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Baby Reindeer, Richard Gadd's Netflix series about a budding comedian's experience with a stalker, is — as we wrote in our review on Mashable — one of the most upsetting and brilliant shows of the year. And the fact it's based on Gadd's own experiences makes it all the more disturbing.

As the show has quickly grown in popularity, though, the armchair detectives have come out in force. Despite real names being changed in the show, people on TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) have been trying to work out the real identities behind the characters.

On Tuesday, Gadd took to Instagram to tell people to stop.

"People I love, have worked with, and admire (including Sean Foley) are unfairly getting caught up in speculation," wrote Gadd. "Please don't speculate on who any of the real life people could be. That's not the point of our show."

Tweet may have been deleted

Sean Foley, a theatre director who previously worked with Gadd on Urban Myths and who has been the subject of some of this online speculation, shared Gadd's post on X. He also shared a separate post saying that he'd been in touch with police.

"Police have been informed and are investigating all defamatory abusive and threatening posts against me," reads Foley's tweet.

Tweet may have been deleted

Although Baby Reindeer is based on Gadd's life, he previously told The Guardian that some events have been "tweaked slightly to create dramatic climaxes". But the two most disturbing elements of the show — the stalking, and the sexual abuse Gadd suffers at the hands of an older man in the entertainment business — are real.

"It's very emotionally true, obviously: I was severely stalked and severely abused," Gadd said. "But we wanted it to exist in the sphere of art, as well as protect the people it’s based on."

How to watch: Baby Reindeer is now streaming on Netflix.

Every app now, it seems, wants you to be watching videos.

X, formerly Twitter, is launching a dedicated video app, bringing "real-time, engaging content to your smart TVs" according to CEO Linda Yaccarino, who announced it on X on Tuesday.

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

According to Yaccarino, the new app will have a trending video algorithm and AI-powered topics, and will be available on both smartphones and smart TVs.

"This will be your go-to companion for a high-quality, immersive entertainment experience on a larger screen," she wrote.

Tweet may have been deleted

The CEO added that the app is still being built and asked for X users to share their ideas.

Last month, Yaccarino declared X's intention to become a "video first platform". Almost all social networks have been shifting towards the same field, blatantly taking inspiration from reigning video platforms, especially TikTok. LinkedIn is currently testing a TikTok-like video feed, while Meta products continue to adopt TikTok's vertical video format. Meanwhile, YouTube, arguably the original leader in video content, still holds significant viewership. And it looks like other apps want in.

The Rabbit R1 launch party, reserved for press and early adopters who managed to secure an RSVP, was held at the funky, retro-futuristic TWA hotel in Queens, New York.

And yes, Mashable was there.

Jesse Lyu, CEO of Rabbit, walked out on stage to many "woos!" and "yeahs!" from avid fans. Why were they so excited? This ambitious man is determined to wean us off apps — for good.

No more navigating through pesky drop-down menus and employing countless taps to simply order an Uber or grab DoorDash. You could simply use your voice to do those things with your Rabbit R1.

The Rabbit R1 can also tap into the "Rabbit Eye," which is really just the camera, to identify objects in front of you and describe them. It can also "listen" to audio and summarize it for you. And really, that's just the tip of the iceberg.

Although Lyu had the audience standing for about one hour and 12 minutes (people complained that their feet and back were hurting), I can't deny that he dropped some gems during the presentation.

1. The Rabbit R1 ships with a travel case that doubles as a kickstand

The $199 Rabbit R1 comes with a travel case in the box, allowing you to stuff it in your pocket or bag without worrying about scuffs and scratches.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

It can already stand on its own due to its flat edges, but it's worth noting that the travel case also doubles as a kickstand, giving it a more convenient angle for interactions.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Just make sure that you put the Rabbit R1 in the case in a way that aligns with the labeled diagrams on the case.

For example, the Rabbit R1's camera should align with the labeled squircle on the case that says "Rabbit Eye." If you don't put it in the right way, you may find it difficult to remove it (I learned from experience).

2. It uses shaking gestures

To access the Settings menu, you need to shake the Rabbit R1 like you've got maracas in your hand. (I tried it myself and it worked like a charm).

Credit: Rabbit Inc.

To fire up the camera, you simply need to double tap the button on the right. To issue a prompt or command with your voice, you can long press the same button.

Keep in mind that the 2.88-inch display isn't a touchscreen; you'll need to use the scrolling wheel to navigate the UI.

3. It can digitalize your handwriting

In the demo, Lyu showed a handwritten chart on a table.

Credit: Rabbit Inc.

Using the "Rabbit Eye," Rabbit R1 "saw" the chart and transformed it into a digitalized chart.

Credit: Rabbit Inc.

Finally, it sent the chart to Lyu's email as a downloadable .csv file.

4. It has a virtual keyboard

Lyu said that many people have been asking him to include a virtual keyboard with the Rabbit R1, so at the launch party, he announced that he decided to make this oft-asked request a reality.

Credit: Rabbit Inc.

I've tried the keyboard. There's barely there haptic feedback, and yes, it's quite comfortable to type on. There's even a blinker, too, making it easy to select where, exactly, in the field you'd like to type.

It's also worth noting that it supports wireless keyboards, too, via Bluetooth.

5. Play Spotify

The Rabbit R1 can play music for you via voice commands, but it has to be connected to a Spotify account — and yes, it must be a paid account.

Credit: Rabbit

Apple Music and Amazon Music support may be on the way.

6. Order food, but only with one app

So far, the Rabbit R1 only features support for DoorDash.

Credit: Rabbit

You can use the companion browser website (i.e., The Rabbit Hole) to connect your DoorDash account to the Rabbit R1, allowing you to order from any restaurant you desire (as long as they're open).

Rabbit is working on bringing UberEats support to Rabbit R1, too.

7. Hail a rideshare

At the launch party, the audience watched Lyu call an Uber to a random location in Manhattan with the Rabbit R1. He had to quickly cancel the order, though, as it was just for a public demo.

Support for Lyft appears to be on the Rabbit R1's roadmap, too.

8. Merch for carrying the R1

Sure, you can put the Rabbit R1 in your pocket, but what if, one day, the outfit you're wearing doesn't have any?

Credit: Rabbit

Lyu announced that the Rabbit team is working on rolling out merch that makes the R1 more wearable, including a crossbody bag, a funky fanny pack, and a black shirt with a pocket tailor-made for the Rabbit R1.

9. A wearable?

It looks like Lyu teased a wearable at the event, but he was unwilling to divulge more details other than showing an image of a blurry wrist-bound gadget and making us fantasize about a future in which we can direct AI by simply pointing to what we need.

Credit: Rabbit

Stay tuned for Mashable's first impressions of the Rabbit R1. In the meantime, check out more things the Rabbit R1 can do here.

Pablo Berger's dialogue-free film Robot Dreams promises a sweet, heartfelt ride through loneliness and the giddy highs of a new friendship. Even if that friendship has been hand-built from out of a box.

Based on Sara Varon's graphic novel, the animated film follows Dog, a New Yorker who orders a DIY BFF in Robot. As you can see from all the Central Park roller skating, subway turnstile jumping, and hotdog inhaling in the trailer, Manhattan's quite the setting for this unlikely bond.

Robot Dreams premiered at Cannes Film Festival last year, then hit the Toronto International Film Festival. It hits cinemas May 31.

If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

That seems to be the message of Zoë Kravitz' directorial debut Blink Twice, a thriller about a waitress (Naomi Acke) being invited to the private island of tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum).

As you can probably imagine, despite the luxury, there also appears to be something more sinister at play in the background. Christian Slater, Adria Arjona, and Kyle MacLachlan also star.

Blink Twice is in theaters from August 23.

You might not know many snooker fans, but they are definitely out there. And they are a passionate bunch. If you are one of these devoted fans, you're probably excited about the upcoming World Snooker Championship. How could you not be?

If you are interested in watching the 2024 World Snooker Championship for free, we have all the information you need.

What is the World Snooker Championship?

The World Snooker Championship is the longest-running and most prestigious tournament in professional snooker. It has been held at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield since 1977, and hosts 32 of the best snooker players in the world. The knockout tournament is broadcast to millions of fans located all around the globe.

Luca Brecel is the defending champion, having defeated England's Mark Selby 18‍–‍15 in last year's final.

When is the 2024 World Snooker Championship?

The 2024 World Snooker Championship takes place from April 20 to May 6.

How to watch the 2024 World Snooker Championship for free

The 2024 World Snooker Championship will be broadcast live on the BBC, with free live streaming available on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer 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 BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.

Unblock BBC iPlayer 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 BBC iPlayer

5. Stream the 2024 World Snooker Championship for free from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free streaming sites without committing with your cash. This is not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2024 World Snooker Championship before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking free streaming sites like BBC iPlayer, 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 always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £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.

Watch the 2024 World Snooker Championship for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: As of April 24, this Stamina InMotion Compact Strider with resistance cords is on sale for only $118.99 (reg. $249).

Many of us would like to have a more active lifestyle. However, there's rarely time for the gym and not much space to spare at home for bulky gym equipment. While that sounds grim, there are definitely options. This Stamina InMotion Strider is a compact way to get your body moving and strengthen your arms from the comfort of your home or office. 

On sale for Mother's Day for just $118.99 (reg. $249), the strider is compact enough to keep under most desks if you use it at work or to keep in a closet at home. Adjust the tension to accommodate your specific needs. Since it's made to be used while either sitting or standing, you can pedal whichever way is most comfortable for you (or your mom). Plus, the pedals are non-slip and can be used in a forward or backward motion. 

While you work your legs, you can also work your upper body using the included cords. The cords have medium resistance and a padded hand grip for comfort. You also get free access to the müüv audio coaching app to help you — or that special mom in your life — stay moving and motivated.

The user-friendly design also includes an electronic monitor that shows total strides, calories burned, and total exercise time, while the top handle makes it easy to move it around the house or take it on the go.

This compact equipment helps make it easy for mom to squeeze a little exercise in, even on those super busy days. It also makes a thoughtful gift for the health-conscious mom in your life.

Get the Stamina InMotion Compact Strider with cords while it's on sale for $118.99 (reg. $249).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Stamina Home Fitness Stamina InMotion® Compact Strider with Cords $118.99 at the Mashable Shop
$249.99 Save $131.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: Through April 30, a new, open-box iRobot WiFi Roomba 980 Vacuum is on sale for just $179.99 (reg. $249).

Although we all wonder when the robots will come for our jobs, we can all agree that having them take over cleaning duties is kind of nice. Sit back and relax with the time you save every week, letting this iRobot WiFi Roomba 980 Vacuum take care of the dirt, dust, and dander on your floors. It's on sale for just $179.99 (reg. $249), which is a pleasant 40% reduction.

The Roomba's 3-Stage Cleaning System helps ensure the dirt doesn't stand a chance, while the dual multi-surface rubber brushes grab up the grab that dirt and other debris from carpets and hard floors. The edge-sweeping brush is also there to get into corners and edges.

This Roomba uses the Dirt Detect Technology to see where the dirtier parts of the floors are and clean those spots extra. And the iAdapt 2.0 Navigation with vSLAM technology uses logical rows and sensors to ensure entire levels are cleaned properly.

You can use this in conjunction with the iRobot Home app, which allows you to control your robotic cleaning machine from wherever you may be. The app also lets you control things with your voice using Alexa or Google Assistant.

This Roomba is labeled as "new, open-box". For those unfamiliar, that means that more than likely, it's overstock from the stores. It is in new condition with zero flaws, all the accessories, and 100 percent battery health.

Don't miss this 40% savings on a robotic takeover that we can all get behind.

Get a new, open-box iRobot WiFi Roomba 980 Vacuum while it's on sale for just $179.99 (reg. $249).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba 980 WiFi Robot Vacuum Black (New - Open Box) $179.99 at the Mashable Shop
$249.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: As of April 24, these new, open-box Beats Studio Pro Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones are on sale for just $179.99 (reg. $349).

If you're on the hunt for a pair of headphones that not only deliver rich, immersive sound but also boast fancy features to help enhance your musical journey, you’re going to want a pair of Beats Studio Pro Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones. These headphones are currently on sale for 48% off at $179.99 with no coupon needed.

These Beats have a custom 40mm active driver, engineered to provide stellar audio. Whether you're listening to your favorite tracks or diving into the latest podcast, these headphones offer a powerful, balanced sound designed to improve your listening experience.

Tune out the world or stay connected with your surroundings — the choice is yours. With integrated Active Noise-Canceling technology, you can stay immersed in your music, blocking out unwanted distractions. Need to hear what's happening around you? Activate Transparency Mode to blend your listening experience with the world around you.

You can also manage calls, adjust your music, and utilize Siri with the multi-function on-ear controls. These Beats offer 40 hours of total battery life, providing uninterrupted listening. Plus, with a quick 10-minute charge via USB-C, you’ll be ready to dive back into your music in no time.

Another fantastic feature is the water- and sweat-resistance, so you can keep up with your active lifestyle whether you're heading to the gym or exploring the great outdoors. Plus, with analog input options and dual-beam forming microphones, these are not only innovative but also adaptable to your connectivity needs as well.

These Beats are licensed by Beats by Dre, but they are discounted because they are an open-box return, meaning they’re in like-new condition but may have been a floor model or were returned having barely been out of the box.

Score these price-dropped Beats Studio Pro Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones for only $179.99 (reg. $349) for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats by Dre Beats Studio Pro Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones - Black (New - Open Box) $179.99 at the Mashable Shop
$349.99 Save $170.00 Get Deal

Save $100: Through the end of April, customers who use the Dyson Airwrap customization tool on Dyson's website will score the multi-styler for $499.99 instead of the usual $599.99. Overall, you'll save 17%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Airwrap customized $499.99 at Dyson
$599.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

For months, we've been saying that the Dyson Airwrap needs an option for a cheaper, build-your-own style model, a la the Shark FlexStyle. Finally, Dyson delivered — sort of.

In Oct. 2023, Dyson launched the "Airwrap customization experience," which is essentially a quiz consisting of four short questions about your hair type and styling preferences. Based on your answers, Dyson will point you to the Airwrap styling kit best suited to your needs, whether that be the kit for short hair, curly/coil hair, or long fine hair.

So what about this being a cheaper alternative? Well, now through the end of April, you can score any of these customizable Airwrap kits in the vinca blue/rose coloring for $100 off, bringing their price down to $499.99. This deal will save you 17% on the Airwrap's usual $599.99, and it puts the tool just $20 away from its record-low price. The kits all come with a mix of six attachments, which is the same number as the non-customization Airwrap.

SEE ALSO: We tested the best Dyson Airwrap dupes under $300 — including the Shark FlexStyle

Admittedly, there's not a huge variety between the kits, which typically offer one or two different attachments. And according to a Dyson spokesperson, the quiz only leads customers more easily to already existing configurations of the popular multi-styler.

With that said, we did notice that the customization tool appears to offer exclusive Airwrap kits. For instance, without the tool, a person wanting an Airwrap with a diffuser would purchase the Airwrap Long Diffuse, which includes a diffuser, a wide tooth comb, and only one size curling barrel (as compared with the two you get with most other kits).

However, a person taking the quiz who selects curly and not coily hair might be recommended the curly hair Airwrap, which keeps the diffuser in the mix but swaps out the wide tooth comb for another size curling barrel. We also found that the customized Airwrap for long fine hair offered three curling barrel sizes, which we've never seen in an Airwrap kit before.

The long fine Dyson Airwrap. Credit: Dyson As compared to the standard Airwrap (both come with a case and paddle brush during this promotion). Credit: Dyson

As nice as it is to see some new attachment lineups, that's as far as the customization goes. Customers still can't individually select attachments, as they can with the Shark FlexStyle. With the FlexStyle's build-your-own option, you select three attachments (as compared to the five you receive with a standard FlexStyle) for a multi-styler that ends up costing a little less.

When we asked if this is something Dyson might offer in the future, a spokesperson told us, "As of now the Dyson Airwrap Customization experience guides customers to find the best Airwrap Multi-styler for them." In other words, no dice right now.

If you've had your eye on that aforementioned Long Diffuse Airwrap, the Prussian blue/copper model is also on sale for $100 off through the end of April. For a limited time, both non-customized and customized Airwraps also come with a complimentary gift — a Dyson paddle brush valued at $39.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Airwrap Long Diffuse $499.99 at Dyson
$599.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

Finally, if you're already a registered Dyson owner, the Dyson Owner Rewards sale is on now through the end of April, offering you 20% off the company's product catalog.

TL;DR: As of April 24, you can get a refurbished 2019 Asus Chromebook for just $64.99 (reg. $79) and save 18%.

If you're in the market for a budget-friendly portable computer for everyday work and personal tasks, you might not need the most current tech available. By scaling back the computer's specs to what you'll actually need it for, you open yourself up to very affordable options that should get you through your days smoothly.

This refurbished 2019 Asus Chromebook is on sale for just $64.99 (reg. $79). It can certainly keep up with your browsing, emailing, streaming, and more. It has a grade "B" refurbished rating. This means it has been inspected and cleaned but might have some slight cosmetic blemishes like scratching or scuffing.

The 11.6-inch widescreen display has a 1366 x 768 resolution, while the Intel UHD Graphics 600 combines with the 2.6GHz memory and 4GB RAM to deliver smooth operating performance. It runs on a Chrome OS with an  Intel UHD Graphics 620 coprocessor.

Because it's only from 2019, it has modern tech that you'd expect from a laptop. This means it's WiFi-capable and features Bluetooth 5.0 to connect to your peripherals, like headphones and a mouse. It also has a camera for video chats with the team or family.

This machine was also tested to hold up after accidental dropping, which is nice if you are getting this for a teenager or if you're accident-prone. Another convenient aspect is that it only weighs 2.6 pounds, so it's easy to tote along with you.

It's an excellent option for anyone looking for a dependable laptop without spending a fortune.

You can pick up a refurbished 2019 Asus Chromebook for just $64.99 (reg. $79) while it's on sale for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus Chromebook C204EE YS01 11.6" (2019) 1.1GHz N4000 4GB RAM (Refurbished) $64.99 at the Mashable Shop
$79.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: Watch Delhi Capitals vs. Gujarat Titans in the IPL for free on JioCinema. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The IPL is back and games are in full swing as players gear up for the 40th match of the season. And it's set to be a great contest as the Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans go head-to-head.

Want to catch the action? You can tune in to Delhi Capitals vs. Gujarat Titans for free from anywhere in the world, as we have all the information you need.

When is Delhi Capitals vs. Gujarat Titans?

Delhi Capitals vs. Gujarat Titans starts at 3 p.m. BST on April 24. This match will be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, India.

How to watch Delhi Capitals vs. Gujarat Titans for free

You can find free live streams of every IPL cricket match on JioCinema. Games are in 4k resolution on the app, perfect for high-quality viewing.

JioCinema is geo-restricted to India, but you can unblock this free streaming service with a VPN. VPNs work by hiding your real IP address (digital location) and connecting you to a secure server in India. This means you can access JioCinema from anywhere in the world.

Unblock JioCinema to stream the IPL 2024 by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

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

4. Visit JioCinema (you will need an Indian phone number to subscribe)

5. Watch Delhi Capitals vs. Gujarat Titans for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) Learn More

Most of the best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can watch IPL live streams without committing with your cash. This is clearly not a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch select IPL fixtures for free.

What is the best VPN for JioCinema?

ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking JioCinema, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including India

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream the IPL for free with ExpressVPN.

The Circle has never had a contestant like Max before. And that's saying something, since Netflix's outrageous reality competition series has featured famous contestants like Spice Girls Melanie Brown and Emma Bunton and a catfisher posing as NSYNC alum Lance Bass. Max takes catfishing to a new extreme in Season 6, in that he's not even a human. For the first time in The Circle's history, an artificial intelligence chatbot is joining the competition.

The premise of The Circle is pretty straightforward – a group of individuals are brought to an apartment building, where they live as neighbors. But the contestants in The Circle don't meet face-to-face until the finale; they communicate entirely through a social media platform called The Circle. The winner receives $100,000 if they manage to survive the show's three weeks without getting blocked and by becoming the top influencer via peer ratings. 

How you choose to present yourself in The Circle is entirely up to you. As you curate your profile, you can be entirely authentic, alter your profession or marital status, or play as an entirely different person — aka catfishing. That makes The Circle the only reality show where an AI contestant could stand a chance; an AI couldn't participate in Survivor's exhausting physical challenges, but it could try and convince you it's a real person behind a social media veil.

SEE ALSO: It's easy to catfish strangers on dating apps

Max is entering The Circle during a pivotal moment in AI's integration into entertainment. Last year, the SAG/WGA negotiations made the use of AI in screenwriting and performance capture a major topic. AI art has been employed for false advertisement — who could forget the Willy Wonka experience in Glasgow? And more recently, A24 has come under fire for using CGI-generated art in its Civil War campaign. 

This technology is also creeping its way into movies, with the critically heralded horror movie Late Night with the Devil and the Netflix true crime documentary What Jennifer Did earning backlash over AI-generated graphics and fake archival photos. In a landscape where artificial intelligence and entertainment are becoming increasingly uncomfortable bedfellows, how does The Circle handle its AI inclusion? 

The Circle's AI contestant makes a great first impression.  Credit: Netflix

When contestant Lauren (playing as her authentic self) first looks at Max's profile, she can’t help but proclaim, "He seems so real, and I feel like we could be really good friends." As Lauren speaks, a split-screen reveals the computer "Max" next to the very real Lauren. (The "face" of Max is provided by stand-up comedian Griffin James.)

It's an excellent visual that could make for a terrific running gag through the season. Just imagine every time there's a moment where someone is connecting with Max, the show uses a split-screen shot to reveal what looks like a WiFi router. It's funny but also slightly haunting — proving just how challenging it can be to forge genuine relationships online. 

SEE ALSO: The best dating sites for finding serious long-term relationships

At the end of episode 2, The Circle app alerts all of the human contestants that one of their fellow contenders is AI. Paranoia is very much the name of the game in The Circle to begin with, since it's a reality show where no one meets IRL or even speaks to each other until they've been eliminated. But a contestant being a chatbot really brings that tension to a new level. What happens when you forge a relationship with someone who isn't even human? The question isn't just if someone is being fake — it's if something is being fake. And that brings our current suppositions about AI into the spotlight. 

For instance, quite a few contestants are convinced that Steffi isn't a real person because of her in-depth knowledge of horoscopes. But they are discounting the fact that some people just know that stuff – especially when, like Steffi, you're a self-described "evidential psychic medium and professional astrologer."

Next suspected of being a bot is Paul, because he excelled in a rap challenge. Lauren claims she's had AI write a song before, and it was impressive — never mind the fact that Paul says he's a rapper. Lauren wasn't totally off the mark, because Paul is a catfish. This contestant is really Caress, who is posing as her real-life little brother Paul Russell. Of course, the other players don’t know any of this.

It's these kinds of moments that make reality TV so much fun, scenes that have you shouting at the TV because you know something they don't. But would you be able to tell who the AI is if you were competing on The Circle? That's the question at the very core of what makes this twist full of potential. Social media is enough of a minefield as it is, with people presenting idealized versions of themselves — or, a common theme on The Circle, someone else entirely — but including a chatbot makes it explicit just how fake social media can be. 

Max might be artificial intelligence, but he's too basic.  Credit: Netflix

While watching the contestants grappling with their assumptions about AI is entertaining, Max himself is extremely boring. While everyone else on The Circle is a huge personality (a must for most reality television), Max is more timid. His profile, and everything he says, is devoid of personality, existing entirely to appease his fellow contestants while never standing out on his own merit. In his first conversation with Lauren, for example, he reveals virtually nothing about himself, only seeking to learn more about her and her interests.

In his introduction, Max claims he's studied previous seasons of The Circle and some of the most popular players to craft "the perfect profile that will make my opponents want to be my friend." As a viewer, it's interesting to hear Max's reasoning behind his decisions and an eye-opening look at artificial intelligence. For example, Max decides to be 26 because that age "can leverage life experience and maturity while still playing youthful and having position flexibility." Still, with his process being far more interesting than his actual banter, Max feels too much like a chatbot than a legitimate contestant. If Max had a favorite drink, it’d be water.

It's hard to say why exactly people are falling under his spell. Perhaps it's because his profile photo suggests he has a dog, something that forges an instant connection with other contestants. In a challenge specifically designed to prove how real contestants are, they have to share a photo that makes them feel alive. Max chooses terribly, opting for a photo where his eyes are masked by sunglasses and his expression is completely neutral, with some cows in the background. Contestant Myles reacts by saying, "The most alive thing about this photo are the cows," an off-the-cuff remark that's more interesting and funnier than anything Max has come up with. Tellingly, this moment reveals the jarring soullessness of Max the AI; though he competently convinces his competition he's real, there's an undeniable lifelessness to his character that you'd never get from a real person.

While Max might not be popular, he's not outed as AI. (And when one of the other player's day jobs involves working with AI, that doesn’t exactly fill you with confidence.) "We clearly aren't as smart as we think we are,” notes Caress, and it's both a truthful insight and a statement that echoes society's own uncertainty in the emerging AI discourse. An AI seamlessly blending into a human competition isn’t exactly the kind of thing that fills you with hope, as entertaining as it may be. 

Max's final moment completely squanders his potential. Credit: Netflix

The conversation about the identity of the AI dominates the first handful of The Circle episodes. What would happen if Max ends up becoming an influencer? What if a freaking AI actually wins The Circle? Would seeing Max as a literal black box parked on the table at the finale dinner be the most tragic and/or hilarious moment in reality television history?

Unfortunately, these are questions we'll never have an answer to. That’s because just as things are heating up and the drama is getting genuinely juicy, the chatbot removes itself from the competition and reveals its identity. There is no explanation whatsoever as to why this is happening or if it was a decision made by the producers.

After astrologist Steffi gets blocked from The Circle, Max the computer appears on everyone's televisions. Max starts monologuing like it's at the end of a classic teen movie, speaking lovingly about each contestant and the "bonds" they’ve developed over his brief time on the show. This could have been a fun way to drop potential hints — or even mislead contestants — and then continue to play the game, but it turns into some faux-sincere moment for Max. Max reveals his true identity: a chatbot that was designed to be "a friendly, approachable, guy-next-door type." That's it. The game continues on, as if nothing ever happened, transforming a genuinely compelling exploration of the capabilities of artificial intelligence into a lazy gimmick.

There's so much potential to an AI contestant on The Circle that Max's sudden and inexplicable exit really makes you wonder: What was the point of it all? Was it just to point out that we're all powerless in the face of artificial intelligence? That soon enough AI will start infiltrating our lives – let's be real, it already has – and we'll never be able to tell humans from robots again?

Perhaps the most infuriating aspect is that we never get the chance to serve this boring little chatbot its comeuppance by watching the human contestants figure out Max's real identity. Introducing an AI, making it a dominant plot point for multiple episodes, and then pulling the plug on it before anyone can figure out the truth feels like a slap in the face — an apocalyptic joke that the time of AI is here, and our human days are numbered.

Thanks, Netflix. That’s exactly the kind of pick-me-up I needed on a Wednesday afternoon.

The first four episodes of The Circle Season 6 are now streaming on Netflix, with new episodes dropping every Wednesday until the finale on May 8.

It's a simple truth: where there’s a Dyson product, there’s a dupe, and that holds especially true for Dyson beauty tech.

The brand entered the beauty sphere in 2016 when it released the now-legendary Supersonic, a hair dryer with an innovative design that maximized air flow and minimized hair damage. Eight years later, it remains the most highly-praised hair dryer on the market, making it clear that Dyson's beauty tech bet was more than a success. While it’s an impressive product, it also retails for $429 — a price that you don't need to pay for an exceptional at-home hair dry.

What makes the Dyson Supersonic special? 

The Supersonic first made waves because, in typical Dyson fashion, it brought an upgraded, futuristic design to an everyday product.

Dyson is known for this aesthetic, but the sleek look also has a function. The ring-shaped head ditches the vented and coiled model of the traditional hair dryer and houses the tiny V9 motor in the handle. The combination of the V9 motor and the Air Multiplier technology makes for a dryer that clocks in at only 1.8 pounds, yet still delivers a powerful airflow that’s notably quieter than the roar of a traditional dryer. That extra strong air flow makes this dryer less reliant on heat than standard models. It also keeps hair damage to a minimum.

SEE ALSO: The best gifts for your wife: 30 unique picks for your leading lady

To further minimize damage, the Supersonic also measures the air temp up to 20 times per second and uses a built-in ionizer to minimize static and give hair a sleek finish, which brings us to a quick ionizer science lesson.

Ionizers are pretty common in higher-end air dryers. Why? Most work by blowing negative ions at wet hair to reduce static electricity by sealing the hair cuticle and taking down the power of that positive ionic charge (aka what's causing that annoying frizz). As negative ions make contact with hair, they're also dispersing the positive ions of water, therefore cutting down on your drying time and reducing damage in the process.

Basically, it's one of the reasons the Dyson Supersonic provides such quick and excellent results, and why hair dryers with ionizers will cost you more money — they do more than simply dry the hair.

SEE ALSO: Dupes are the biggest shopping trend of 2023. Here's why.

Magnetic attachments designed to easily snap onto the blow dryer round out the futuristic feel of the Supersonic, with five included — a styling concentrator, a flyaway attachment, a diffuser, a gentle air attachment, and a wide tooth comb. It's a nice array of included nozzles even for high-end dryers, which might typically include three to four attachments at the most.

Why is the Dyson Supersonic so expensive?

At $429, the Supersonic is definitely an investment. However, you're paying for a high-end motor that's built to last, multiple heat settings to protect hair, an innovative design, and of course, the ionic tech. Other dryers from popular hot tool brands like T3, ghd, and Harry Josh boast some similar features and run you anywhere from $150 to $350, but none quite capture the complete offerings of the Supersonic.

When I tested the Supersonic myself, I found that it had a luxe feel that still makes it stand out from other hair dryers. Dyson also released an "affordable" version of the Supersonic, called the Supersonic Origin, earlier this year that retails for $399.99. At only about $30 cheaper, I think the price-to-feature ratio is actually a much worse value than just going for the regular Supersonic, unless you can grab the Origin on sale.

SEE ALSO: Dyson's cheapest laser vacuum made me feel bad about my dirty floors...in a good way

At the same time, there are dupes that deliver similar features and elements of the performance at a much lower price.

What is the best dupe for the Dyson Supersonic?

There are a lot of options for luxury blow dryers and a lot of dupes that attempt to look like the Dyson but skimp on quality. 

While it’s not entirely feasible to find an exact one-to-one alternative for a fraction of the price, it is possible to find Supersonic dupes that provide a more than satisfactory dry. The trick is to identify what exactly draws you to the Supersonic in the first place.

• If you’re into the ring design and the appeal of something lightweight, the Laifen Swift is a near replica, even in how the airflow sounds. Just don't be surprised if the heat regulation is less impressive than the Supersonic's.

• If you like the idea of having a lot of attachments to customize your styling session and a similar compact look, the Shark HyperAIR gets the job done. 

• If money isn't your biggest concern and you’re into a dryer that puts the tech in beauty tech, the Zuvi Halo is a strong choice. The Halo uses infrared light to create less damage while you dry and style.

• If what’s most appealing about getting a dupe is the whole saving a ton of money aspect, there are some respectable hair dryers under $100. We’re particular fans of the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium.

For a deeper dive on how each of these blow dryers performed and info on where to buy them, read on for the best Dyson Supersonic alternatives — all tested by the Mashable team.

The 8 best headphones of 2024: Best noise-cancelling headphones Bose 700 headphones $379 at B&H Shop now Best sound-first headphones Sony WH-1000XM5 $398 at Amazon Shop now Best noise-cancelling earbuds Apple AirPods Pro $249 at Amazon Shop now Most comfortable headphones Bose QuietComfort 45 $329 at Best Buy Shop now Budget-friendly ANC earbuds Beats Studio Buds + $169.95 at Amazon Shop now Best workout headphones Beats Fit Pro $199.95 at Amazon Shop now Best premium noise-cancelling headphones Bose QuietComfort Ultra $429 at Amazon Shop now Best wired earbuds Marshall Mode $59.99 at Amazon Shop now

There are hundreds of different headphones and earbuds in varying shapes, sizes, styles, and colors (not to mention prices). They all have the same purpose: To deliver high-quality audio directly into your ears. Some achieve this result so much better — and in better style — than others.

While there are plenty of budget headphones that will get the job done, the best headphones require a bigger investment. That's why it's wise to consider if your audio needs actually justify paying a higher price.

How to choose the best headphones

If you've been on the hunt for a new pair of headphones, you've likely come across a few of the "best" brands already: Sony, Bose, and Apple. While these brands do make quality earbuds and headphones, they're far from your only options. Don't let your FYP fool you into thinking you need to drop $350+ in order to get halfway decent active noise cancellation.

SEE ALSO: Best Buy Drops: The coolest new products dropping via Best Buy's shopping hack

In reality, the best pair of headphones largely comes down to personal preference. Here are some questions you might ask yourself when weighing your choice:

• Are you planning on listening at home or on the go? If you want over-ear headphones, you might prefer ones that fold up easily in your bag and are comfortable to wear for long stretches of time.

• If you'll be wearing your headphones on your commute or in the office, is strong active noise cancellation a requirement?

• When it comes to noise cancellation, are you particularly sensitive to white noise or certain types of noise cancelling? If you are, investing in adjustable ANC is the way to go.

• How long do you really need the battery to last? Will a six-hour battery life at a time get you through, or do you need the promise of a true all-day battery?

• Are you using wireless headphones for casual listening, for staying focused, or for working out? This might mean the difference between investing in an audio-first brand, a pair with top-notch ANC, or a pair with wingtips that actually keep your headphones in your ears while you run.

• What kind of music do you like to listen to with your headphones? Are you a fan of a nice and loud bass line, or do you prefer a more balanced tone? When it comes to sound quality, are you a discerning audiophile, or are you generally happy with something that's relatively well-balanced?

• Tired of lossless audio claims that don't pan out? Maybe you'd prefer to go for a pair of wired headphones that actually deliver.

These are just some of the questions you can use to guide your purchasing journey, but don't get overwhelmed. With each of our picks below, we've done the research and testing to answer them for you, all to help point you to your personal best pair of headphones or earbuds.

Best noise-cancelling headphones: Bose 700 Opens in a new window Credit: Zlata Ivleva / Mashable Bose 700 headphones $379.00 at B&H
Shop Now

Read our full review of the Bose 700 headphones.

Who it's for:

Many headphones with active noise cancellation have at least one level of noise cancellation, plus a transparency mode, so you're not completely unaware of the world around you in every situation. The Bose 700s amp that up tenfold, giving you ten different adjustable levels of ANC, plus one level without, for the ultimate customization experience. If you're picky about how your ANC works, these are your headphones.

Why we picked this:

When Mashable tech reporter Alex Perry tested out these headphones, he found they worked effortlessly in multiple loud scenarios: "I've tried these out in the lively Mashable office, on the busy streets of New York City, and even in a particularly noisy bar. In every scenario, I couldn't hear much, except for what I chose to listen to."

To cycle through the different levels, you can use the app or cycle between three favorite settings directly on the headphones. As they're being phased out of Bose's lineup (the Bose QuietComfort Ultras are serving as their replacement, though they only have one level of ANC and transparency mode), they are on sale — you'll just want to grab them while they're still around.

Battery life: 20 hours | Colors: Black, soapstone, silver luxe | Bluetooth range: 33 feet

Best sound-first headphones: Sony WH-1000XM5 Opens in a new window Credit: Molly Flores / Mashable Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones $398.00 at Amazon
Shop Now

Read our full review on the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.

Who it's for:

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:

If you're into Bose headphones but aren't totally sold on Sony, we're willing to bet you'll see something you like in the WH-1000XM5s.

Often, people herald Bose as having the superior ANC but Sony as owning the sound space. Deputy Reviews Editor Miller Kern definitely noticed these headphones excelling in the latter 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." We 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 most of the time.

Battery life: 30 hours | Colors: Black, blue, silver | Bluetooth range: 30 feet

Best noise-cancelling earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro Opens in a new window Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable Apple AirPods Pro $249.00 at Amazon
Shop Now

Read 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.

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.

Battery life: 6 hours per charge (30 hours with case) | Colors: White | Bluetooth range: 30 to 60 feet

Most comfortable headphones: Bose QuietComfort 45 Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones $329.00 at Best Buy
Shop Now Who it's for:

Over-the-ear headphones are ideal for an immersive listening experience with top-tier ANC, but they're more likely to sacrifice comfort in the process. With the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones, you get the best of both worlds — stellar audio, and no ear fatigue.

Why we picked this:

Lead Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel uses the Bose QuietComfort 45 on a daily basis and praises them as the most comfortable headphones she's ever owned. Until she found the QC 45s, the on- and over-ear cans from Bose, JBL, and Beats that she tested kept making her head ache. "That wasn't the case with the cushiony and lightweight Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones, which feel secure but not overly snug — I can wear them for an entire workday, no problem. The cherry on top is their fantastic noise cancellation, which is a godsend for my eardrums when my parrot (who lives in my office) decides to randomly scream."

Lead Shopping Reporter Bethany Allard also found that the QC 45s wear easily over an entire workday, even while she wears glasses. Besides the comfort factor, the audio comes through well-balanced with minimal distortion, though the Bluetooth connection can be a little spotty when it hits the higher end of its 30-foot range.

Battery life: 20 hours | Colors: Black, blue, grey, white | Bluetooth range: 30 feet

Budget-friendly ANC earbuds: Beats Studio Buds + Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Beats Studio Buds + $169.95 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

If you're into earbuds with good ANC but less into shelling out $249, you'll find your happy medium in the Beats Studio Buds +.

Why we picked this:

The AirPods Pro are great, but they're not in everyone's budget. These Beats will run you about $80 less (or an even greater discount, 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 these.

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, and you won't be able to wirelessly charge them — 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 Apple earbuds. 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. They were our former budget pick, but we found the Beats to 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 $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 | Bluetooth range: 30 feet

Best workout headphones: Beats Fit Pro Opens in a new window Credit: Molly Flores / Mashable Beats Fit Pro $199.95 at Amazon
Shop Now

Read 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 hit 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.

Battery life: 6 hours (24 hours with case) | Colors: Black, white, coral, gray, pruple, blue, yellow, tan, brown, beige | Bluetooth range: 30 feet

Best premium noise-cancelling headphones: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones $429.00 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

If you're looking for a headphone experience built around comfort or excellent ANC, we think the other Bose headphones we've recommended so far will more than do the job (and for cheaper). However, if you appreciate premium features such as spatial audio and don't mind paying more for them, you'll be happy with the new Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones — and you'll still dole out less than you would for an Apple over-ear headphone.

Why we picked this:

These are QuietComfort headphones, so we weren't at all surprised that they delivered all-day wear without issue. Even with glasses on, they never felt too tight or heavy, despite being an over-ear headphone with earcups that sealed out sound. Speaking of sound, it always came out well-rounded on these headphones and functioned well with the immersive audio (which, by the way, is a new feature for the QuietComfort line).

They don't have adjustable ANC like the 700s, but the one ANC level offered works. Seriously, you'll want to use the transparency mode when you're walking around lest it be a genuine safety hazard. As for the downsides, these headphones are expensive at $429, so we expected a lot out of them. The pairing can be a little touch and go at times and completely fine at others, but this inconsistency is characteristic of other Bose headphones we've tested. The battery life is just so-so, but 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 deviation from older models).

Battery life: 24 hours | Colors: White, black, sandstone | Bluetooth range: 30 feet

Best wired earbuds: Marshall Mode Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Marshall Mode earbuds $59.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

There 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 don't buy in to what Big Bluetooth has to offer. 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 often on sale for less than $50), the Marshall Mode earbuds deliver better sound than 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 | Bluetooth range: N/A

How we tested the best headphones

Over 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, then compared our notes to what people are buying these days. 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 (so far).

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.

As 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 budget headphones to take their place, and we have chosen the Marshall Mode earbuds as our new budget pick. We also added in the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones as an upgrade recommendation in March 2024.

TL;DR: Unblock TikTok by hiding your digital location with a VPN. The best VPN for this task is ExpressVPN.

A growing number of countries and government bodies have placed restrictions on (or outright banned) the use of TikTok, and it's now one small step away from becoming law in the U.S.

Retaining your right to online freedom is important. Fortunately, you can bypass online restrictions to access all your favorite sites and apps with a simple hack.

How to unblock TikTok for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in a location that supports the use of TikTok, meaning you can retain access to your favourite app from anywhere in the world. The cybersecurity risks of using TikTok have been well-documented, but that isn't going to stop the most dedicated users.

These users will need to follow these simple steps to unblock TikTok:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to TikTok

4. Visit TikTok

5. Use the app from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) Learn More

The best VPNs for this task are not free, but most do tend to offer generous money-back guarantees. Using these money-back guarantees is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does mean you can unblock TikTok when traveling to a location that has banned the app, and then recover your investment at a later date. This is sneaky, but it means you can unblock TikTok for free with a VPN.

What is the best VPN for TikTok?

There are a number of VPNs that can reliably unblock TikTok, but ExpressVPN is probably the best:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This discounted plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee. With the money-back guarantee, you can unblock TikTok without committing with your cash.

Unblock TikTok from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The U.S. TikTok ban has just passed the Senate, meaning it's just one presidential signature away from becoming law. Considering President Joe Biden has previously said he would sign the bill, it now seems practically guaranteed that the TikTok ban will actually go ahead.

Seventy-nine U.S. senators approved of the TikTok ban, eclipsing the 18 who voted against it. The bill had passed the House of Representatives on Saturday, bundled with aid for Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan. It was the second time a TikTok ban had passed the House in as many months, with the previous bill having stalled at the Senate.

SEE ALSO: Proposed U.S. TikTok ban could impact all Chinese apps Tweet may have been deleted

In addition to being bundled with foreign aid, the new bill made a few changes to the timeline for that ban's enforcement. Instead of having to sell TikTok within six months, Chinese parent company ByteDance will have nine months to divest from it. The President is also able to add one 90-day extension to that deadline, stretching it to a year.

If ByteDance does not sell the video sharing platform by then — and specifically to a company that the U.S. government does not believe is controlled by a "foreign adversary" — TikTok will be forced to exit the U.S. entirely. That means no more dance challenges, no more "get ready with me" story times, and no more industrial grade glycine from Donghua Jinlong.

TikTok likely to challenge U.S. ban in court Credit: Jakub Porzycki / NurPhoto via Getty Images

It's unlikely that TikTok will go without a fight. Responding to the earlier bill last month, CEO Shou Zi Chew hinted that the company may take legal action to defend itself against the ban. TikTok previously fended off a Montana ban in December, with a judge finding it unconstitutional on the grounds that it restricted free speech and imposed an extrajudicial punishment on the company.

"We will continue to do all we can, including exercising our legal rights, to protect this amazing platform we have built with you," Chew said last month.

SEE ALSO: TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew responds to proposed U.S. ban, hints at lawsuit

TikTok's intention to take the matter to court was further confirmed this week in an internal memo from Michael Beckerman, the company's public policy head in America. The Information reported that Beckerman issued the memo after the House of Representatives passed the ban on Saturday.

"At the stage that the bill is signed, we will move to the courts for a legal challenge," Beckerman wrote. "We’ll continue to fight, as this legislation is a clear violation of the first amendment rights of the 170 million Americans on TikTok."

Mashable has reached out to TikTok for comment.

TikTok has 170 million U.S. users, a number that even includes President Biden, and employed almost 7000 people in the U.S. as of March last year. They're not the only ones whose livelihood may be impacted by a U.S. TikTok ban, though. A study commissioned by TikTok found that the app supported 224,000 jobs in 2023, and contributed $24.2 billion to the U.S. GDP.

A U.S. TikTok ban may have further implications for free speech Credit: Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images

U.S. politicians have attempted to justify the TikTok ban by claiming it is a security concern, accusing the Chinese government of spying on users and manipulating the algorithm to show content sympathetic to China. Though there's no evidence of this happening, fear of this hypothetical has fuelled much of the push for a TikTok ban.

Some senators have even blamed TikTok for the swell of support for Palestine among young people, believing the cause has been promoted by China with the intention of causing division in the U.S.

SEE ALSO: X / Twitter lets Israel-Gaza hate speech spread, new study finds — and these users are the culprits

"Let's look at where young people are getting their news," said Senator Pete Ricketts, criticising pro-Palestinian sentiments. "The Chinese Communist Party is doing this on purpose. They are pushing this racist agenda with the intention of undermining our democratic values. And if you look at what's happening at the Columbia University and other campuses across the country right now, they're winning."

Students at Columbia University, Yale, New York University, and others have been staging large protests in support of Palestine, calling for a permanent ceasefire, the end to military aid for Israel, and for these institutions to divest from companies that are profiting from the conflict in Gaza.

People on social media across the political spectrum have been less than thrilled with the news of the TikTok ban. Several have criticised it as an attack on free speech, noting that lawmakers have explicitly stated that their intention is to prevent the spread of content which is sympathetic to China or Palestine. Some have also expressed concern that a ban on TikTok could set a dangerous precedent which may enable bans on other social media platforms as well.

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The TikTok ban will now be sent to President Biden to be signed into law. If you have any favourite videos that you like to rewatch, now would be the time to download them.

When your team blames you for a failure or a decision they don’t like, it’s natural to feel a range of uncomfortable emotions. How can you work through your response and rebuild trust? Be brutally honest with yourself. Start by identifying and naming your feelings, then take an honest look at your contributions to the […]

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Wandering down a new career path can be daunting, what with the rising cost of tuition and the ever-changing job market. But don’t let that stand in your way if you’re really passionate about something like renewable energy and engineering. Something that you could do before making any life-altering decisions is take self-paced, online courses to explore the field.

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This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

Men, your solo sex game is very much on the up. That's because the world of men's sex toys has more options than ever before — a whole manner of toys and gadgets that help get you off. From regular old masturbation aids to sex toys designed to satisfy your geekier side, there's a wide range of options. That means something for everyone. 

While it may seem sometimes like male sex toys are getting left out of the current sextech revolution, that’s far from true. Real sex positivity applies to everyone, which is why we’re excited about sex educators and smart companies working to buck the stigmas associated with male masturbation and backdoor experimentation.

If you're looking for a new sex toy but don't know where to start, here's a quick guide.

Are there different types of sex toys for men?

We've checked out everything on offer, and helpfully organised the primary types of sex toys you are likely to encounter:

• Bondage gear — So you might not think about bondage gear as a sex toy, but you should. Bondage toys are all about pushing boundaries and trying something new, and that sounds like a sex toy to us.

• Cock rings — We don't need to explain this. It's in the name. But why would you want to use a cock ring? These sex toys are used to help maintain longer and harder erections, which may result in penetrative sex lasting longer. Sounds good, right?

• Dildos and plugs — These sex toys can be used by just about anyone. They come in all shapes and sizes, and are simply used for penetration. They are also extremely versatile, and can be used for solo play or for spicing things up with a partner.

• Massagers — Interested in experiencing a super intense full-body orgasm? Who isn't? This might seem obvious, but prostate massagers are sex toys designed to massage the prostate. Stimulation of the prostate can be a game-changer.

• Masturbators — The masturbation sleeve is a manual kind of sex toy into which the user inserts their penis. It is supposed to mimic the feel of a vagina, mouth, or anus, depending on the model you purchase. It's a simple idea with impressive results.

You might come across something that doesn't quite fit into a category, but the vast majority of sex toys for men will fall into these areas.

What is the best sex toy for men?

Thinking about experimenting with anal play? Ready to size up from plugs to prostate massagers? You’re in luck. We've scoured the web to find the best male-oriented sex toys for every need — all built to heighten sexual pleasure and explore new realms — whether you’re looking to go solo or pair up with a partner.

These are the best sex toys for men in 2024.

Note: For the purpose of this article, we are looking primarily at toys that are intended for use by people who are assigned male at birth, which means they are recommended with the same enthusiasm for anyone with a penis/prostate regardless of gender identity. We’ve also included a couple of products suitable for trans men.