the mopping feature altogether.
Is Black Friday a good time to buy a robot vacuum?Yep, robot vacuum deals are a huge deal on Black Friday. This is especially true for more premium robot vacuum hybrids (like the full self-cleaning ones I just mentioned above) — while most 2-in-1 models that wash their own mopping pads usually run you at least $700 (but probably more) any other time, Black Friday is prime time to shave a few hundred dollars off to make the investment a little more digestible.
Aside from one or two straggler models that might be super new or a brand's most premium option, almost every robot vacuum that's worth your time will probably be on sale by the time Black Friday officially starts — maybe even hit a new record low price compared to October Prime Day. Naturally, I'm tracking all of the best Black Friday robot vacuum deals for you in an expertly curated list, including a ton of early deals.
Not sure how fancy of a hybrid robot vacuum you even need at home, or where to start your Black Friday search? I've tested 15+ of the most popular robot vacuum and mop combos on my own floors at home, narrowing down your options to the top four robot vacuums that also wash your floors.
Viruses love to jump between animal species.
In 2023, a highly pathogenic bird flu leapt to seals in South America, killing some 17,000 elephant seal pups (about 97 percent of the vulnerable animals) and an unknown number of adults in a major breeding colony in Península Valdés, Argentina. A new genetic analysis, published in the science journal Nature Communications, determined that once the virus entered this population of marine mammals, it evolved and spread easily between seals, likely stoking a transnational outbreak.
The results underscore the risk of bird flu spread in animals, including us. After all, some 75 percent of emerging infectious diseases in humans come from other animal species. These are known as zoonotic diseases.
"We reflect that H5N1 viruses becoming more evolutionary flexible and adapting to mammals in new ways could have global consequences for wildlife, humans, and/or livestock," the scientists wrote.
FYI: The images below show dead seals and birds.
SEE ALSO: These animals went extinct in 2023The dramatic, recent consequences for the elephant seals of Península Valdés can be seen in the images below.
"We were totally appalled by the dramatic impact of the epidemic of avian influenza on this population," Valeria Falabella, a study coauthor and the director of coastal and marine conservation at Wildlife Conservation Society Argentina, said in a statement. "It is likely that more than half of the reproductive population died due to the virus. It will take decades before the numbers are back to the 2022 population size."
Before the seals died, researchers observed telltale signs of infection in the pups, including labored breathing, tremors, trouble moving, and nasal discharge.
The carcasses of elephant seal pups documented in Punta Delgada, Argentina, in October 2023. Credit: Marcela Uhart / UC Davis An August 2024 image of skeletal remains of elephant seal pups from the Península Valdés colony. The outbreak occurred in 2023. Credit: Marcela Uhart / UC Davis In foreground: the remains of a dead elephant seal pup in Península Valdés. In background: young elephant seals on the beach. Credit: Ralph Vanstreels / UC Davis Dead elephant seal pups seen on the beach in Punta Delgada, Argentina, in October 2023. Credit: Ralph Vanstreels / UC DavisSwabbed samples taken from infected seals showed how the H5N1 virus has become increasingly adaptable to new hosts. The viruses found in seals and birds (such as terns) in Argentina formed a distinct clade or group that also spread to seals in Peru, Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay.
This virus isn't going away. While it hasn't been detected in the decimated elephant seal colonies in 2024, it has been "widespread in wild birds and has caused outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows, with recent cases reported among dairy and poultry workers," UC Davis, whose researchers worked on the new study, explained. Fortunately, the virus isn't spreading from humans to other humans — though it is infecting some U.S. dairy and poultry workers (46 people have been reported infected in the U.S. as of Nov. 11, according to the CDC).
Tweet may have been deletedThe researchers will continue monitoring the spread of this virus in the wild and elsewhere, with the aim of understanding how it's evolving.
It's unknown, of course, when or where the next novel viral outbreak in humans will come from. It could be a long time. Or not. It could be another coronavirus. Or another influenza virus — which caused the devastating 1918 flu pandemic (and may have started as an avian flu). But what's certain, although sometimes easy to forget, is that our history is punctuated by pandemics.
TL;DR: Get Minecraft Java and Bedrock Edition for $19.97 — a gift of endless creativity, adventure, and pixel-perfect fun.
If you’re looking for a holiday gift that’s as limitless as their imagination, this digital download of Minecraft Java and Bedrock Edition is the ultimate choice for just $20 (reg. $29). From snowy village builds to pixelated cabins and forests, Minecraft lets players create their own winter escape — all without stepping into the cold.
Perfect for kids, teens, and any adults who still love a good adventure, this game is a cozy gift that lasts way beyond the holiday season.
With both Java and Bedrock Editions, players can switch between modes, experiment with new updates, and access thousands of mods, texture packs, and mini-games. Whether they’re logging on solo or joining friends, Minecraft’s world-building tools offer countless ways to explore, craft, and conquer. The game’s creative and survival modes let players choose their own journey, whether they’re setting up a bustling winter town or dodging digital characters in survival mode.
Minecraft is also cross-platform, so they can play on different devices without missing a beat. And with regular updates, it’s a gift that keeps on giving — new biomes, mobs, and challenges are always on the horizon.
Priced at $19.97 for a limited time, the Minecraft Java and Bedrock Edition digital download is the perfect blend of nostalgia and adventure, and the only thing they’ll need to bundle up for is a trip to their own pixelated wonderland.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition (Digital Download) $19.97TL;DR: For $59.99, Kwit’s lifetime plan offers a supportive path to quit smoking with daily motivation and personalized tools.
If you’ve tried quitting smoking before and it didn’t stick, Kwit’s lifetime plan is here to help you make 2025 the year you finally kick the habit. With this lifetime subscription for $59.99, Kwit becomes your steady partner, offering tools, progress tracking, and motivational boosts whenever you need them — no pressure, no deadlines.
Quitting doesn’t happen overnight, but with Kwit’s constant support, you can approach it at your own pace.
Kwit’s app is designed around the science of habit-breaking, with daily challenges and personalized goals that keep you moving forward, one step at a time. The app tracks your progress, celebrates small wins, and even shows you the money you’re saving by staying smoke-free. Plus, for those tough moments, Kwit offers guided breathing exercises and reminders to help you manage cravings and stay on track.
Need extra encouragement? Kwit connects you with a community of people on the same journey, adding a layer of accountability and support. And with lifetime access, you’ll never have to worry about losing these resources.
Make a small investment in a huge lifestyle change, and the savings from going smoke-free.
Opens in a new window Credit: KWIT Kwit Stop-Smoking App: Premium Lifetime Subscription $59.99For $59.99 (reg. $149), Kwit isn’t just another quit-smoking app — it’s the partner that helps keep you strong for the long haul.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
This woman is the most beloved human in your life, right? Whether it's the person who brought you into this world or the woman who raised you or simply someone who feels like a mother to you, finding your mom the perferct birthday gift comes with a lot of pressure. "This is how much I love you," the gift seems to say — even if she would never see it that way. So whether it's her 50th birthday, her 60th birthday, or some top-secret age she refuses to share, are some birthday gift ideas for your mom to help you select something special.
Ceramic dinnerware set Credit: GBHOME / AmazonIf she loves to entertain, here’s an easy way to shake things up the next time she gathers her tribe: A beautiful set of dishes in a bright color that will pair with her “good” white dishes perfectly.
Opens in a new window Credit: GBHOME / Amazon Ceramic Dinnerware Sets at AmazonMake her evening walk through the neighborhood a little more high fidelity with these good-looking cans from Beats. Comfortable, with crystal clear sound quality, she’ll love listening to her podcasts and playlists while enjoying the 40 hours of battery life.
Opens in a new window Credit: Beats / Amazon Beats Studio Pro at AmazonSomething happens between humans and birds as we age – all of a sudden we become obsessed. We don't have the science to explain this phenomenon, but your mom will love this acrylic feeder and spend hours watching its visitors.
Opens in a new window Credit: Nature Anywhere / Amazon Transparent Acrylic Window Bird Feeder $33.90 at AmazonShe can stash these magnetic warmers in her pockets to make any winter errand or sporting event infinitely more comfortable. They're rechargeable, which means she can plug them in once in a while when they need the juice and then keep them tucked in a coat where she’ll need them most.
Opens in a new window Credit: OCOOPA / Amazon Hand Warmers $27.98 at AmazonFinally: an offline game that's actually fun for grown-ups. This one tests her music knowledge through the decades, including QR codes that queue up the music as you’re playing.
Opens in a new window Credit: Jumbo / Amazon Jumbo Hitster — The Music Party Card Game at AmazonThis modern ceramic diffuser will make an understated, design-y impression on her shelf, while producing a subtly gorgeous fragrance for any room. With nine hours of run time, this will go a long way in her self-care efforts.
Opens in a new window Credit: VIVITEST / Amazon Stone Diffuser at AmazonThis gorgeous fireplace with mid-century lines and a beautiful powder-coated finish is perfect inside or out. We love the idea of parking this on her patio so she can enjoy the shoulder season in smokeless style.
Opens in a new window Credit: Terra Flame / Amazon Outdoor Gel Fuled Modern Fireplace $699.99 at AmazonIf she's the person head down on the beach searching for the perfect shell, then snag here one of these. This pretty acrylic display case also makes for a super special vacation souvenir.
Opens in a new window Credit: XronSlute / Amazon Acrylic Shell Display at AmazonGifting someone a cleaning tool can sometimes be tricky. But if your mom is addicted to CleanTok videos and fantasizes about taking a toothbrush to grout, then this portable steam cleaner is a solid option. She will love getting that forever stain off the dining room chair, all thanks to you.
Hydroponic Indoor Gardening Credit: CYBSDF / AmazonHer favorite hobby – gardening – doesn't need to stop when the mercury dips. Help her move things inside with this starter hydroponic situation so she can pick fresh herbs all year long.
Opens in a new window Credit: CYBSDF / Amazon Indoor Garden Hydroponics Growing System at AmazonIf she's an unabashed coffee snob (you have that in common), lean into it with an upgrade that will make all her barista dreams come true. This Breville machine makes coffee- and expresso-based drinks like her favorite coffee shop all from the comfort of the kitchen counter.
Opens in a new window Credit: Breville / Amazon Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine $679.95 at AmazonThe first time she lets the Roomba loose, it will map her house. The second time, it will methodically do the vacuuming, expertly avoiding the stairs. Even better, she can tell Alexa to manage the cleaning while she’s scrolling through her social feeds and sending you an endless stream of reels from the couch.
Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot / Amazon iRobot Roomba $219.14 at AmazonWe are team perfect smoothies, and she will be too after you gift her the king of blenders. Perfect for drinks, but also for soups, and all manners of dips and pestos, this machine will last a lifetime.
Opens in a new window Credit: Vitamix / Amazon Vitamix Explorian Blender $269.95 at AmazonThis electric bike has pedal-assist technology, which means help when she needs it, a regular bike when she doesn't. Perfect for commuting or errands or joy riding, when she locks up this bike, the battery detaches and goes with her, making it significantly less tempting for thieves.
Opens in a new window Credit: Viribus / Amazon Viribus Electric Bike at AmazonWomen of a certain age need weight-resistant activities in order to keep their bones strong. Help mom get her reps in with a weighted vest, which allows her to weight lift while she’s walking the pooch, or gardening, or anything else for that matter.
Opens in a new window Credit: Henkelion / Amazon Henkelion Weighted Vest at AmazonIs mom a bath lover? These bath bombs come in a set of six and are made in the US from all-natural and organic ingredients. Next time she's feeling more relaxed than she has in weeks, she'll have you to thank.
Opens in a new window Credit: Beauty by Earth / Amazon Bath Bomb Gift Set at AmazonDelicate gold bookmarks for the voracious reader matriarch are always a great idea. These come in a four-pack with pretty leaves that peek out of the pages.
Opens in a new window Credit: Fermus / Amazon 4 Pack Metal Bookmarks with Chain $8.99 at AmazonIt's an ode to your love for her, without being completely obvious about it. This bracelet spells out your secret message in Morse code so she can wear something as simple as “I love you" or you can reference an inside joke that will make her giggle. The message is up to you.
Opens in a new window Credit: Joycuff / Amazon Morse Code Bracelet at AmazonIs there a more decadent gift or lovely sensation than stepping out of the shower on a cold morning and wrapping yourself in a warm towel? This bin will heat two large bath towels or one large bathrobe and you can even add aromatherapy if you choose. Your mom will be over the moon.
Opens in a new window Credit: SAMEAT / Amazon Heated Towel Warmer at AmazonMaybe it’s a slightly old-school gift – but there’s no getting around the fact that foot massagers are actually magical. This one uses heat, kneading action, and air compression to soothe sore soles.
Opens in a new window Credit: Nekteck / Amazon Shiatsu Foot Massager $69.99 at AmazonShe can pick her perfect scent out of the dozen included in this sampler pack. They're all organic and single ingredient with no synthetic additives.
Opens in a new window Credit: Cliganic / Amazon Organic Aromatherapy Essential Oils Set $26.39 at AmazonKeep these individually packed eye masks in the fridge for extra soothing de-puffiness. Maybe she’ll let you borrow a set now and then and you can de-stress together.
Opens in a new window Credit: Grace & Stella / Amazon Grace & Stella Under Eye Masks $15.99 at AmazonTake the best pic from your last family vacation and turn it into a custom photo puzzle. Better yet, since you’re giving the gift you can make sure the picture is actually a flattering one, and not the photo she used in last year’s holiday card, where your eyes were half closed.
Opens in a new window Credit: ArtDecor2021 / Amazon Personalized Photo Puzzle at AmazonSAVE $300: As of Nov. 12, the Google Pixel 8 (128 GB) is on sale for $399 at Amazon, down from $699. Grab this early Black Friday deal and save 43% on a powerful Android smartphone.
Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 8 (128GB) $399.00 at AmazonThe holiday shopping chaos may still be a few weeks away, but Amazon's early Black Friday deals are already rolling out with a bang. Case in point: the Google Pixel 8 is now a jaw-dropping 43% off, bringing it down to $399 from its usual $699. That's a $300 discount on one of the most advanced Android phones out there, complete with AI-powered features, a stellar camera, and all the perks you'd expect from Google.
With the Pixel 8, Google has packed some serious hardware and software upgrades. This model runs on the Google Tensor G3 chip, custom-built to harness Google's latest AI capabilities, giving you next-level photo and video editing. Love close-up shots? The Pixel 8 now includes Macro Focus, so even tiny details look sharp and vibrant, whether snapping nature shots or capturing tiny information about everyday objects.
SEE ALSO: Pixel 9 Pro vs. Pixel 9 Pro XLThe 6.2-inch Actua display isn't just big — it's beautiful. With a 120Hz refresh rate, this display keeps scrolling, gaming, and app-switching super smooth. And it's bright enough to handle all lighting conditions, from outdoor adventures to cozy nights. Battery life is another Pixel 8 strength. The Adaptive Battery lasts over 24 hours, and if you turn on Extreme Battery Saver mode, you can stretch that to an impressive 72 hours. Faster charging means you're likely to be stuck hunting for an outlet.
This Pixel 8 model is unlocked, meaning you can use it on virtually any carrier. Plus, with 128GB of storage, there's plenty of room for your photos, apps, and all those travel videos you keep meaning to edit. So, if you're looking for a feature-packed Android with a price tag that won't make your wallet ache, this Pixel 8 deal is as good as it gets. Get ahead of the Black Friday rush and scoop up this powerful phone while it's still at an all-time low.
Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.
Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.
If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for Nov. 11'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 Sports Edition?The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.
Tweet may have been deletedEach 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 deletedPlayers 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 November 12 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Going for 3.
Green: Checking the score
Blue: Tourney toppers
Purple: FIFA legends
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow - Actions on a field goal attempt
Green - MLB teams on scoreboards
Blue - Schools with most Men's NCAA Tournament Titles
Purple - Brazilian soccer legends
Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.
Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.
Drumroll, please!
The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #50 is...
What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition todayActions on a field goal attempt: BLOCK, HOLD, KICK, SNAP
MLB teams on scoreboards: LAD, MIN, PIT, SEA
Schools with most Men's NCAA Tournament Titles: KENTUCKY, UCLA, UCONN, UNC
Brazilian soccer legends: CAFU, KAKA, PELE, RONALDINHO
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.
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 MashableHere are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Tuesday, November 12, 2024:
AcrossMake very thirstyThe answer is Parch.
The answer is Aloha.
The answer is Cedes.
The answer is Erect.
The answer is Stroke.
The answer is Paces.
The answer is Alert.
The answer is Rodeo.
The answer is Check.
The answer is Haste.
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 GamesAre you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.
SAVE $130: As of Nov. 12, the Dyson Airwrap is reduced to $219.99 at Walmart. That's a 37% discount on list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Airwrap $219.99 at WalmartWalmart's early Black Friday sale officially kicked off on Nov. 11, following retailers Target and BestBuy with the early deals. No longer are your discounts limited to one day of madness, you have the whole month to shop for incredible discounts. Deals spread far and wide across all products, but we love this latest deal on the refurbished Dyson Airwrap.
The Dyson Airwrap has remained at the top of the hair products game since its release years ago, famed for its incredible styling techniques using Dyson air-powered technology. Such incredible technology doesn't come without a high price tag, however, and this product has regularly been priced north of $300. But as of Nov. 12, you can find this refurbished model at Walmart reduced to just $219.99, saving you $130 on list price.
SEE ALSO: Save over $200 on a refurbished Dyson Corrale at WalmartDon't let the "refurbished" stamp put you off; this product has gone through heavy testing to ensure it's fit for purpose. According to Walmart, it has been professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned by a performance-managed seller or supplier. It also has a one-year warranty, so you can have peace of mind.
This iconic hair tool features a range of attachments to curl, wave, smooth, and add volume to your hair without extreme heat. It offers versatility for all types of hair style, from natural waves to polished looks, all while minimizing the risk of heat damage.
This deal is available in both colors, but currently, only the nickel/copper option is in stock at Walmart.
SAVE $50: As of Nov. 12, the Microsoft Xbox Series X is on sale for $448 at Walmart. That's a 10% saving on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox Microsoft Xbox Series X $448.00 at WalmartWalmart's Black Friday sale has kicked off early and we're all in for a treat. You'll find everything from TVs, laptops, and gaming devices reduced, so there couldn't be a better time to get prepared for Christmas, or to treat yourself.
The plethora of Black Friday deals also includes this $50 discount on the Microsoft Xbox Series X. As of Nov. 12, it's reduced by 10%. This deal comes with the console, Xbox Wireless Controller, an ultra-high-speed HDMI cable, a power cable, and two AA batteries.
SEE ALSO: Find the best early Black Friday Apple AirTag deal at WalmartThis device is a powerhouse for gaming, built for speed, incredible visuals, and an overall smooth experience. Released in late 2020, it boasts a super-fast custom SSD and a powerful processor, allowing games to load quickly and run at up to 4K resolution with incredible detail.
It’s backward compatible too, so you can enjoy all your Xbox One, Xbox 360, and even some original Xbox games. Plus, with Xbox Game Pass, you get access to a huge library of games.
Head over to the Walmart website to snag this great early Black Friday deal.
NASA's Voyager mission beamed back unprecedented views. It also sent back some mysteries.
One of these came in 1986, when the Voyager 2 probe — one of a duo of Voyager craft sent into deep space — journeyed by the ice giant Uranus, a strange world rotating on its side. When the mission passed by, its instruments detected strong radiation around Uranus, yet, curiously, didn't find any source of energized particles to feed these zones of radiation.
For decades, the observation has been an enigma. But not anymore. Recent analysis of Voyager's old data found that extreme solar wind — a flow of particles shooting out from the sun — impacted the environs around Uranus and created the abnormal episode.
"The spacecraft saw Uranus in conditions that only occur about 4 percent of the time," Jamie Jasinski, a NASA physicist who led the new research published in Nature Astronomy, said in a statement.
SEE ALSO: NASA spacecraft keeps on going faster and faster and fasterThe graphics below help demonstrate what happened. Like Earth, Uranus has a protective magnetosphere — the region or cavity around the planet home to its magnetic field (these magnetic fields are created by currents in the planets' metallic cores). Magnetospheres shield planets from solar storms and wind, but become compressed by this potent stream of solar particles.
When the solar wind hit Uranus' magnetosphere, it compressed the distant planet's magnetosphere, and squeezed out the plasma (hot gas composed of electrically charged particles) that naturally surrounds Uranus. Instead, the solar wind injected its own particles into radiation belts around Uranus. This explains why the Uranus environment was so irradiated — but didn't seem to have an obvious source of radiation.
On left: Typical conditions around Uranus, showing a rich area of plasma around the planet. On right: Particles from the solar wind compressing Uranus' magnetosphere and forcing out the system's plasma. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech Tweet may have been deletedThese results also suggest that some of Uranus' five moons aren't dead, after all. The lack of plasma around the planet hinted that the moons weren't geologically active, because unlike other active moons of our solar system (like Jupiter's ocean moon Europa), it appeared Uranus' satellites emitted no charged water molecules. But that might not be the case.
There are no missions back to Uranus any time soon, though the planet, at 1.8 billion miles (2.9 billion kilometers) away, is considered a priority target for a future NASA mission.
Meanwhile, the Voyager probes continue their respective journeys through interstellar space, where they'll journey through the galaxy for billions of years.
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 MashableBy 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: Wordle today: Answer, hints for November 12 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for November 12 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Spell it outThese words take the long way to get there.
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explainedWords for letters.
NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.
NYT Strands spangram answer todayToday's spangram is NatoAlphabet.
Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for November 12Echo
Tango
Foxtrot
Bravo
Victor
Golf
Delta
NatoAlphabet
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.
SAVE $10: As of Nov. 12, the Apple AirTag is on sale at Walmart for $19, saving you 34% on the list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirTag $19.00 at WalmartThere may be a few weeks left until the big event really kicks off, but Black Friday discounts have already started to appear at our favorite retailers, including Walmart.
Yep, eager sales-hunters can find a huge variety of deals already live and kicking at Walmart, with TVs, vacuums, headphone, and laptops on offer. But for something extra useful, why not check out this deal on the Apple AirTag, currently reduced to $19 (as of Nov. 12).
SEE ALSO: Save $200 on Apple’s 2024 MacBook Air with M3 chip before Black FridayThe deal is for just one AirTag that you can attach to pretty much anything: your wallet, keys, even your pet's collar. The setup is super easy, attach it to your item of choice and track it in the Find My app. It even has a small built-in speaker, so you can trigger a sound from the Find My app on your Apple device, making it easier to find the AirTag if it's nearby but out of sight, like under a cushion or in a bag.
But what about battery life, you ask? All AirTags are designed to have a one-year battery, with regular use. They use a standard CR2032 coin cell battery, which is user-replaceable. When the battery is running low, you’ll receive a notification on your iPhone, giving you plenty of time to replace it.
Ready to stop losing your items every other day? Head to Walmart now.
SAVE $230: As of Nov. 12, you can find the Dyson Corrale Hair Straighteners on sale at Walmart for $169.99. This deal saves you 57% on list price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Corrale $169.99 at WalmartNovember is the month of discounts and sales, and we're not mad about it. As brands start the countdown to Black Friday, many will indulge in some early deals, before the madness truly begins. Walmart is one such brand, and as of Nov. 12, you can already find a host of early Black Friday deals to browse. From tech to beauty devices, there's something for everyone.
We couldn't help but spotlight this incredible deal on a refurbished Dyson Corrale, reduced to just $169.99 (correct as of Nov. 12). That's a huge discount of 57%, and who couldn't love a Dyson haircare deal for under $200. The deal is available in a range of colors, but currently, only fuschia and copper/nickel are still in stock.
SEE ALSO: Snag the Apple Watch Series 10 for under $400 ahead of Black FridayAnd don't be put off by the "refurbished" stamp; this product has gone through thorough testing to ensure it's fit for purpose. According to Walmart, it has been professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned by a performance-managed seller or supplier. It comes with a one-year guarantee, too.
The Corrale is an incredible option in the hair straightener market (our review alone sings its praises). Different from standard straighteners that use solid plates to flatten the hair, Dyson uses flexing plates to shape and gather hair, giving you more styling with less heat. And we all know, less heat equals less damage and frizz.
This is an online-only deal at Walmart, so don't miss out.
SAVE $50: As of Nov. 12, the Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 46mm) is on sale for $379 at Amazon, down from $429. Snag this early Black Friday deal for a smartwatch that does it all.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 46mm) $379.00 at AmazonBlack Friday isn’t here just yet, but the Apple Watch Series 10 is already seeing a sweet price cut. This sleek wearable is $50 off at Amazon, bringing the price down to $379 (from $429). If you’ve been eyeing a watch that tracks everything from your steps to your heart rate, this might be the early Black Friday deal you’ve been waiting for.
The Apple Watch Series 10 brings some impressive updates, starting with its bigger display, which boasts 30% more screen area than previous models. With its thinner, lighter build, this watch is designed for all-day comfort. Plus, the always-on Retina display means it looks sharp all day. No need to keep tapping your wrist to check the time.
SEE ALSO: Apple Watch Ultra 1 vs. Ultra 2: We'll make this simpleIf health insights are your jam, the Series 10 covers a lot of ground. You can take an ECG any time, monitor your heart rate, and get alerts if something seems off. A sleep tracker that watches for signs of sleep apnea and menstrual cycle tracking offers retrospective ovulation estimates. And suppose you ever find yourself in a tricky situation. In that case, the built-in Fall Detection and Crash Detection features can connect you to emergency services with a simple tap.
This smartwatch isn’t just for fitness fiends, either. It pairs seamlessly with your iPhone, letting you quickly take calls, send texts, and use Siri. And with three months of Apple Fitness+ included, you’ll have guided workouts right on your wrist to help you close those Activity Rings in style.
So, why wait until Black Friday when you can snag this Series 10 at a discount right now? Whether it’s a gift for yourself or someone else, this early deal is a smart way to save on a smartwatch that does it all.
SAVE $200: As of Nov. 12, the 2024 MacBook Air with M3 chip is $200 off at Amazon, bringing the price down to $899 (regularly $1,099). Grab this early Black Friday deal on Apple’s latest tech.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 2024 MacBook Air $899.00 at AmazonIf waiting until Black Friday feels like torture, this deal on Apple’s brand-new MacBook Air might just be the answer. Amazon has shaved $200 off the 2024 MacBook Air with the M3 chip, dropping it to $899, so you can lock in a deal now and skip the holiday frenzy. Think of it as a head start to holiday shopping — and an upgrade you can start enjoying ASAP.
The 2024 MacBook Air is more than just a pretty face, though that sleek design doesn’t hurt. It’s powered by Apple’s new M3 chip with an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, which basically means it can breeze through work, streaming, and whatever else you’ve got on deck. It’s also designed with Apple Intelligence, giving you the edge of optimized multitasking and beefed-up privacy protections, so even Apple can’t snoop on your data.
SEE ALSO: These 3-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Memberships are only $36.49What really makes this MacBook Air special? It’s portable, powerful, and pretty darn practical. At half an inch thick and feather-light, this is a laptop that’s ready to travel with you, whether you’re running from class to class, hopping between coffee shops, or just working from the couch. Plus, with up to 18 hours of battery life, you’ll have plenty of juice to make it through the day without hunting down a power outlet.
And let's talk display: The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina screen supports over a billion colors, so everything looks sharp, vibrant, and almost touchable. Whether you’re binging a series or editing your latest photo haul, the picture quality is top-notch. Add in a 1080p FaceTime camera and Spatial Audio speakers, and you’re all set for video calls that don’t make you sound like you’re talking from a tin can.
This pre-Black Friday price is a rare treat, especially for an Apple product. So, if you’re looking to get your hands on the latest tech without the Black Friday panic, now’s the time to snag one before it’s gone (or worse, back up to full price).
SAVE $40: As of Nov. 12, RayNeo’s Air 2s AR glasses are $40 off at Amazon with an on-site coupon, bringing the price down to $359.99. Take advantage of this early Black Friday deal and start leveling up your reality.
Opens in a new window Credit: Rayneo RayNeo Air 2s AR glasses $359.99 at AmazonThe Black Friday blitz is closing in. If you’d rather skip the chaos, this early deal on RayNeo’s Air 2s AR glasses is worth a closer look. With a $40 off coupon, bringing the price to $359.99 on Amazon, you can dive into your favorite game or show on a whopping 201-inch virtual screen without waiting for Black Friday (or elbowing through the holiday crowds).
These AR glasses mean serious business (and serious fun). Built to bring your tech setup into the future, RayNeo’s Air 2s AR glasses offer a stunning 201-inch virtual screen effect that’s bright enough for anything from sunny outdoor binge-watching to dim-lit gaming marathons. The glasses feature a crisp micro-OLED display from Sony with an impressive 120Hz refresh rate, so visuals are seamless, and a brightness of up to 5,000 nits — way more than you’d expect from something in your bag. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or just watching TikToks on the sly, the picture’s bound to impress.
SEE ALSO: These 3-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Memberships are only $36.49Air 2s rocks a quad-speaker setup that provides surround sound without a bulky headset. The Push-Push design (like a mini-studio on your head) means you’ll get clear highs, balanced mids, and bass that’s got actual depth. No more muffled audio from dinky glasses speakers. And thanks to the superpower of Whisper Mode 2.0, you can keep the sound to yourself, so your significant other can catch some z’s while you’re diving into the latest game release.
This $40 pre-Black Friday deal isn’t just about gaming, either; it’s a solid option for anyone looking to mix some high-tech style into their routine. The Air 2s glasses are compatible with pretty much every device in your arsenal — from the iPhone 16 to the Nintendo Switch. But heads up: if you’re on a Pixel or an iPhone with a Lightning port, you may need an adapter (just one tiny speed bump to ultra-cool reality).
If you’re into mixing up reality with some help from RayNeo, now’s the time to grab this early discount before the big sales hit. It’s almost a guaranteed way to avoid the gift scramble, so you can actually relax on Black Friday (or scroll through deals from the comfort of these futuristic specs).
The Steam Deck will soon come in white, with Valve announcing the handheld console's new colourway on Monday. You'll have to pay a little more for the aesthetic, though.
The Steam Deck OLED: Limited Edition White will be available from Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. EST / 3 p.m. PST in every region where the console is already available. It will also be available in Australia, arriving with the Steam Deck's long-awaited launch in the region on Nov. 19 at 10 a.m. AEST.
SEE ALSO: I tested Steam Deck OLED for 3 weeks — it's more than just a display upgradeIf you already have a Steam Deck, there isn't much point in picking up the white version. The Steam Deck OLED: Limited Edition White is exactly the same as the Steam Deck OLED's 1TB model in terms of specs. Both consoles have a 1280 x 800 HDR OLED display, up to 90Hz refresh rate, and enough power for around three to 12 hours of gameplay.
The primary difference between the two is that the Steam Deck OLED: Limited Edition White is, as the name suggests, coloured white and grey. Valve also notes that it comes with a white carry case, as opposed to the typical black one, as well as a white microfibre cloth to help you keep your device clean.
Aside from this, the only other difference between the black and white Steam Decks is their price. While the regular black 1TB Steam Deck will set you back $649, the Limited Edition White costs $679, charging you an extra $30 for the aesthetic.
Tweet may have been deletedIf you're debating whether to pick it up anyway, you'd better decide quickly. The white Steam Deck will only be available in "limited quantities, with stock allocated proportionally across each region," and only one can be purchased per Steam account. Exactly how limited said quantities are is unclear, but Valve has stated that they won't be doing another run.
"As this is a limited edition release, we will not be making more of this particular design," said Valve. "Once we are sold out, we will be sold out."
How to get the white Steam DeckPurchasing a Steam Deck isn't as simple as adding it to your Amazon cart, though. The console will be available through the Steam store (except in some Asian regions where it will be available via Komodo). However, users will only be able to buy it if they spent at least $US5 in the Steam store prior to this month, so anyone who hasn't done that already is simply out of luck. Valve has previously stated that it limits user accounts that haven't made such transactions in order to weed out spam and malicious users.
Your account also has to be in "good standing" for Valve to let you purchase a Steam Deck, the company apparently disinterested in selling consoles to people who install cheat programs. To check your status under the Valve Anti-Cheat System (VAC), open the Steam app on your PC, click "Steam," select "Settings," then hit the "Learn More" button next to "VAC status." It will then tell you whether your account is in good standing, or if you've been caught being a filthy cheat.
Similar restrictions apply to those who want to buy the standard black Steam Deck as well, though by now they've had more than enough time to spend $5 and become unlimited users. The black Steam Deck isn't a limited edition model either, so even if you can't buy it this month, there's always the next.
TL;DR: A great gift for gamers: These 3-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Memberships are only £28.35 (reg. £39.60).
Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: 3-Month Membership - Stackable & Global - (Digital Code) £28.35 at the Mashable ShopNew games are coming out all the time. As exciting as that can be, games aren't exactly cheap. Dropping a fresh wad of pounds on every new title isn't feasible for most gamers, so it's a good thing there's an alternative.
Instead of grabbing every new title, try Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to get access to hundreds of high-quality titles on-demand. With exclusive day-one releases, a huge library of indie hits and blockbusters, and seamless play across consoles, PCs, and even smart TVs, Game Pass is a game-changer—and now it’s more affordable than ever.
Right now, you can grab a 3-month membership for just £28.35 (reg. £39.60), and since these memberships are stackable, you can lock in up to 15 months at a discount.
A great buy, even if you already own itThis membership is available to new and existing members, so it's worth checking out even if you're a long-time Game Pass member. Now you can keep up your membership for 15 months at a huge discount.
Game Pass Ultimate isn’t just about access—it’s about staying ahead. With new games constantly being added, including fresh releases from Xbox Game Studios and Bethesda, there’s always something exciting waiting. Whether you're hopping into the latest RPG or exploring an indie gem, you’ll never run out of games to play.
One of the coolest perks? You can play wherever you want. Stream games to your phone, tablet, or even a VR headset with cloud gaming—no downloads required. Plus, members get exclusive discounts on in-game content and free add-ons, along with access to EA Play. That means early trials and special rewards for franchises like The Sims and Madden NFL.
With Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you’re not just buying games—you’re getting an ever-evolving experience that fits any setup and any mood. And at this discounted price, there’s no better way to dive in.
Save on a great gift for gamersWhy get one game when you can unlock dozens?
You can get an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 3-Month Membership on sale for £28.35 (reg. £39.60) at the Mashable Shop.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
TL;DR: Stream the latest series of I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
There are a lot of obvious signs that we're entering the festive season. Christmas decorations start to appear in shop windows, Christmas songs are played on the radio, and every advert is all about the holidays. Those are big clues, but there's also something that goes on Down Under that signals the start of Christmas: I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
If you want to watch I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When does I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! start?I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! starts on Nov. 17 and runs for three weeks.
How to watch I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! for freeYou can watch every episode of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! on ITV1, with free live streaming available on ITVX.
If you're abroad for this series, you might need to use a VPN to unblock ITVX. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can connect to ITVX from any location.
Unblock ITVX to watch I’m A Celeb by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit ITVX
Stream I’m A Celeb for free from anywhere in the world
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 ITVX without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it gives you the opportunity to stream I’m A Celeb before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for ITVX?ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking ITVX, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including the UK
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.
Stream I’m A Celeb for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
Take a New York Minute to Review Your Recovery Plan Don Henley is right: everything can change in a New York...
I Lost all of my Photos In every disaster I have ever responded to from here to...
Boston's most important responders: Bostonians The people of Boston are to be congratulated for being...
3 Values Your Business Continuity Plan Should Have Your business lives with risk every day from competitors...
Digital Privacy: A Catch 22 Mobility, convenience, accessibility and real-...
Take a New York Minute to Review Your Recovery Plan Don Henley is right: everything can change in a New York...
3 Values Your Business Continuity Plan Should Have Your business lives with risk every day from competitors...
I Lost all of my Photos In every disaster I have ever responded to from here to...