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ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is often misunderstood. ADHD isn't a product of laziness, stupidity, or "bad parenting," as former Mashable reporter Jess Joho wrote. Rather, it's a brain disorder that can impact executive function, attention, hyperactivity, emotional regulation, and more. For ADHD singles trying to use dating apps, the condition can have a huge impact on their ability to find a partner.
That's what Hinge found in its new Love and ADHD D.A.T.E. report, with survey findings from over 60,000 global users, including 9,000 with ADHD. A majority (82 percent) of Hinge users with ADHD are seeking a relationship, but 75 percent feel misunderstood by their matches. Two areas where ADHD daters may struggle are responding to potential dates and navigating small talk, according to the report.
SEE ALSO: TikTok's retro dating dance trends harken back to the days of courtship ADHD daters (not) responding to matchesForty-three percent of Hinge daters with ADHD often forget to respond to matches, and 32 percent feel misunderstood when matches assume they're not interested due to slow responses. This might be compounded by the fact that 71 percent of Hinge daters expect their matches to respond within a day, and those who do are more likely to go on a date.
When asked what makes it hard to respond to matches, 45 percent of respondents forget, and the same amount said a conversation feeling repetitive and boring makes it difficult. Meanwhile, 40 percent said feeling overwhelmed is another barrier.
"I wish my matches understood that when I forgot to respond, it wasn't due to a lack of interest — it was just that my brain often got overwhelmed or distracted," said content creator Tarah Clark, who was quoted in the report. "When someone sent a gentle reminder, I appreciated it. A follow-up message helped bring the conversation back to the forefront of my mind, and I was always happy to continue chatting."
Credit: HingeHinge's director of relationship science, Logan Ury, shared some tips for daters with ADHD in terms of responsiveness:
Be upfront about your communication preferences from the start.
Reduce friction — meaning, make it easier for yourself to respond. If you're more responsive on iMessage than Hinge, for example, exchange numbers with a match.
Set reminders.
Shift to talking on the phone or FaceTime. This can help prevent a prolonged "talking stage."
Ury also shared tips for neurotypical daters:
Don't make assumptions. You don't know why someone isn't responding!
Keep an open mind.
Appreciate honesty.
Get on the same page. If you don't know how to read someone's behavior, ask them about it.
Daters with ADHD were 31 percent more likely than neurotypical daters to report that they don't like making small talk. Small talk — about someone's day or the weather — can feel boring and unstimulating. They were also 38 percent more likely than neurotypical daters to find it difficult to keep conversations going, with half of ADHD daters preferring to get to know a match in person.
SEE ALSO: Flirting IRL is having a major pop culture moment"So much of my personality is physical — my big facial expressions, how my body moves when I speak, how I always need to be doing something with my hands. It feels easier to me when I can connect in-person," said BookTokker Alexis Anunson, who was quoted in the report.
Here are Ury's tips for ADHD daters on navigating small talk:
Showcase your interests on your profile. Talking about what you care about can be more exciting than discussing your day-to-day.
Keep a list of questions on your phone to ask matches.
Get to a date faster (when you're both comfortable).
And for neurotypical daters:
Bond over shared interests.
Be open to exploring something new.
Embrace the differences of others.
For LGBTQ daters with ADHD specifically, 64 percent worry about saying the wrong thing. "Often, there are stigmas associated with being either LGBTQIA+ or having ADHD, but for people who are at the intersection of those identities, even messaging a match can cause anxiety," commented Hinge's love and connection expert Moe Ari Brown.
Brown encourages these daters to celebrate themselves, honor their strengths, and find ways to communicate that work for them. Similarly to Ury's example, if messaging overwhelms you, try a phone or FaceTime date instead.
While three in four ADHD daters feel misunderstood by matches, Hinge found that 63 percent of neurotypical daters do, too. Maybe with these tips, we can all move forward with fewer assumptions about the people in our phones.
Elon Musk is getting sued again, this time by the production company behind Blade Runner 2049.
Alcon Entertainment filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles on Monday with the U.S. District Court, naming Musk, Tesla, and Warner Bros. Discovery, and accusing them of using copyrighted images to create AI-generated stills to promote Tesla's new "robotaxi" aka "Cybercab".
The complaint alleges the defendants requested permission to use a still from Denis Villeneuve's Blade Runner 2049 to promote the fully autonomous electric vehicle at the livestreamed "We, Robot" event at the Warner Bros Studios in Burbank, California on Oct. 10. However, Alcon said it refused permission and "adamantly objected" to the use of the image or "suggesting any affiliation between Blade Runner 2049 and Tesla, Musk or any Musk-owned company."
Then, the company alleges, Musk and Tesla "used an apparently AI-generated faked image to do it all anyway."
SEE ALSO: Musk is gutting X's blocking feature — why this change is dangerousAlcon's filing accuses Musk and Tesla of feeding the requested image from Blade Runner 2049 along with images from the same scene into an AI image generator and "directed the AI to make a lightly stylized fake screen still", which it then displayed at the globally livestreamed event for 11 seconds (for which the production company says Musk had "no credible reason").
The images, Alcon describes, are taken from the "most memorable sequences" of Blade Runner 2049, when Ryan Gosling's character K arrives in the desert ruins of Las Vegas — it's the area that's bright orange thanks to nuclear destruction. "The sequence follows K as he leaves the spinner and walks in his trench coat or “duster” toward and through the misty orange urban desert ruins, often viewed by the camera from behind or in silhouette," Alcon describes.
You can see in the Tesla presentation below around the five-minute mark that Musk indeed names Blade Runner onstage during his keynote while an undeniably Blade Runner-esque image is on screen, with the words "Not This" appearing in the upper left corner. "You see a lot of sci-fi movies where the future is dark and dismal. It's not a future you want to be in," Musk said. "Like, I love Blade Runner but I don't know if we want that future. I think we want that duster he's wearing but not the bleak apocalypse."
Alcon has described Musk and Tesla's copyright infringement as "a bad-faith and intentionally malicious gambit" to "make the otherwise stilted and stiff content of the joint WBDI-Tesla event more attractive to the global audience and to misappropriate Blade Runner 2049's brand to help sell Teslas." The company also said Musk's use of Blade Runner 2049 imagery was "hardly coincidental" as "the only specific Hollywood film which Musk actually discussed to pitch his new, fully autonomous, AI-driven cybercab" — given the film prominently features a futuristic, AI-powered, driverless car.
But the suit gets more personal than mere copyright in the filing, with the company calling Musk "problematic" himself, and declaring it "did not want Blade Runner 2049 to be affiliated with Musk" or any of his companies. "Any prudent brand considering any Tesla partnership has to take Musk’s massively amplified, highly politicized, capricious and arbitrary behavior, which sometimes veers into hate speech, into account," the filing reads.
Alcon also pointed out it was in negotiations with car brands around its in-production Prime Video Blade Runner 2099 TV series, and that Musk's actions could "cause confusion among Alcon’s potential brand partner customers."
The production company is seeking damages for "economic theft" and aims to "to pry Musk and his co-Defendants away from Alcon’s Blade Runner 2049 brand and goodwill" under the United States Copyright Act and the Lanham Act.
Mashable has reached out to Alcon Entertainment, Tesla, and Warner Bros. Discovery for comment.
We know you're here to find out about the best VPNs for the Fire TV Stick, but first we should explain that the Fire TV Stick is, well, a little stick that you can plug into your HDTV to stream over 10,000 apps, games, and Alexa skills, including Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, Netflix, and more. You can also use it to gain access to millions of websites like YouTube, Facebook, and Reddit.
As an added bonus, you can launch apps and control your content with the Alexa Voice Remote that comes included with your purchase. Just ask for the content you want and Alexa responds. It's as easy as that.
Amazon Prime members get access to even more content options. They get unlimited access to Prime Video, which features thousands of movies and TV episodes at no additional cost. Plus, Prime members can add over 50 premium channels such as Discovery and Eurosport Player.
With all of that content, how could there possibly be a problem? Well, a lot of the shows and movies are just out of reach due to geo-blocking, meaning that certain programmes are only available from a particular location. This can be down to content licensing agreements and broadcast rights, and there doesn't immediately seem to be anything you can do about it. Well friends, we have a solution to this annoying issue.
An effective way of getting around content blocking is to use a VPN. These services can hide your real location when you're online, meaning you enjoy everything that the Fire Stick has to offer without any restrictions.
What is a VPN?Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) provide protection for your online information by creating a private network that hides your real IP address. All of your activity is untraceable and secure, because all of your online traffic passes through an encrypted tunnel. Nobody can view or access anything within the tunnel, meaning everything is protected against online threats like hackers, viruses, and malware.
Do you need to use a VPN?VPNs are effective security tools that provide protection for your sensitive information. The online world can be a dangerous place, so it's important to stay safe out there. Investing in a VPN is a quick and easy way of protecting your data and identity. VPNs might be designed for cybersecurity, but there is another reason you might consider subscribing to a service. These tools can be also be used to access blocked sites.
VPNs hide your real IP address and connect you to a server in another country, meaning you can watch all your favourite content from that location. There is so much content out there that can be accessed with the help of a VPN, and it all comes down to bypassing geo-restrictions. VPNs are kind of like keys to the online world, granting you access to more of the shows and films you love.
What is the best VPN for the Fire TV Stick?At this point you're probably sold on the idea of using a VPN with your Fire TV Stick, but which VPN is the best option for you? We have tried to help you out by highlighting a selection of the very best VPNs, including popular services like ExpressVPN and PureVPN.
There should be something for every user and every budget in this list, and all you need to do is pick a favourite. Consider all of these options and weigh them up against your set of preferences. The top choice should become clear.
These are the best VPNs for the Fire TV Stick in 2024.
It's important to stay secure when browsing online, and while you can take measures to be aware of where you're browsing and what you're doing, using a VPN is the best way to guarantee your cybersecurity.
What is a VPN?Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) provide protection for your data and identity when you're online by creating a private network that hides your real IP address. This means that all of your activity is untraceable and secure. Try thinking about VPNs as encrypted tunnels through which all of your online traffic passes through. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside the tunnel is protected against online threats like viruses, hackers, and malware.
Do you need a VPN?A good quality VPN will block any nefarious traffic coming your way, while also keeping your browsing history private from your ISP and anyone else trying to snoop on your activities. Using a VPN also means you can conduct activities such as checking your online banking while connected to public WiFi, without worrying that you're leaking valuable information.
If you're looking for a VPN for Windows, you'll need a fast service that remains secure. A "no logs" policy and a kill switch are also vital. These ensure that your VPN doesn't track what you do, and that your connection drops if the VPN connection fails, respectively. For Windows 10, it's also useful to have an app that's simple to use.
What is the best VPN for Windows?We have tracked down all the best VPNs for Windows 10, and stuck to VPN services that have apps that are easy to get to grips with, while still offering advanced features for those who want to dip under the surface to make tweaks. You can pick from leading services like CyberGhost VPN, Private Internet Access, and ExpressVPN.
These are the best VPNs for Windows in 2024.
SAVE $150: As of Oct. 22, the Apple iPad Mini (6th Gen) is on sale for $349.99 on Amazon. That's the lowest-ever price on Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Mini (6th Gen) $349.99 at AmazonThere's always a lot of excitement when Apple announces a new model. Most recently, the tech-obsessed have been digging into the specs of the new Apple iPad Mini, with most of the discussion centering on the addition of AI smarts.
That's great, but we're not here to talk about that. We're here to talk about the deals that drop on older models following the release of a new model. Savvy shoppers know that the best time to shop on Apple is just after pre-orders on a shiny new model are available.
SEE ALSO: The new iPad mini is already on sale at Walmart — save $15 on preordersAs of Oct. 22, the Apple iPad Mini (6th Gen) is on sale for $349.99 on Amazon. This deal saves you $150 on list price. And better yet, this is the lowest price we've ever seen on Amazon. This deal is available on Pink, Purple, Starlight, Space Gray colorways. The choice is all yours.
Secure the best price on the Apple iPad Mini (6th Gen) at Amazon.
SAVE $620: As of Oct. 22, the MassaMAX 2024 4D massage chair is on sale for $1,849 at Amazon. That's a 25% saving on list price, and the lowest its ever been on Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: MassaMAX MassaMAX 2024 4D Massage Chair $1,849.00 at AmazonIs there anything more relaxing than treating yourself to a massage? An hour of total relaxation, peace, and, if you opt for the sporty variety, agonizing pain (we know, it's worth it in the end). If you want to invest in your relaxation and take that feeling back home, check out this deal on the MassaMAX 2024 4D massage chair.
As of Oct. 22, this incredible massage chair is reduced to $1,849 from $2,496. Not only that, but it's the lowest it has ever been priced at Amazon, so you know you're getting a great deal.
This massage chair features advanced air-soothing airbags and 4D massage technology. This aims to mimic the experience of a real-life, human massage. As well as this, it has three different levels of airbag pressure, five techniques, and 32 airbag points. It also features an interesting zero-gravity design. This allows for different inclination angles as, according to MassaMAX, when the knees are higher than the chest, it can help reduce spinal compression and improve blood circulation.
SEE ALSO: The best massage guns for percussive therapyIf that wasn't enough, you'll also get foot rollers, an airbag massage that soothes the legs, and a backrest that can stretch the whole upper body.
Tech-wise, it features voice control, a TFT touch screen for ease of use, as well as a Bluetooth speaker so you can play your favorite music when relaxing. Just tell your chair what you want, and the AI will kick in and start the program. There are 15 preset automatic massage programs available, and customization options let you create a personalized experience.
If you're feeling relaxed just reading about this chair, head to Amazon as this is a limited-time deal.
FREE E-BOOKS: On Oct. 22, hundreds of e-books are completely free on Amazon for Stuff Your Kindle Day. Shop historical romance books for free today.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Free Kindle E-Books on Stuff Your Kindle Day Get DealStuff Your Kindle Day is back and we couldn't be happier. There are few things in life better than free books, especially when there's no catch.
For those not in the know, Stuff Your Kindle Day is an author-driven event hosted that started as an initiative to encourage readers to check out novels by indie authors. It only lasts for one day, but when you "purchase" a book, it's yours forever.
The books available span several genres, but romance is very much at the forefront. That doesn't mean there's no variety though. There is a wide range of subgenres spanning nearly every topic on offer, with something for every bookworm.
SEE ALSO: Amazon Kindle vs. Kindle Paperwhite: Which one is for you?If historical romances are your thing, you're in luck. Check out some of these incredible options you can download for free.
Best historical romance to shop during Stuff Your Kindle DayKissing The Contessa by Sapphire Lebesque — $0 $2.99
Mistress In Disguise by Sapphire Lebesque — $0 $1.49
The Fiercest Knight In Surrey by Anne Knight — $0 $2.99
Rosalyn by Carrie Lomax — $0 $3.99
Seductive Silence by Larissa Lyons — $0 $3.99
Quinn by Kathryn LeBlanc — $0 $2.99
Etched In Stone by Veronique Wallrapp — $0 $5.99
POX by Angela Pearse — $0 $4.99
The Duke Of Devastation by Michelle Mignone — $0 $4.70
Love's Arrival by Amanda Speights — $0 $9.95
Rebel Mine by Lyn Horner — $0 $3.99
What A Duke Desires by Merry Farmer — $0 $4.99
Scientists didn't build the James Webb Space Telescope simply to find answers. They've sought new questions and mysteries.
And they've just found another.
Using the Webb telescope to peer back into the earliest periods of the universe, researchers spotted a handful of some of the brightest objects in the cosmos — quasars — adrift in the empty voids of space, isolated from other galaxies. This is strange. Quasars are black holes at galactic centers, millions to billions times more massive than the sun, that shoot potent bursts of energy into space (from material falling toward or rapidly spinning around black holes). The prevailing, and logical, theory was that such massive, hungry objects could only form in regions of dense matter.
But that's not always the case.
"Contrary to previous belief, we find on average, these quasars are not necessarily in those highest-density regions of the early universe. Some of them seem to be sitting in the middle of nowhere," Anna-Christina Eilers, a physicist at MIT who led the research, said in a statement. "It’s difficult to explain how these quasars could have grown so big if they appear to have nothing to feed from."
SEE ALSO: NASA scientist viewed first Voyager images. What he saw gave him chills.The research was recently published in a science journal called the Astrophysical Journal.
In the image below, you can see one of these isolated quasars, circled in red. Astronomers expect to find quasars amid regions flush with other galaxies. There, bounties of cosmic matter could support the creation of such giant and luminous objects. (In fact, "a quasar’s light outshines that of all the stars in its host galaxy combined," NASA explains.)
An isolated quasar in deep space, circled in red. Credit: Christina Eilers / EIGER teamIn this research, astronomers endeavored to view some of the oldest objects in the universe, created some 600 to 700 million years after the Big Bang. For perspective, our solar system wouldn't form for another 8.5 billion years or so.
The Webb telescope, which orbits 1 million miles from Earth, captures profoundly faint, stretched-out light as it existed eons ago. This light is just reaching us now.
"It’s just phenomenal that we now have a telescope that can capture light from 13 billion years ago in so much detail," Eilers said. "For the first time, JWST enabled us to look at the environment of these quasars, where they grew up, and what their neighborhood was like."
"It’s just phenomenal that we now have a telescope that can capture light from 13 billion years ago in so much detail."This latest cosmic quandary is not just about how these quasars formed in isolation, but how they formed so rapidly. "The main question we’re trying to answer is, how do these billion-solar-mass black holes form at a time when the universe is still really, really young? It’s still in its infancy," Eilers said.
Although the Webb telescope is designed to peer through the thick clouds of dust and gas in the universe, the researchers do say it's possible that these enigmatic quasars are in fact surrounded by galaxies — but the galaxies are shrouded. To find out, more observation with Webb is necessary.
An artist's illustration of the James Webb Space Telescope observing the cosmos 1 million miles from Earth. Credit: NASA-GSFC / Adriana M. Gutierrez (CI Lab) The Webb telescope's powerful abilitiesThe Webb telescope — a scientific collaboration between NASA, ESA, and the Canadian Space Agency — is designed to peer into the deepest cosmos and reveal new insights about the early universe. It's also examining intriguing planets in our galaxy, along with the planets and moons in our solar system.
Here's how Webb is achieving unparalleled feats, and likely will for decades to come:
- Giant mirror: Webb's mirror, which captures light, is over 21 feet across. That's over two-and-a-half times larger than the Hubble Space Telescope's mirror. Capturing more light allows Webb to see more distant, ancient objects. The telescope is peering at stars and galaxies that formed over 13 billion years ago, just a few hundred million years after the Big Bang. "We're going to see the very first stars and galaxies that ever formed," Jean Creighton, an astronomer and the director of the Manfred Olson Planetarium at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, told Mashable in 2021.
- Infrared view: Unlike Hubble, which largely views light that's visible to us, Webb is primarily an infrared telescope, meaning it views light in the infrared spectrum. This allows us to see far more of the universe. Infrared has longer wavelengths than visible light, so the light waves more efficiently slip through cosmic clouds; the light doesn't as often collide with and get scattered by these densely packed particles. Ultimately, Webb's infrared eyesight can penetrate places Hubble can't.
"It lifts the veil," said Creighton.
- Peering into distant exoplanets: The Webb telescope carries specialized equipment called spectrographs that will revolutionize our understanding of these far-off worlds. The instruments can decipher what molecules (such as water, carbon dioxide, and methane) exist in the atmospheres of distant exoplanets — be they gas giants or smaller rocky worlds. Webb looks at exoplanets in the Milky Way galaxy. Who knows what we'll find?
"We might learn things we never thought about," Mercedes López-Morales, an exoplanet researcher and astrophysicist at the Center for Astrophysics-Harvard & Smithsonian, told Mashable in 2021.
Already, astronomers have successfully found intriguing chemical reactions on a planet 700 light-years away, and have started looking at one of the most anticipated places in the cosmos: the rocky, Earth-sized planets of the TRAPPIST solar system.
TL;DR: Get ahead of hurricane season with lifetime access to Weather Hi-Def Radar for just $29.97 until October 27.
With recent hurricanes severely impacting Florida and other areas, staying informed about the weather is more important than ever. Weather Hi-Def Radar offers a Storm Watch Plus lifetime subscription to high-definition storm tracking, so you can keep tabs on hurricanes, thunderstorms, and more with accuracy.
For a one-time fee of $29.97 — discounted through October 27 — you'll get live radar updates, giving you an early edge to help prepare and protect your home and loved ones.
Weather Hi-Def Radar offers more than just basic forecasts. With a variety of radar layers, you can track storm paths, monitor precipitation levels, and even pinpoint lightning strikes. It’s a powerful tool to help you see what’s happening in your area — and what’s on its way. The app’s customizable alerts ensure you’re aware of dangerous conditions as they develop, allowing you to take action when needed.
From hurricane paths to local thunderstorms, Weather Hi-Def Radar provides detailed insights that go beyond your standard weather app. Whether you’re concerned about local conditions or tracking a storm from afar, you’ll have vital info to make informed decisions during the storm season.
Until October 27 at 11:59 p.m. PT, get a lifetime subscription to Weather Hi-Def Radar Storm Watch Plus on sale for $29.97 and stay informed.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Maple Media Weather Hi-Def Radar Storm Watch Plus: Lifetime Subscription $29.97TL;DR: Explore the outdoors in style with the Phantom Scout off-road electric cart for $9,999.99 (reg. $12,499), perfect for eco-friendly adventures.
Looking for an off-road adventure without the gas fumes? The Phantom Scout 4-Person Off-Road Electric Cart is here to take you and your friends on an eco-friendly ride through the trails.
This all-electric cart isn’t just about fun — it’s built tough to handle rough terrain while keeping things green, thanks to its electric powertrain. Marked down 19% to $9,999.99 (reg. $12,499), you can hit the great outdoors with power and style, all without compromising on the environment.
Designed for comfort and adventure, the Phantom Scout seats up to four passengers, making it ideal for family outings or group adventures. With a high ground clearance and rugged tires, it can tackle trails, dirt roads, and sandy paths with ease. The cart is equipped with LED lights, so you can explore from sunrise to sunset — and even into the night.
One of the best parts? It’s super quiet, letting you enjoy nature without the usual roar of an engine. With a range of up to 25 miles on a single charge, you’ll have plenty of time to explore before needing to plug back in. Plus, the built-in suspension system means a smoother ride, even over bumpy ground.
The Phantom Scout is ready for whatever your outdoor plans are, from forest trails to beach outings. If you’re looking to go off-road in a sustainable way, this electric cart has you covered.
Gather your crew, charge it up, and set out on your next adventure with the Phantom Scout 6-Seater Off-Road Electric Golf Cart on sale for $9,999.99.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Phantom Phantom Scout 6-Seater Off-Road Electric Golf Cart $9,999.99TL;DR: Stay charged wherever you are with the MOGICS Power Bagel Travel Power Strip, now available for $36.99 (reg. $49).
Compact and portable, so you can keep it in your bag without a second thought
Three AC outlets, ready to handle your laptop, hair dryer, or camera
Three USB ports to keep your phone, tablet, and gadgets juiced up
Surge protection for peace of mind — your devices stay safe even with unexpected power bumps
360-degree rotating plug that’s perfect for those awkward outlets
Works anywhere in the world, from 110V to 220V, no adapters needed
Perfect travel buddy for staying charged at airports, cafes, and hotels
Stay connected and powered up wherever you go with the MOGICS Power Bagel Travel Power Strip, available now for just $36.99, down 24% from $49.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: Mogics MOGICS Power Bagel: Travel Power Strip $36.99TL;DR: For only $16.99, BlueSnap enables Bluetooth audio on your devices, turning them wireless.
Got an old speaker or TV that you wish had Bluetooth? With the BlueSnap Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter and Receiver, you can bring wireless audio to just about any device. It’s an easy and affordable way to turn old tech into something new, letting you stream from your phone, tablet, or laptop with ease for $16.99 (reg. $31).
BlueSnap gives you two-way Bluetooth capability, so you can connect to non-Bluetooth devices as a transmitter or pair with your Bluetooth headphones as a receiver.
All you have to do is plug it into your device, and you’re ready to go. It supports a range of devices, from TVs and stereos to car sound systems and wired headphones. And with Bluetooth 5.0, you’ll get clear, uninterrupted audio whether you’re jamming out at home or on the go.
The BlueSnap transmitter is small but powerful. In transmit mode, you can connect your non-Bluetooth TV to wireless speakers or headphones for private listening. In receive mode, you can send audio from your phone to a set of wired headphones or an older car stereo. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 10 hours, so you can keep the tunes going without needing to recharge it constantly.
If you’re looking for a quick, affordable way to upgrade your audio setup, BlueSnap is a simple, versatile solution.
Bring Bluetooth to your favorite gear and enjoy wireless freedom wherever you go with the BlueSnap Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter and Receiver for 3.5mm AUX on sale for $16.99 (reg. $31).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Opens in a new window Credit: KeySmart BlueSnap Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter & Receiver for 3.5mm AUX $16.99If AI needs a publicist, Refik Anadol wouldn’t be a bad candidate. The Turkish-born professor and artist sees artificial intelligence as a boon to the world, not just through greater efficiency and scientific advances, but as a new conduit to create beauty. His newest project, along with co-founder Efsun Erkılıç, is Dataland, a 20,000 square foot museum of AI-generated art opening next year in downtown Los Angeles — and it places his faith in the technology front and center.
Dataland’s installations are drawn from its exclusive Large Nature Model, a prototype that only uses data from the natural world and was sourced with records and images from the Smithsonian, London’s Natural History Museum, and the Cornell Lab of Orinthology. The nature-first emphasis is a running theme with Dataland, which conducted its AI research via Google servers running on renewable energy.
SEE ALSO: How generative AI will affect the creator economyAs Anadol tells Mashable, he hopes his museum encourages patrons and tech companies to prioritize sustainability. The artist — who is one of the preeminent leaders of AI art and has exhibited pieces at MoMa and the Centre Pompidou-Metz in France — answered more of our questions on his vision for Dataland and his optimistic view of AI's potential.
Mashable: Let’s start with the basics. How do you define AI art?Refik Anadol: For me, AI art is much more than a tool — it’s a creative collaboration between human imagination and machine intelligence.
When I work with algorithms and data, I’m not just trying to generate something new; I’m exploring the limitless possibilities that arise when humans and machines come together to create. It’s a practice that breaks down the boundaries of traditional art. It offers fresh perspectives on how we perceive creativity and the role of technology in shaping our world. This fusion of human intuition and machine intelligence allows us to push the boundaries of artistic expression and see the world in ways we’ve never imagined before.
Tell us a bit about Dataland’s AI model, the Large Nature Model. How does it differ from most previous models, and how does it work?The Large Nature Model is unique because it is the world’s first AI model trained solely on data from the natural world, using information from institutions such as the Smithsonian and London’s Natural History Museum. Unlike other large language AI models that are trained on human intellect and reasoning, this model is trained on nature’s inherent intelligence. The goal of our model is to capture the essence and complexity of the natural world and to generate unique art pieces.
The model also emphasizes ethical data collection and transparency. As the creators of the model, we secured permission for all of the scientific materials we used to train the model and ensured that the model was trained using renewable energy. The Large Nature Model also goes beyond visual art by incorporating other sensory elements, such as sound and scent.
The future home of the Dataland museum in Los Angeles. Credit: Courtesy Dataland How did the collaborations with institutions like the Smithsonian and the Natural History Museum of London come together? Was there any resistance to them allowing their data to be used?Collaborations with institutions like the Smithsonian and the Natural History Museum of London began with a shared passion for blending art, technology, and archival data. I wouldn’t say there was resistance, but, instead, an eagerness on their part to learn more about the ethical applications of AI before fully collaborating, and we deeply appreciated that.
Every institution should question and learn — this push for greater digital literacy benefits everyone. It also challenges practitioners like myself to rethink, revise, and clarify our approaches, ensuring that the use of AI is both responsible and purpose-driven.
By presenting a creative vision aligned with their educational missions and addressing concerns around data sensitivity, any initial hesitation was transformed into trust. These collaborations not only advanced the field of AI art, but also helped enhance public engagement with the institutions’ collections, showing the powerful potential of data when used thoughtfully and ethically.
Dataland presents AI as an advancement to be celebrated as well as studied. What do you say to those who only have negative or fearful impressions of the technology?At Dataland, we truly believe that AI is an incredible opportunity — something to be celebrated, explored, and studied. I understand that some people may have fears or negative impressions of the technology, and that’s exactly why we created Dataland as a space for open dialogue and discovery. It’s a place where we can explore AI’s immense potential to enhance creativity and connect us with new forms of art, rather than seeing it as something to be feared.
We believe in the power of education, transparency, and ethical data practices. By showing how AI can be used responsibly, in ways that are environmentally conscious and human-centered, we hope to shift perceptions. Our goal is to demonstrate that AI isn’t here to replace human creativity, but to collaborate with it — opening up entirely new artistic possibilities.
It’s my hope that DATALAND can inspire people to see AI not just as a tool, but as a creative partner that can unlock new ways of thinking and engaging with the world around us.
SEE ALSO: An entire NFT museum is on the market With the Large Nature Model and your studio’s eco-friendly servers, Dataland puts environmental concerns front and center. How can tech companies be convinced to make sustainability a priority?At Dataland, we believe that environmental sustainability must be at the heart of technological progress, especially with innovations like AI that impact the entire globe. With the Large Nature Model and our studio’s eco-friendly servers powered entirely by renewable energy, we’re committed to demonstrating that technology can coexist with environmental responsibility.
To truly make sustainability a priority across the tech industry, it’s essential for companies to collaborate not only with experts within their sector but also with researchers, global organizations, and policymakers outside of it. This is a technology that touches every part of the world, and it requires a large-scale, global approach. It’s about creating a shared vision. By prioritizing these values, we can encourage the tech industry to adopt practices that aren’t just beneficial in the short term but sustainable in the long run.
There are hundreds of different headphones and earbuds in varying shapes, sizes, styles, colors, and of course, prices. These days, you can grab a random pair off the digital shelf without too much research and find that they do the job just fine.
However, if you're tired of settling for "just fine" when it comes to the gadgets that you use for hours every day, then it's worth investing in the best headphones. Through hours and hours of listening, we sorted through dozens of headphones to find the very best models.
How to choose the best headphones for youWe won't beat around the bush: There's no definitive "best" product here. Sure, elite headphones brands like Bose, Sony, and Apple put out high-quality products across the board, but even within each of those brands, you'll find different tiers of products. Some will deliver better value, and some will deliver better hardware and performance.
SEE ALSO: Review: Dyson's new headphones have awe-inspiring features and a clunky designAll this to say, the best pair of earbuds or headphones largely comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use them. Some listeners swear by over-ear headphones while others prefer the minimalism of earbuds — one is not necessarily better than the other. Athletes who like to use headphones at the gym will appreciate waterproof materials and certifications, while frequent fliers will prefer devices with a long battery life, comfort, and portability. Finally, music lovers and audiophiles will want to invest in premium features like a custom equalizer, spatial audio, or best-in-class active noise cancellation.
If you're worried about the price tags on this list, we get it. In our experience, the headphones on this list are usually on sale during shopping events like Prime Day and Black Friday. But if you need to buy a new pair before then, everything here is a good value.
To help you pick, we tested all of the headphones in this guide (and a lot that didn't make the cut) to bring you the best for noise cancellation, music, budget shoppers, and wired connections. So, read on to find the perfect new pair of headphones or earbuds.
Best noise-cancelling headphones: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones $429.00 at AmazonRead our full review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones.
Who it's for:If you're looking for a headphone experience built around top-of-the-line ANC, all-day wear, and premium features, you'll find that in the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones. Yes, they're an investment — for what it's worth, they're still a good deal less than the AirPods Max on sale — so they might not be for everyone, but for those who wear their headphones more often than not, it could very well be worth it.
And if you need more convincing, we also named these Bose headphones our top pick for the best noise-cancelling headphones for flying.
Why we picked this:Due to our prior experience with the QuietComfort line, we weren't at all surprised that these QuietComfort headphones delivered all-day wear without issue. What we were impressed with was that they were noticeably even more comfortable than past QuietComfort headphones, never squeezing our ears from the sides, or weighing down on the top of our head even after hours of use. Even with glasses on, they never felt too tight or heavy, despite being over-ear headphones with earcups that sealed out sound. Speaking of sound, it always came out well-rounded and functioned well with the immersive audio (which, by the way, is a new feature for the QuietComfort line). Mashable Shopping Reporter Samantha Mangino deemed the Ultras "the most comfortable headphones I've ever worn" in her review.
They don't have adjustable ANC like the discontinued Bose-700s, but the one ANC level definitely sits at the higher end of what's available on the market, though it will shine the most with lower-pitched tones (for higher tones, a bit of music or a podcast will go a long way in assisting the built-in noise cancellation). Mangino did find that the slightly looser fit of these headphones means there's less of a tight seal on the earcups — that helps with comfort, but it sacrifices some noise-cancelling efficacy.
As for the major downsides, these headphones are expensive at $429 (though you can find them on sale), so we expected a lot out of them. The pairing can be a little touch and go at times and completely fine at others — that definitely dampens the premium feel. A small consolation is that this inconsistency is characteristic of other Bose headphones we've tested, but we wish it was a feature they fixed in the Ultras.
The most baffling flaw of these headphones is the lack of passive playback, meaning you have to turn on the headphones to use the wired connection. Though these are clearly meant to be wireless headphones first and foremost, this feels like a weird oversight (and a deviation from older models). Still, on balance, we think they justify the investment — they're really comfortable.
Battery life: 24 hours | Colors: White, black, sandstone, lunar blue
Best sound-first headphones: Sony WH-1000XM5 Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones $398.00 at AmazonRead our full review on the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.
Who it's for:For music lovers, we have to recommend the latest flagship Sony headphones. The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones deliver top-notch ANC and audiophile-level sound quality, with a hefty 30-hour battery life. Their design offers a less expensive alternative to the AirPods Max, for those who like their headphones to sound and look good.
Why we picked this:Often, people herald Bose as having the superior ANC but Sony as owning the sound space. Our Deputy Shopping and Reviews Editor Miller Kern definitely noticed that these headphones excelled in the latter arena when she tested them out: "[The sound] is full and clear, and feels like surround sound. I’m a big fan of power ballads (I’m not allowed to pick the music at parties), and Brandi Carlile’s 'Right on Time' sounded like it was meant to be listened to on these headphones. The vocals and instruments all got to shine, and the headphones made it feel like I was there in the studio. These are probably the best-sounding headphones I’ve ever tried." The Sony companion app equalizer also allows plenty of fine-tuning, and guides the less-audio savvy among us to figure out the settings they prefer with the "find your equalizer" feature.
The active noise cancellation is also still pretty stellar, despite usually falling second in line to Bose. It'll do a great job of significantly reducing the bulk of noises during a workday, like loud typing or chatty coworkers. The touch controls on the right ear cup can be a bit finicky at first, but once you get the hang of it, are easy to use to start and stop music, as well as adjust the volume. Plus, unlike the Bose Ultras, the Bluetooth connection and multipoint pairing work without a hitch.
We do wish they folded up so they weren't so bulky to take on the go, but it's a relatively small con compared to the pros, especially if you're planning on wearing these headphones all day long. As for buying advice, these headphones do go on sale less often than others on this list like the Bose QC Ultras, but they also cost less at full price than the Ultras.
Battery life: 30 hours | Colors: Black, blue, silver
Best noise-cancelling earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro Apple AirPods Pro $269.99 at WalmartRead our full review of the second-generation USB-C AirPods Pro.
Who it's for:If portability, active noise cancellation, and balanced sound are what you're looking for, your search ends with the AirPods Pro. It's not uncommon for earbuds to have active noise cancellation, but the AirPods Pro deliver an impressive performance. Plus they're versatile — whether you like to wear your headphones around the house, on a run, or as you're falling asleep at night, the AirPods Pro fit the bill. For obvious reasons, they're also the best headphones for iPhone users.
As of September 2024, Apple announced two new features to the AirPod Pros, which include a hearing test and hearing aid feature. Both new additions are part of Apple doubling down on hearing health, which may be appealing to users with or concerned about hearing loss.
Why we picked this:Last year, Apple finally gave their AirPods Pro a much-needed upgrade in the form of a USB-C charger. Other than the charging port, they're identical to the second-gen Pros released in 2022, which Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder described as "the first pair of earbuds I'd actually consider taking on an airplane (instead of my much larger and clunkier over-ear headphones)." He went on to say "In some aspects, the active noise cancellation was even better than on my daily drivers: B&W's excellent PX7 over-ear headphones."
Despite their size and enhanced ANC, the Pro's battery still lasts for up to six hours on a single charge and 30 hours overall with the case. However, it is worth noting that the battery life will noticeably decline after a few years.
These earbuds are so frequently on sale that we don't recommend buying them at their full $249 price tag. You can often find them at Amazon (and Walmart) marked down to at least $199. If you want a true sale price, we recommend waiting until they hit $189 or lower.
Battery life: 6 hours per charge (30 hours with case) | Colors: White
Best AirPods alternative: Beats Studio Buds + Beats Studio Buds + $149.99 at AmazonIf you're into earbuds with good ANC but less into shelling out $249, you'll find your happy medium in the Beats Studio Buds +. There's a reason we've consistently named them the best AirPods alternative.
Why we picked this:The AirPods Pro are great, but these popular wireless earbuds aren't in everyone's budget. These Beats will run you about $80 less (or more, if you catch them on sale), give you some more leeway with color options, integrate just as well into an Apple ecosystem as AirPods, have the same battery life as AirPods, and still deliver pretty good ANC. If you're into a more bass-heavy sound, you'll definitely be happy with them. We've seen them drop down to $129.95 regularly at Amazon, making them an even more affordable AirPod alternative.
While we didn't find them to be a one-to-one experience during our testing — you should expect the AirPods to block out more noise, and we missed wireless charging — they were still incredibly comfortable. We also found them to fit better than AirPods, so if those Apple earbuds usually slip out of your ears, you'll want to try these buds instead. And for Android users, Google Fast Pair makes these earbuds a much better option than AirPods.
We do want to mention that if $169.95 is still fairly steep, you can also get ANC through Amazon's Echo Buds for just $119.99. (Echo Buds were our former budget pick, but we found the Beats have more to offer all-around.) For another solid option in the budget wireless earbuds space, try the Anker Soundcore Life P3i earbuds, which offer ANC and great battery life for under $50. Though, they do lack multipoint pairing and have a less rich sound profile than Beats earbuds.
Battery life: 6 hours with ANC, 9 without (27 hours with charging case) | Colors: Ivory, black, transparent, silver
Best workout headphones: Beats Fit Pro Beats Fit Pro $199.00 at AmazonRead our full review of the Beats Fit Pro.
Who it's for:When it comes to workout headphones, you need a pair that'll actually stay in your ears. Motivating yourself to get through a set of push-ups is hard enough without an earbud popping out. The Beats Fit Pro earbuds are more than up to the task, and they deliver exceptional battery life, sound quality, and a few extras.
Why we picked this:Earbuds designed for exercise typically have some sort of wingtip to help hold them in place, but those wingtips can often squeeze uncomfortably on your ears, especially with longer-term use. The small wingtip of these Beats hits the sweet spot — they're large enough to provide hold, and small enough to be undetectable. Mashable tech reporter Alex Perry writes that the wingtips "result [in] a pair of earbuds that never feel like they're going to fall out and, more importantly, never intrude on your comfort. I've worn these bad boys for six straight hours without any problems. It's hard to ask for more than that."
Beyond comfort, these earbuds provide an impressive sound profile, including that deep bass that Beats are known for. And of course, as any workout earbuds should be, these earbuds are sweat and water-resistant with an IPX4 rating. As an added bonus, the Fit Pros also have great active noise cancellation. Although that's by no means essential for a pair of earbuds you'll be wearing while you exercise, it is nice that they have they have fitness-oriented features while being flexible enough to be a great all-around earbud.
All of these features do together factor into these earbuds $200 price tag, but if you're looking to pay a little less, we recommend waiting for them to go on sale — with a little patience, you can grab them at Amazon for $20 or $40 off.
Battery life: 6 hours (24 hours with case) | Colors: Black, white, coral, gray, purple, blue, yellow, tan, brown, beige
Best wired earbuds: Marshall Mode Marshall Mode earbuds $37.81 at AmazonThere are a lot of good reasons to consider wired earbuds. Some people simply don't want the hassle of constantly charging their headphones. Fair enough. Some people want impressive audio quality without shelling out $100 or more, and some simply aren't buying what Big Bluetooth is selling. For shoppers who fall into any of the above groups, we recommend the affordable Marshall Mode earbuds.
Why we picked this:Though they're only $60 (and usually on sale for less than $40), Marshall Mode earbuds deliver better sound than most wireless earbuds that are triple the price. The bass is clear but not overpowering, and the highs bright but never too thin or tinny-sounding.
As for how you sound on the headphone's built-in mic, friends we spoke to on the phone said we came through with perfect clarity (the same can't be said for our tester's two-and-a-half year-old first-generation AirPods Pro). Lower down on the wire is a separate remote, so you can pause and play your audio or hang up your calls without fiddling around with the mic. If you're sensing a theme, these earbuds are well-designed, and that comes through in how they wear and store.
During our testing, we had no trouble with the wire tangling, and it never felt too long during everyday wear. The buds themselves come with three ear tip sizes and wear comfortably all day. If you're not a fan of the shape of AirPods, then you're likely to find these a better shape for actually keeping your earbuds situated in your ears. There is one major downside with these wired earbuds, however. Unlike their more expensive wired counterparts, Marshall's don't come with a replaceable wire, so you'll want to take extra care to be as gentle as you can with the wire to extend its lifespan.
Battery life: N/A | Colors: Black
How we tested the best headphonesOver the years, we've tested out a lot of headphones and wireless earbuds at Mashable. To determine the best of the best, and not just pick what's trendy at the moment, we went back through our reviews from former and current tech reporters, editors, and shopping reporters. From JBL and Sony to Samsung and Anker Soundcore, we did our research to make sure we left no major headphone stone unturned, and the result is this guide — our favorite vetted and tested headphones of 2024.
All of the headphones in this guide were hands-on tested. In making our selections, we weighed:
Sound: Since headphones are first and foremost a way for you to listen to audio, if a pair of headphones didn't sound good, they didn't make the list — that goes for our budget pick, too.
Noise cancellation: These days, some form of noise cancellation is near-essential for any pair of headphones. We prioritized models that feature solid noise cancellation.
Comfort: What's the point of a great pair of headphones if they're too uncomfortable to wear?
Customization: Whether it be for ANC levels, transparency modes, or touch controls, headphones that allow you to adjust the settings will make them feel like they were made for you.
Battery life: Most wireless headphones on the market rely on Bluetooth connectivity, so having a battery you can rely on for at least a few hours of listening time is key.
Special features: When testing headphones and earbuds, we also take into consideration any other special features they offer. For headphones in the $200-plus price range, we expect at least a few special features.
You might notice that the Apple AirPods Max are missing from our top picks. It's not that we don't like them — in fact, we think they sound and look great. But when we reviewed them, we found that they didn't have a practical storage option, they never really turn off (thus draining the otherwise long battery life), and are just too expensive to justify a wholehearted recommendation. We understand if you like them regardless, but personally, we think there are better options at lower price points.
Recent testing updatesAs of Feb. 2024, two of our former recommendations, the Skullcandy Sesh Evo earbuds and Sennheiser IE 300 have been discontinued. We're in the process of testing new headphones to take their place, and we chose the Marshall Mode earbuds as our new budget pick for earbuds. We also added in the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones as an upgrade recommendation in March 2024.
From April to May 2024, we also tested the Marshall Major V headphones and Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 headphones, both of which had excellent sound profiles and easy-to-navigate custom equalizers on their companion apps. Ultimately, they didn't make the cut on our final list for a couple of reasons. With the Major V headphones, we love that their claim of 100+ hours of battery life held up under our testing, but we found them to get uncomfortable after a couple of hours. We also would have appreciated ANC at their $149 price point.
For the B&W headphones, we loved their design and premium feel in addition to their truly impressive sound, but we found that their ANC was only so-so. If you're willing to spend $399, you can find a better balance of sound and ANC in the Sony XM5 headphones.
We've also tested the Sonos Ace headphones and Dyson OnTrac headphones. And while we loved them both for sound quality and noise cancellation, they fare in the way of AirPods Max — left out of our recommendations for their high price points.
As of June 2024, we've removed the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones as they're officially discontinued and unavailable online. In Aug. 2024, the Bose 700 headphones met the same fate, so we've removed them as our pick for the best noise-cancelling headphones. In their place, we're recommending the Bose QC Ultra headphones, which were formerly our top pick for best premium noise-cancelling headphones.
In September 2024, Apple announced the release of the AirPods 4. While we've yet to test this new generation of AirPods, we're eager to experience their noise cancellation feature, seeing how they stack up against Apple's AirPods Pro.
FREE E-BOOKS: On Oct. 22, hundreds of e-books are completely free on Amazon for Stuff Your Kindle Day. Shop these fantasy and paranormal romance books for free today.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Free Kindle E-Books on Stuff Your Kindle Day Get DealWhoever coined the phrase "nothing in life comes free" never anticipated Stuff Your Kindle Day. It's normal to be skeptical of anything claiming to be completely free, but in this case, there's no need to be. On Oct. 22, a wide selection of romance novels of all subgenres will be available to download for free.
But why? Well, Stuff Your Kindle Day is an author-driven event hosted by Romance Book Lovers that hopes to encourage readers to check out novels by indie authors. It's only for one day, but the e-books are yours to keep forever.
SEE ALSO: Amazon Kindle vs. Kindle Paperwhite: Which one is for you?There's something for everyone, and if fantasy and paranormal is your subgenre of choice, check out some of these incredible options you can download for free.
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FREE E-BOOKS: On Oct. 22, hundreds of e-books are completely free on Amazon for Stuff Your Kindle Day. Shop these sweet and clean romance books for free today.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Free Kindle E-Books on Stuff Your Kindle Day Get DealStuff Your Kindle Day is back again and there are thousands of books to be downloaded for free.
If you missed out on previous iterations of this offering, Stuff Your Kindle Day is a 24-hour event where you can pick up as many romance novels as you like for free. Yes, you read that correctly. The latest event is hosted by Romance Book Lovers, with books from a huge range of subgenres on offer. So if you like history, some fantasy, or even a bit of paranormal romance, there's something for everyone.
SEE ALSO: Amazon Kindle vs. Kindle Paperwhite: Which one is for you?But if you're just looking for some classic, sweet, and clean romance novels, there are so many options for you. Here's a pick of some of the best free sweet and clean romance books you can download for free.
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