Blogroll

Amazon deal of the day: Save 20% on the very good Samsung Galaxy Buds FE

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 18:25
Amazon deals of the day at a glance: OUR TOP PICK Samsung Galaxy Buds FE $79.99 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal BEST BLUETOOTH TRACKER DEAL AirTags (4-pack) $79.99 at Amazon (save $19.01 with on-page coupon) Get Deal BEST SECURITY CAMERA DEAL Blink Outdoor 4 3-camera system $149.99 at Amazon (save $110) Get Deal BEST ROBOT VACUUM DEAL Shark Matrix self-emptying robot vacuum (AV2310AE) $369.99 at Amazon (save $80) Get Deal BEST AIR PURIFIER DEAL Coway Airmega Mighty air purifier (AP-1512HH) $159.50 at Amazon (save $70.49) Get Deal

Got retail therapy on the mind? Head on over to Amazon to save some money on your splurges. Whether you're looking for a Bluetooth tracker for your upcoming travels or a robot vacuum or air purifier to help with spring cleaning, there's something in the mix for you.

We've sorted through the noise and handpicked some impressive discounts to shop on April 9. Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day. And don't sleep on the deals from April 8, as some of those are still live as well.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Amazon deal of the day: Samsung Galaxy Buds FE $79.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

Mashable's reviewer RJ Andersen was pleasantly surprised with how great the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE performed in her testing. "The sound quality from the Galaxy Buds FE is unmatched for earbuds at this price range. Even Apple users should consider buying them, though they do pair nicer with Android devices," she wrote in her review of the buds. Already pretty affordable at full price ($99.99), you can snag a pair on sale for only $79.99 as of April 9. That's 20% in savings and just $10 away from their lowest price ever.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Matrix self-emptying robot vacuum (AV2310AE) $369.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal

For a hands-off cleaning experience on a budget, look no further than the Shark Matrix self-emptying robot vacuum. With smart navigation, Matrix Clean technology, a detailed home mapping system, and the ability to self-empty after each clean, you can kick back and watch TV as the Shark AV2310AE does the dirty work. Its bagless base can hold up to 45 days of dirt and debris, so you can basically set it and forget it for a month and a half. As of April 9, it's on sale for just $369.99 at Amazon — that's $80 off its retail price and its lowest price to date. It's worth mentioning, however, that Walmart's version of this vac is $40 cheaper and is essentially the same minus the base capacity (it can only hold 30 days of debris, so you'll have to empty it more often).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirTags (4-pack) $79.99 at Amazon
$99.00 Save $19.01 with on-page coupon Get Deal

Traveling this summer? Investing in Bluetooth trackers can be a real lifesaver — and if you're an iPhone user, we'd highly recommend Apple AirTags. Rather than simply relying on a Bluetooth range from your smartphone, AirTags calibrate their location as long as there's an Apple device with Find My enabled nearby (which, let's face it, there always is). That's why they're so great for finding lost luggage during trips. A single AirTag can run you $29, which means it would cost $116 to buy four separately. This four-pack deal for just $79.99 essentially gets you one-and-a-quarter AirTags for free. It's not the lowest price to date — that honor goes to the $74.98 deal from Black Friday 2022 — but it's still a total steal. Just be sure to select the $5 on-page coupon to get the best price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Coway Coway Airmega Mighty air purifier (AP-1512HH) $159.50 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $70.49 Get Deal

Our favorite air purifier, the Coway Airmega Mighty, is back down to its lowest price in three months. We can't decide what's cleaner: the modern design or the air the Coway Mighty pushes out. It won't stick out like a sore thumb against your home decor, which is always a plus. The purifier features a four-stage filtration system with a 99.7% HEPA efficient rating and can clean the air in a space of up to 361 square feet. It's equipped with an auto mode that will optimize the settings based on your air quality and an eco mode that conserves energy by shutting off when it detects no air pollution for 30 minutes. At $159.50, it's not quite the lowest price ever — that honor goes to its $139.99 deal from Black Friday — but it price-matches its Big Spring Sale price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Blink Blink Outdoor 4 (4th gen) 3-camera system $149.99 at Amazon
$259.99 Save $110.00 Get Deal

One of our top picks for a security camera, the Blink Outdoor can't be beat when it comes to battery life. Pop in AAs and don't worry about changing them for two whole years. It works seamlessly with other Alexa-enabled devices, given that it's made by Amazon. Plus, it comes with customizable motion zones without the need for a subscription (although, a Blink subscription will enable you to save and share clips in the cloud and utilize person detection features). A three-pack of these babies is on sale for just $149.99 — that's 42% off and just $15 away from its lowest price ever. Not to mention it's currently cheaper than buying a two-pack.

None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.

Categories: IT General, Technology

X passkeys are now global. Here's how you can use Face ID, Touch ID to sign in.

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 18:12

UPDATE: Apr. 9, 2024, 11:37 a.m. EDT X has rolled out passkeys for users worldwide on iOS now. Read on to learn more about the feature and how to use it:

Sick of always manually typing in your password on Elon Musk's X? Do multiple people in your household use your devices so things like password managers aren't always the most secure?

Well, if you're an X user with an iOS device, you're in luck. The platform formerly known as Twitter just launched its passkeys login option for iPhone and iPad users.

Tweet may have been deleted

What does this mean for you? Face ID or Touch ID can now be used to login to your X account instead of a password.

How to set up Face ID or Touch ID on X

The steps to setup Passkeys on X for iOS are fairly simple. Mashable was able to set it up in seconds. Let's run through the steps so you can access X with Face ID or Touch ID.

  1. Open the X app and log into your account.

  2. In the sidebar menu, tap on Settings and Support.

  3. From the drop down menu, tap on Settings and privacy.

  4. Tap on Security and account access.

  5. In the new list of options that open, select Security.

  6. On the Security page, under the Additional password protection section, tap the slider for Passkey to turn it on.

  7. Type in your X account password and tap Confirm.

  8. On the next screen, tap on Add a passkey

  9. Click Continue on the iPhone pop-up prompt that asks if you want to Use Face ID to sign in.

And that's it!

Don't worry about Elon

We should note that some accounts that Mashable tested this on did not yet have the passkey option yet. According to X's FAQ, new accounts will not be able to use this feature. However, the accounts in our test were not new, so it seems like passkeys may still be rolling out to all users.

And, perhaps the most important question that some of you may be asking is: Does Passkeys provide Elon Musk with my biometric data? Your fingerprints and facial biometric data all remain on your device, according to Apple. Third-party apps, in this case Elon Musk's X, never have access to this data.

Categories: IT General, Technology

iRobot released two new Roombas under $300, including one that mops

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 18:11

Two new Roombas under $300: In early April, iRobot released two new budget-friendly Roombas: the Roomba Vac Essential for $249.99 and the mopping Roomba Combo Essential for $274.99.

iRobot doesn't participate in CES, which means iRobot isn't on the same "announce in January, release in spring" schedule that its competitors are. But that doesn't mean new Roombas aren't in store for 2024.

The first week of April 2024 brought surprise news from iRobot: two new cheap Roombas. The mopping Roomba Combo Essential debuted on April 4 at $274.99 and the Roomba Vac Essential followed (only at select retailers, though) on April 7 at $249.99.

SEE ALSO: Roomba models, explained: The 2024 guide to deciding which Roomba to buy

The timing of these budget-friendly releases from iRobot is almost funny, considering Roborock, Eufy, and Ecovacs are in the midst of rolling out their new high-end flagship models. However, iRobot already covered that category when it dropped the Roomba Combo j9+ several months ago, along with overhauls of several mid-tier Roombas.

The most affordable end of the Roomba spectrum was the only one left that still needed attention, and we're finally getting it. Let's see what the new Essential Roombas are all about.

The simplest 2-in-1 Roomba to date Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Combo Essential at iRobot
Shop Now

The Roomba Combo Essential outdoes the previous go-to cheap Roomba, the 600 Series, in several ways. Even with a water tank and mopping capabilities brought on board, the Roomba Combo Essential still managed to debut at $274.99 — the same original price as the non-mopping Roomba 694.

It offers three mop water levels as well as three suction power levels, and implements iRobot's upgraded four-stage loosening and lifting cleaning system rather than the older three-stage system used by the 600 Series Roombas.

SEE ALSO: Tons of robot vacuums claim to mop, but only these 4 hybrids actually do the job

As the simplest mopping Roomba, the Combo Essential can't recognize carpets or rugs, so you'll have to roll those up if possible (or shut the door completely) when the tank and mopping pad are attached. The Combo Essential also can't memorize your home's layout, but uses iRobot OS to clean in neat rows.

The closest Combo Essential competitor is the Roomba Combo i5, which does utilize smart mapping to be able to clean specific rooms in your home on command. It debuted for $349.99, but if you can find it at Amazon for $297.99, get it over the Combo Essential.

Your new go-to cheap Roomba Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot Roomba Vac Essential at Best Buy
Shop Now

The Roomba Vac Essential replaces the Roomba 692 and 694 as the base tier Roomba. Unlike the Combo Essential, the Vac Essential still sticks to the same three-stage cleaning system that the older 600 Series models do. Compared to those older models, though, the Vac Essential utilizes iRobot OS to navigate more thoroughly in rows.

We're particularly thankful with the way that iRobot has streamlined spot cleaning here. Just set the Vac Essential down in the scene of the crime and it'll spin in place for up to two minutes.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Google updated its 'Find My Device' Android network: 5 new things it can do

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 18:08

The new Find My Device network for Android devices began rolling out on Monday. It's available for all devices using Android 9 or later. We're currently on Android 14, which covers a broad range of devices (Android 15 is coming out soon).

The updated Android equivalent to Apple's Find My network includes much of the same functionality as its competitor. But, there are a few extras, too.

Here's a few things you can expect from the newly updated Find My Device for Android.

The new Find My Device for Android. Credit: Google 1. Find offline devices

If you lose your Android device, Find My Device will help you locate it on a map and let you know as you get closer to its location. 

However, some Android devices can be located now even if they are offline or their battery is dead. According to Google, Pixel 8 and 8 Pro smartphones have this functionality.

2. Find nearby

Find My Device also comes with a new proximity feature that lets users how close they are to discovering their sought-after device.

Tapping "Find nearby" will let users know if they are getting closer to where their device is being pinged.

3. Track items with tags

Much like how Apple allows users to locate anything with an AirTag attached to it, Android devices will soon be able to do the same. 

Google says that Bluetooth tracker tags from companies like Chipolo, Pebblebee, eufy, Jio, and Motorola will be able to be tracked via the Find My Device feature starting in May.

In addition, Find My Device will work with cross-compatible Android and iOS unknown tracker alerts features in order to keep bad actors from weaponizing these tags.

4. Share tracked items with others

Once those Bluetooth trackers are out next month, users will be able to share the location of whatever items they want with their family and friends via Find My Device.

This could come in handy if you'd like the entire family to know where the house keys are.

And, of course, users can revoke access later on if need be too.

5. Nest interaction

Being that Android and Nest devices are Google products, Find My Device incorporates both into helping users find whatever item they are looking for. Find My Device will let users know where a located Android device is in proximity to Nest smart home products.

For example, if you left your tracked house keys by your Nest speaker, Find My Device will let you know.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get a Google Nest x Yale smart lock for $70 off and never worry about losing your keys again

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 18:07

SAVE $70.99: As of April 9, get the Google Nest x Yale Lock for $229 at Amazon. That's a discount of 24% off its normal price of $299.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Google Nest x Yale Lock $229.00 at Amazon
$299.99 Save $70.99 Get Deal

If you enjoy enhancing your home with smart devices, add a smart lock to your home upgrades list. Your front door lock is the first line of defense between you and bad actors, plus you'll never have to deal with misplacing your keys again. We've picked some of the best smart locks that would make great additions to any home, but if you're looking to save a bit on a reliable brand, you might want to head over to Amazon.

As of April 9, the Google Nest x Yale Lock is $229 at Amazon, which is $70.99 off its normal price of $299.99. That's a discount of 24%. This discount applies to all colorways including Black Suede, Oil Rubbed Bronze, and Satin Nickel, though you can expect to pay about $1 more depending on which one you choose.

SEE ALSO: Here's why a smart lock should be the first smart home device you own

This smart lock offers keyless entry for your front door and replaces your current deadbolt. You can lock and unlock your door from anywhere thanks to the accompanying app, so you don't have to wonder whether you left the door unlocked when you leave or you can let guests in even when you're away.

You can also set up a special passcode for friends and family that grants access to your home during specific timeframes. You can also turn on Privacy Mode so the keypad is disabled entirely; if you're taking a nap and don't want to be disturbed, set it up and forget the world for a while.

There are many great reasons to secure your front door with a smart lock — and saving some cash on the Google Nest x Yale Lock is top of the list.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Jam out with four months of free Amazon Music Unlimited when you buy select Echo devices

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 17:35

SAVE $39.96: Get four months of free access to Amazon Music Unlimited with your purchase of select Amazon Echo devices. A four-month subscription to Amazon Music Unlimited typically costs $39.96.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Four-month subscription to Amazon Music Unlimited free with purchase of select Echo devices Get Deal

We're well into springtime backyard gathering season. If your music setup is lacking or your epic playlists keep getting interrupted by ads, you'll want to tune into today's deal at Amazon.

As of April 9, purchase select Echo devices and you'll get four months of Amazon Music Unlimited for free. The deal extends to Echo devices like the Echo Dot, Echo Show 8, and the Echo Buds. Amazon Music Unlimited typically costs $9.99 per month which means over the four months, you'll be saving a total of $39.96.

Bluetooth speakers can make a world of difference when it comes to ambiance. Take the Echo Dot for example. Next to your nightstand, the Echo Dot can play your favorite playlist while you get ready in the morning or stream your must-listen podcast while you get ready for bed.

If you prefer to have access to music and podcasts at all times like while on the train to work or while walking the dog, the Echo Buds could be ideal. And if you'd enjoy listening to music while baking in the kitchen and having the recipe clearly displayed in front of you, the Echo Show 8 is perfect.

Thanks to today's deal, all of those will come with the bonus of free access to Amazon Music Unlimited for four months. The service gives you freedom to stream music and podcasts with unlimited skips and zero ads. This means your backyard hangs with music will have purely uninterrupted tunes.

If you've been considering buying an Echo device, today's deal makes it a great time to upgrade. You'll be getting access to four months of free Amazon Music Unlimited, and there's no better price than free.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save $50 on the rugged Ultimate Ears Epicboom portable speaker

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 16:47

SAVE $50: As of April 9, get the Ultimate Ears Epicboom portable speaker for $299.99 at Amazon. That's $50 off its normal price of $349.99 and a discount of 14%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Ultimate Ears Epicboom portable speaker $299.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Planning on going camping or spending some quality time outside now that it's warmer? Why not take your favorite tunes with you? A portable speaker is a great way to make sure you can take the party with you wherever you go, even if said "party" is just you relaxing and listening to 1989 (Taylor's Version) while eating some trail mix. One particularly great option that can handle lumps and bumps of travel is on sale right now, and it offers some seriously excellent sound.

As of April 9, the Ultimate Ears Epicboom portable speaker is just $299.99 at Amazon, down from its normal price of $349.99. That's $50 off and a discount of 14%.

This is one of your best bets if you're planning on spending time outdoors where your speaker could take a tumble or two. It can weather that and a lot more thanks to its rugged exterior. It also sports a bass-heavy woofer with a 360-degree design and two high-frequency transductors that translate to excellent sound. In fact, Mashable's SaVanna Shoemaker praised the speaker for its "impressive sound quality" and simple setup in her review.

With a 17-hour battery life and thick, waterproof construction, this speaker can handle just about any situation, making it the perfect companion for outdoor treks. It's even better now that it's been discounted, so if you need a good outdoor guest to bring along on your next excursion, this could be the one.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Grab a $50 gift card to Panera Bread, AMC, or Regal Cinemas and get a free $10 Target gift card

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 16:37

GET A FREE $10 TARGET GIFT CARD: Purchase a $50 gift card to Panera Bread, AMC Theatres, or Regal Cinemas and get a free $10 Target gift card.

Opens in a new window Credit: Target $10 Target gift card Free with purchase of select $50 gift cards Get Deal

As the cost of living creeps higher with each passing day, every bit of savings helps. During Target Circle Week you can save up to 40% on toys, tech, home goods, and more through April 13 — and there's a deal for today only where you'll score some extra funds for purchasing gift cards from some of your favorite retailers.

As of April 9, Target Circle members will receive a free $10 Target gift card when purchasing a $50 gift card to Panera Bread, AMC Theaters, or Regal Cinemas. Note that this deal is available today only. Target Circle membership is free to join and means you'll get special price offers and accrue rewards through Target purchases.

SEE ALSO: Get ready to save: Target Circle Week is back with discounts of up to 40%

If you're a cinephile, grabbing a $50 gift card to either movie theater chain will get you a couple of movie tickets and the necessary popcorn and candy to enjoy during your film. Alternatively, grab this gift card to give as a thoughtful present to the movie-lover in your life — and get a free $10 gift card to use on your next Target purchase as a little gift to yourself.

The deal also extends to $50 Panera Bread gift cards, a staple for a wholesome meal on the go, Panera has locations across the country should you be hungry for soup, sandwiches, or a combo of both.

Remember, this deal on some extra Target cash with the purchase of a $50 gift card ends today, but Target Circle Week deals will keep popping up through April 13.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas online for free

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 15:26

TL;DR: Watch the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas for free on ServusTV. Access this free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

We're still only in the early stages of the 2024 MotoGP calendar, but it's already looking like an exciting and unpredictable season. You never know who is going to win the next race (unlike F1), which is exactly what fans love. Every race weekend throws some surprises your way.

If you're interested in watching the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas, we've got all the information you need.

When is the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas?

The Grand Prix of the Americas takes place at Circuit of the Americas. The 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas race starts at 8 p.m. BST on April 14.

How to watch the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas for free

Every MotoGP 2024 race is available to live stream for free on ServusTV.

ServusTV is geo-restricted to Austria, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Austria, meaning you can bypass geo-restrictions to access ServusTV from anywhere in the world.

Unblock ServusTV by following this simple process:

  1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Austria

  4. Connect to ServusTV

  5. Watch MotoGP for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) £82.82 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer money-back guarantees. By leveraging these money-back guarantees, you can watch MotoGP live streams without fully committing with your cash. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas without actually spending anything.

If you want to retain permanent access to the best free streaming platforms from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for MotoGP?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking free streaming platforms like ServusTV, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Austria

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is protected

  • Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £82.82 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Watch the 2024 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

TikTok's Instagram competitor may have leaked its own name

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 15:03

Most apps have taken TikTok's lead, trying to imitate the winning vertical video format. But TikTok is also making its own attempts, developing a direct competitor to Instagram – and leaking the name of the forthcoming app in the process.

Users have discovered that the Instagram rival is likely named TikTok Notes, according to screenshots shared by eagle-eyed viewers. Some users have received pop-up notifications directing them to post photos on TikTok Notes, alerting TikTokkers that these will also be shown on "a new app for photo posts". However, users seemingly have the option to not share these posts on the upcoming app. The message from TikTok reads: "Your existing and future public TikTok photo posts will be shown on TikTok Notes."

Tweet may have been deleted

News of TikTok's photo app came last month, through another leak. References to "TikTok Photos" came in the back-end code of the TikTok app. It seems now that the tentative name has been changed, as TikTok is launching its foray into the photo-sharing space more affirmatively.

SEE ALSO: LinkedIn is testing a TikTok-like video feed

As Mashable's Christianna Silva reported, "We don't know if TikTok's attempt to copy Instagram will work as well as Instagram's copycat playbook has. But the app is pulling out all the stops to maintain its hold — and relevancy — on U.S. users."

Categories: IT General, Technology

I took the solar eclipse flight. Here's my journey at 30,000 feet.

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 12:44

Millions of people made pilgrimage to the cities within the total solar eclipse track today, praying for clear skies at the moment the moon would briefly evict the sun from the heavens. 

But a few shadow chasers didn't want to risk the April showers, and instead booked a flight that all but promised an unobstructed view above the clouds.

SEE ALSO: That iconic Trump meme may save eyes this solar eclipse

When Delta Airlines offered me one of about 200 seats on its A321neo commercial airplane from Dallas to Detroit on Apr. 8, I agreed for the opportunity to report on this historical space event — the last total solar eclipse to touch the U.S. mainland for the next 20 years, according to NASA. But it wasn't an immediate "yes" from me. As a chronic sufferer of motion sickness, the idea of combining vertigo with a work deadline at 30,000 feet seemed like the recipe for a really memorable panic attack. 

Tweet may have been deleted

But my mind kept going back to a conversation with Jenna Samra, a solar physicist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. She had conducted research on an airplane during the 2017 solar eclipse and would be flying a telescope again this time to survey the sun's corona in infrared light. Her journey aboard a Gulfstream V jet, run by the National Center for Atmospheric Research, would take her even higher, to 45,000 feet. 

Despite having had this rare opportunity, Samra admitted she had not actually looked at the eclipse — not even once. In fact, instead of telling me about her own encounter with totality, she described the screams of other passengers ricocheting through the metal airborne tube while she locked her eyes on a computer screen. Those precious three minutes of data — captured in the darkness — gave her a thesis

Did she feel regret, I wondered, working through the peak moment, rather than experiencing it for herself? 

Shadow chasers avoided rainy weather by taking a Delta flight into the path of totality. Credit: Delta

"I think no," she told me. "I definitely want to be in the air because there will definitely be an eclipse in the air. As far as 'seeing' it or 'not seeing' it, that's somewhat under my control." 

A deep-seated desire for control? Yeah, I can identify with that.

Total solar eclipses happen somewhere around the globe about every two years, but it takes an average 375 years for one of these celestial coincidences to recur in the same place. 

This will be the last total solar eclipse to touch the U.S. mainland for the next 20 years. Credit: Delta

The main event is the milky light of the sun's corona. Because the face of the sun is a million times brighter, this swaddle of super-hot gas is normally bleached out of the sky. Only when the moon completely blocks the sun from Earth does the corona emerge, spilling beyond the moon's rim into space. 

Despite all that we've learned about the cosmos, there are still enigmas right here in our planetary neighborhood, like why the ever-present corona is so much hotter than the sun itself. These mysteries are what beckon humanity to look up. They unify us in our yearning for answers. They also remind us of our smallness — our fundamental blippiness in the universe. 

Never wanting to turn down a reporting assignment, I packed my motion sickness tablets and spent the entire weekend before the flight working myself into a frenzy. But if Samra could get a thesis out of her three minutes in darkness, surely I could cobble a good story out of four.

Tweet may have been deleted

As Delta passengers at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport arrived at the gate on Monday, the airline greeted them with a massive balloon archway and baskets of solar eclipse safety glasses. Jeanne Walker tried to balance a pair of the cardboard solar viewers on her dog Maddigan, who travels with her and her husband, John Walker. Jeanne, who came from Colorado, was glad she would have the window seat. 

"She's a good sharer," John said. 

"Not today," she said slyly. 

Julie Anderson, who brought along her three sons, James, Justin, and Jeffrey, said she sort of sprang the trip on her family. 

"I told their principals that we were missing school days for something epic, but I didn't say what it was," she said. 

Among the swag, Delta gave passengers SunChips and Moon Pies to enjoy during the eclipse. Credit: Delta

For the eclipse flight, Delta worked with the Federal Aviation Administration to design a flight path with special turns in the air allowing passengers on both sides of the aircraft to get optimal views. The plane ascended, and passengers broke out the complimentary snacks — SunChips and Moon Pies, of course — and watched the flight tracker on the seat backs to see where we were in the air. We would intercept the eclipse over Northeast Arkansas toward Southeast Missouri, said Warren Weston, a Delta meteorologist on the flight.

A boy enjoys the view with his protective solar eclipse glasses. Credit: Delta

After the so-called "first contact," when the moon began the great shuffle in front of the sun, the main cabin gradually fell dim. Passengers who had clutched their solar eclipse glasses like rosaries started to put them on. 

The mood shifted. Suddenly, I felt a primal urge to thump my chest and beat a drum as I scanned the sky with my eclipse glasses for bright light. The pilot, Captain Alex Howell, said he would tilt the plane so the sun would drop down into our field of view. 

There it was. I found the sun, but not totality. I could see an orange sliver peeking out, shaped like a fingernail. There was no glorious halo of white light.

Though passengers on the Delta flight that departed from Austin, Texas, saw the corona, most people on the flight from Dallas only saw a partial eclipse from the sky. Credit: Delta

"That was it," a woman from somewhere behind me said. "We've passed it." 

I didn't know what to do, other than laugh with Kasey Stiles, who sat beside me. Stiles told me she had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer a month ago. Since then, she had been traveling and crossing things off the proverbial bucket list. Seeing the eclipse was one of them.

She wasn't disappointed — life is full of things you can't plan for. Her mind was already somewhere else, thinking about her next excursion to Niagara Falls. She and her travel companion, Drew Heilman, were about to hop in a rental car and begin the drive.

"I mean, what can you do?" she said. "It's not for not trying."

You can watch Mashable Space Reporter Elisha Sauers on her solar eclipse flight on Mashable's X/Twitter or Instagram.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Republic of Ireland Women vs. England Women online for free

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 12:42

TL;DR: Stream Republic of Ireland Women vs. England Women in a UEFA EURO 2025 qualifier for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

UEFA EURO 2025 will bring together some of the best international women's team in the world, but there isn't enough room for everyone. Qualification is always tough, and some very good teams will not make it. What's clear is that every qualification fixture is crucial.

If you want to watch Republic of Ireland Women vs. England Women for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Republic of Ireland Women vs. England Women?

Republic of Ireland Women vs. England Women kicks off at 7:30 p.m. BST on April 9. This fixture takes place at the Aviva Stadium.

How to watch Republic of Ireland Women vs. England Women for free

Republic of Ireland Women vs. England Women will be broadcast live on ITV1, with coverage starting from 7 p.m. BST on April 9. You can also live stream this fixture for free on ITVX.

ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK. This process makes it look like you're connecting from the UK, so you can access ITVX from anywhere in the world.

Unblock ITVX to watch live football by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

  2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  4. Visit ITVX

  5. Stream Republic of Ireland Women vs. England Women for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) £82.82 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to ITVX without committing with your cash. This is not a long-term solution, but it gives you plenty of time to stream Republic of Ireland Women vs. England Women before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to the best free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming sport is on sale for a limited time.

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

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £82.82 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream Republic of Ireland Women vs. England Women for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best gaming monitor for upgrading your visuals

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 12:39

There's a lot more to gaming than sitting on your backside. It's about finely-honed skill, next-level visuals, and total immersion. And it's about having the right hardware. Specifically, a top-rated gaming monitor.

Monitors get better and better as technology advances. And it’s possible to get a solid gaming monitor for a low price. Then again, serious gamers want all the bells and whistles that more expensive monitors offer. Prepare yourself. Things can get pricey.

We've done our bit to help by researching some of the best monitors available, picking at a range of price points so there's something for every budget. But first, here's some useful information to help you choose a monitor.

What kind of gaming monitor do you need?

This depends on what kind of gaming you’ll be doing. For some, visuals are the most important part of a gaming monitor. These shoppers may want to go large-screen, and for something uber immersive, such as a curved screen. High resolution will be the key here. Some gamers prefer an ultra-wide monitor, but we think that awesome audio is also important to compliment a beautiful display. What’s cooler than a monitor that enables you to hear different noises from the game from different locations?

E-sports players, pro gamers, or those looking for something to enable multiplayer gaming will want to go with a monitor that supports high-speed gaming. While all the monitors we’ve included on this list work at great speeds, the best one for this type of player might be the ViewSonic Elite, which doesn’t compromise on speed or visuals. 

How big are gaming monitors?

Size is an important thing to nail down from the start. What size display do you want? How much desk space do you have? What's your budget? Usually, the bigger displays are on the more expensive side. Also, bigger isn't always better. Most monitors on this list are around the 27-inch mark, but it's possible to get bigger.

What resolution are gaming monitors?

The higher the resolution your display can produce, the higher pixel count, which creates better visual detail and clarity. You'll want something that is at least 1080p Full HD, but if you want the very best quality, aim for 4K. For something in between, there's 1440p, otherwise known as Quad HD.

What is refresh rate in gaming monitors?

This measures the number of times your monitor can refresh an image per second. If you have a good GPU in your PC, you should be able to handle a smooth frame rate, and can go for a high Hertz count. 144Hz is a good middle ground.

What does response time mean?

Response time is a measurement of how much time a pixel needs to go from black to white. When it comes to gaming, this will mostly affect camera movement — the lower the response time, the less motion blur you'll experience during gameplay. Response time is measured in milliseconds. Aim for a monitor with a response time of around 1 millisecond.

Do you need Adaptive Sync?

Adaptive Sync comes at no extra cost in most monitors, so it's important to make sure your chosen display includes it. AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync are some of the more common versions, and prevent screen tearing while you play.

What are the best gaming monitors?

All the monitors we have lined up are spectacular, but we wanted to include monitors that span all price points, as well as monitors for different types of gamers. So you’ll find something for everyone and every budget in this list. With every choice, we kept resolution, refresh rate, and key features in mind.

These are the best gaming monitors in 2024.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Stephen Colbert mocks Fox News' solar eclipse coverage

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 12:14

Monday's solar eclipse brought with it plenty of media buzz, but during his Late Show monologue Stephen Colbert drew particular attention to Fox News' over-the-top coverage — and the network's decision to use the eclipse to try and scare viewers on the topic of immigration.

"Oh yes. Immigrants in dark clothing are using the eclipse to sneak across the border," says Colbert in the clip above. "They won't get another opportunity like that...until night."

He also took some jabs at a fan-made Trump video which shows the sun being eclipsed by a giant silhouette of the former president's head.

"That is a hell of a campaign message," Colbert says before launching into his Trump impression. "I will bring darkness upon the Earth, blocking out all the light-giving warmth, driving the animals to stark madness."

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT's The Mini crossword answers for April 9

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 11:43

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: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for April 9 SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for April 9

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Tuesday, April 9, 2024:

AcrossMusic genre with Jamaican origins
  • The answer is ska.

Sound of spring?
  • The answer is boing.

"Sesame Street" character who sings "Dance Myself to Sleep"
  • The answer is Ernie.

Religious offshoot groups
  • The answer is sects.

What you might use to test the temperature of a bath
  • The answer is toe.

Down"Well, ___ you asked …"

The answer is since.

Work with yarn and needles
  • The answer is knit.

Years and years
  • The answer is best.

First word of every Oscars category
  • The answer is ages.

Black-and-white froyo topping
  • The answer is oreo.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Jon Stewart uses the solar eclipse to talk about the war in Gaza on 'The Daily Show'

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 11:35

The solar eclipse was the big event on Monday, but Jon Stewart had other things on his mind.

After joking about it at the start of his Daily Show monologue, the host used the event to segue into another milestone — the fact the war in Gaza is now six months old.

"As the war has grinded on, justice is beginning to seem more like cruelty," says Stewart in the clip above. "But not to worry: America, shining city on a hill, is on the case with our universal values."

Stewart proceeds to play clips of various U.S. politicians condemning the weaponisation of food, the repression of journalists, and the taking of land by Russia in Ukraine, before using completely different language to describe similar things happening in Gaza.

"The verbal gymnastics that the American government must undertake so as not to offend the delicate sensibilities of a country we provide most of the weapons for is...gah!" says Stewart. "What the **** are we doing here? The subtext of all this is America knows this is wrong, but it apparently doesn't have the courage to say it in a straightforward manner."

Categories: IT General, Technology

Ultimate Ears Epicboom review: Should you take this $350 speaker on your next camping trip?

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 11:00

Every wild experience needs some ambiance. 

The Ultimate Ears Epicboom speaker ($349.99) is a portable Bluetooth speaker that can provide the music for even your most rough-and-tumble outdoor adventures. Featuring a bass-heavy woofer, two high-frequency transductors, and a 360-degree design, the speaker is deceptively powerful, clear, and loud for its size and portability.

With a 55-meter range, long battery life, and optional Outdoor Boost, it’s also really thoughtfully designed for outdoor use. Not to mention, it’s waterproof, drop-proof, dust-resistant, and it floats.

Here are my thoughts after testing the speaker (although unfortunately, considering I was very pregnant and it was peak winter during my testing period, it didn’t involve any grand adventures).

SEE ALSO: The best wireless headphones for every budget Setup and connectivity

The Epicboom had by far the easiest, most straightforward setup process of any Bluetooth audio player I’ve ever used — speakers, Echo devices, earbuds, you name it. 

After unboxing and downloading the app, I was streaming music on the speaker in about 60 seconds. I was able to connect directly to Spotify from the app and there are options to connect to other apps like Amazon Music and Apple Music as well.

Testing the UE Epicboom’s controls

The controls on the speaker are also really straightforward. The top control panel features the power, Bluetooth, play/pause, and Outdoor Boost controls. (Outdoor Boost increases the sound by one decibel, increasing the volume and helping it to project further when outside.)

You can't miss the volume buttons on this bad boy. Credit: SaVanna Shoemaker / Mashable

And while the speaker itself looks like something you might see hanging on stage at your local megachurch, the “cross” is actually two oversized volume buttons: up (+) and down (-). 

You can also control all aspects of the speaker directly from the app, including power and Outdoor Boost, so you don’t have to physically walk over to the speaker every time you want to tweak something. The app features additional sound settings, too, including access to a full equalizer if you want to really customize your sound. I kept the Adaptive EQ setting enabled and everything sounded fine to my ears. 

The little tree button on the speaker turns Outdoor Boost on and off. Credit: SaVanna Shoemaker / Mashable Sound that’s, well, epic

Before we get into this section, I want to confess that I am not an audiophile. However, I have tested and reviewed several different audio devices before, so I’m developing a decent ear.

This speaker produces a truly impressive sound. I hate to be cliche, but it’s buttery smooth. The bass really reverberates, especially when you have Outdoor Boost activated. It’s also a very clear sound — even outside. With its 360-degree design, you also get the same sound quality wherever you are in relation to the speaker.

If you’re used to listening to music on your phone, giving your favorite songs a listen on this speaker will be almost like listening to them for the first time again. Listening to music on this speaker was truly a pleasure. 

I also listened to some podcasts and audiobooks using the speaker. I really appreciate just how loud it can get. During evening chores, my phone is quickly drowned out by our roaring dishwasher, along with all the sounds that happen naturally in a home with young children. Unfortunately, tuning them out with headphones isn’t an option.

However, this speaker allowed me to listen comfortably without needing to wait to start the dishwasher until right before bed. Maybe I need a new dishwasher. In the meantime, this speaker is a good solution.

SEE ALSO: Our 5 favorite noise-cancelling headphones that actually work Built with durability in mind

According to Ultimate Ears, this speaker is TOUGH. It’s waterproof (and it even floats!) and it’s been drop-tested from one meter with no damage.

I wasn’t brave enough to toss mine in the bathtub or push it off of my dining table, but I will say that it’s really well-made. It’s heavy for its size, and you can tell it’s made from high-quality materials. Nothing about this device says “cheap.”

The strap is also really thick and securely placed. I would absolutely feel comfortable hanging this speaker at a campsite or on a boat.

The carrying strap is durable and secure. Credit: SaVanna Shoemaker / Mashable

It also has a 17-hour battery life according to the Ultimate Ears website, so it can DJ through a full day (or more) of adventures without needing a recharge.

Is the Ultimate Ears Epicboom speaker worth it?

This speaker is a great investment… for the right person. If you spend a lot of time outdoors — camping, boating, or even just hanging out in your backyard — and you want a speaker that will hold up well while providing the oomph you want from your music, this is your speaker.

However, at $349.99, it is a pretty hefty investment. That price puts it in range with Sonos products and well above the cost of portable speakers from Bose, Sony, and JBL. If your main purpose for a Bluetooth speaker isn’t outdoor activities where it might get dropped, covered in dirt, or submerged in water, you can certainly find something less expensive with still-decent sound quality. Or look for the Epicboom on sale — we've seen it drop to $299.99 at Amazon.

As for me, the Ultimate Ears Epicboom Speaker will definitely be accompanying me on my next camping trip.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ultimate Ears Ultimate Ears Epicboom speaker $349.99 at Amazon
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Categories: IT General, Technology

Galaxy S24 Ultra camera issues: Samsung is reportedly releasing another update

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 11:00

If you saw our coverage last week concerning the Galaxy S24 Ultra's touchscreen issues you may have thought, "Huh, those users should just upgrade to the latest model: the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra."

While those users may avoid those touchscreen problems with the new Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, they're not in the clear when it comes to problems with their device, particularly when it comes to the camera.

Reports of Galaxy S24 Ultra camera issues are piling up

Since the latest generation of Samsung Galaxy smartphones launched earlier this year, some users have been dealing with ongoing camera issues with the Galaxy S24 Ultra.

As TechRadar pointed out, Android users have been reporting that there are white balance and overexposure problems, "abnormal" red colors showing up in camera, and degradation issues with telephoto imagery.

Tweet may have been deleted

Now, Samsung insider @UniverseIce reports that an upcoming update will deal with those issues.

"Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra will improve many camera problems in the next 'camera firmware update,' including telephoto image quality, inaccurate white balance and abnormal red color," they said while noting there is no schedule yet for when this latest update will be released.

Mashable reviewed the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and didn't notice these problems with our device. However, it affected enough users that Samsung has issued updates in an attempt to fix the problems – twice before.

TechRadar reports that a February update "improved shutter speed, video clarity, and automatic exposure and color selections." Another update in March "included more improvements to camera quality and usability." That last update fixed the white balance issues for some users — but not all. 

I guess Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra users will see if a third time's the charm with this next update.

Categories: IT General, Technology

A lifetime of language lessons and more awaits with this Rosetta Stone bundle

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: Through April 16, the Unlimited Lifetime Learning subscription bundle comes with Rosetta Stone and StackSkills for a lifetime of new things to learn, and it's available for $151.99 with code ENJOY20

Even if you're excited about it, learning something new isn't easy. Having a good teacher or reliable lessons to work through may make it a whole lot easier, not just because it means you have a set path to work through. It also means you don't have to hunt down all the material yourself. 

You might be able to find language lessons online, but Rosetta Stone could make it easier to study in a way that works for you whenever you're ready for a quick lesson. This online learning bundle comes with a lifetime subscription to Rosetta Stone and unlimited access to an expansive learning platform called StackSkills which has more than 1,000 courses on fun and useful skills. You can get both for only $151.99 through April 16 with coupon code ENJOY20.

Study 25 languages on your schedule

Rosetta Stone has been in the business for years, and that's why it has a really impressive selection of languages and lesson styles to choose from. There are 25 languages total, including Spanish, French, Italian, German, Vietnamese, Turkish, Swedish, Russian, and a lot more. 

And this isn't just a boring memorization exercise. If you want to practice speaking, Rosetta Stone has unique speech-recognition technology that analyzes your pronunciation and word choice 100 times per second. It's not quite the same as learning from a native speaker, but it's a lot like having a pro tutor in your pocket. 

Need a break from language lessons? Hop into a course offered by StackSkills. With so many to choose from, you could search for new hobbies, potential side hustles, or skills that'll help you out at your existing job. Learn guitar, Python, yoga, or finally sit down and figure out what's actually going on with Excel. 

Save on a lifetime of Rosetta Stone

Don't miss your chance to get a lifetime of language lessons and useful skill courses. 

April 16 at 11:59 p.m. PT is the deadline to get the Unlimited Lifetime Learning subscription featuring Rosetta Stone for $151.99 with code ENJOY20

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Rosetta Stone The Unlimited Lifetime Learning Subscription Bundle ft. Rosetta Stone $151.99 at the Mashable Shop
$849.00 Save $697.01 with code ENJOY20 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Find out how you can build an AI chatbot in this $31.99 bundle

Mashable - Tue, 04/09/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: Through April 16, if you want to build your own AI tools, you don't need a tech degree to do it. Start learning with this AI ChatGPT and Python programming bundle for $31.99 with code ENJOY20.

Using ChatGPT can be exciting, but the applications are still limited. That is, unless you start learning to program AI and learn to build your own custom chatbot. That's what's on the agenda in this AI ChatGPT and Python course package, and it doesn't cost much to enroll. Get all course material while it's only $31.99 when you enter coupon code ENJOY20 at checkout until April 16.

Study Python, AI, Tkinter, and more

This 14-course bundle is packed with over 80 hours of instruction from pros like John Elder, a web developer who's also responsible for creating one of the first internet advertising networks in 1997. 

Course progression isn't linear, so you can hop into any class you want. Study the basics of robotics one day or try your hand at programming with Python the next. Still a beginner programmer? There are two different Python beginner courses totalling 26 hours of instruction breaking down the basics for different kinds of projects. 

It's not all theory here. One course even has you work on 15 real projects to practice working with deep learning and other AI tools. Students in this course can learn to program AI to detect images in videos, detect faces, track color, or even identify emotions in videos.

Program your own chatbot

The price of this AI programming bundle won't be dropped for much longer. 

Until April 16 at 11:59 p.m. PT, get the AI ChatGPT and Python programming bundle on sale for $31.99 with code ENJOY20

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: John Elder The Ultimate AI ChatGPT & Python Programming Bundle $31.99 at the Mashable Shop
$154.00 Save $122.01 with code ENJOY20 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology
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