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Airbnb announced that it's banning indoor security cameras for all listings. As such, if you spot an indoor security camera during an Airbnb stay, the host is breaching the rental platform's new policy.

Previously, Airbnb allowed hosts to place indoor security cameras in common areas, including hallways and living rooms. Plus, hosts had to disclose their presence, clearly and visibly, on the listing page. However, Airbnb rolled out a stricter policy on Monday, prohibiting the usage of indoor security cameras altogether.

SEE ALSO: Airbnb addresses guest frustrations with a host of new features Why is Airbnb banning indoor security cameras?

Banning indoor security cameras, regardless of whether they're placed in common areas or not, removes ambiguity and confusion regarding interior surveillance for both renters and hosts.

"Our goal was to create new, clear rules that provide our community with greater clarity about what to expect on Airbnb," said Juniper Downs, Airbnb's Head of Community Policy and Partnerships. He added that Airbnb consulted with guests, hosts and privacy experts to make this decision.

On top of an indoor security camera ban, Airbnb is tightening its guidelines on outdoor security cameras and noise decibel monitors, too. These will continue to be permitted, allowing hosts to spot whether renters are sneaking in unauthorized guests. However, hosts must disclose the presence and location of all outdoor cameras in their listings.

AirBnB is requiring the same for decibel monitors. Plus, it should not record nor transmit conversations. And finally, they're only allowed in common spaces.

When will the Airbnb indoor security camera ban go into effect?

Hosts must be in compliance of its indoor security ban by April 30. If hosts do not adhere to the new rules, they risk getting their account removed from the platform.

The majority of listings on Airbnb do not report having an indoor security camera, according to Airbnb, so this update is expected to "impact a smaller subset of listings on the platform."

Save $60: As of March 11, the AirPods Pro are down to a record low price of $189 at Walmart — that's a 24% discount on their $249 MSRP. For just 99 cents more at $189.99, you can also pick up these noise-cancellling earbuds from Amazon, Best Buy, and Target.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple USB-C AirPods Pro $189.00 at Walmart
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If last week's drop of the new M3 MacBook Air didn't excite you, there's another Apple drop that might. A price drop, that is.

As of March 11, the USB-C AirPods Pro are on sale for just $189 at Walmart, cutting their $249 price tag by $60 and bringing them down to their lowest price ever. If you're not a fan of Walmart, you can also grab them at Amazon, Target, and Best Buy for just 99 cents more at $189.99.

The USB-C AirPods Pro dropped in fall 2023, with virtually all the same features as the second-generation Lightning AirPods Pro (released in 2022), except for one key feature: you guessed it, the USB-C charging port. Smaller updates include improved dust resistance, with a rating of IP54, and a claim of support for lossless audio with the Apple Vision Pro (which we've yet to verify for ourselves).

SEE ALSO: iOS 18: Everything we know about the next big iPhone update

Considering we've been big fans of the second-gen AirPods Pro since their release, we weren't upset to see the minimal changes as Apple finally updates their charging ports. Their noise-cancellation makes them our top pick for noise-cancelling earbuds overall as well as some of the best earbuds to take with you on a plane.

Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder found that the sound on these earbuds impressed, even after putting them through "a very diverse palette of genres, mostly on Apple Music's highest quality settings." As for the battery life, it's decent but not amazing at six hours per charge (but you do get 30 hours overall with the case).

As for how future proof these earbuds are, we aren't anticipating any major hardware upgrades on the Pros this year, but it does look like they will be getting a hearing aid feature, to be implemented alongside iOS 18.

It is worth noting, though these earbuds are at a great price, if you already own the second-gen Lightning Pros, Schroeder wrote in his USB-C Pro review that "upgrading is not worth it (unless you really cannot stand the Lightning port)."

What if all the hysteria about Y2K was valid? In 1999, as the clocks ticked down to the new millennium, there was a global fear that a computer coding shortcut could result in widespread tech issues, disrupting life as we know. That didn't happen, but Saturday Night Live alum Kyle Mooney's directorial debut Y2K asks the question: What if it did though? 

Studded with young stars like It's Jaeden Martell, Hunt for the Wilderpeople's Julian Dennison, West Side Story's Rachel Zegler, and Stranger Things' Eduardo Franco, sci-fi comedy Y2K's core story is about what a nightmare it is to be a teen with a crush. But is boatloads of nostalgia, goofy gore, and massive amounts of dopey jokes enough to make this comedy come together? 

Y2K is Terminator, but stupid. 

Written by Evan Winter, Y2K centers on two high school besties, who are way outside the cool kid clique. But one New Year's Eve, goofball Danny (Dennison) convinces wallflower Eli (Martell) that now is the time to get noticed by crashing a house party. While Eli's fumbling to get the attention of beautiful hacker Laura (Zegler), Danny is karaokeing raucously to Sisqó's "Thong Song" and getting the attention he's long craved. But as the clock strikes midnight, computers rebel as AI goes evil, going on a comedic killing spree in which everything from ceiling fans and microwaves to Tamagotchis can be a weapon. The midnight slaughter sequence is as outrageous as it is hilarious. 

Featured Video For You Why you're wrong about Y2K, 20 years later

The sci-fi logic of the film is basically non-existent, though Zegler's Laura is saddled with a series of hacker exposition dumps that half-heartedly set up some rules. But Y2K refuses to take science-fiction seriously. The premise is an excuse to goof on 2000s culture and chuck some teen archetypes into silly shenanigans. So Eli reluctantly leads a motley band of survivors out of this house of horrors and into a plan to save not just their high school but the whole world. 

Y2K is radiant in '00s nostalgia. 

Much like PEN15, Y2K plunges audiences back into a time where AIM away messages were pretentious poetry, dial-up squawked, T-shirts were worn inexplicably oversized, and burning CDs was a meaningful tool of self-expression. The opening sequence is littered with such nostalgic '00s details, which aptly set the era and earned much laughter and cheers from the SXSW audience at the film's world premiere. Props to Mooney for crafting such a crowd-pleasing beginning, but upon reflection, there's few actual jokes there. It's all about the joy of recognition, which could mean this comedy won't play for Gen Z at all, despite their recent Y2K revival. 

SEE ALSO: The ultimate Y2K gift guide for millennials and teens alike

Other references play a bigger role in the plot, like Danny learning Tae-Bo via Billy Blanks' once unavoidable workout videos and a musician cameo that — while funny and surprising — wears out its welcome by beating the same joke into the ground. Actually, that's a bit of a recurring problem. Mooney doesn't have a great sense of when enough is enough so several bits drag, making the movie feel a bit meandering even at one hour and thirty-three minutes. But the bigger issue is Y2K hangs itself on its least interesting character. 

Julian Dennison outshines Jaeden Martell. 

Winter's script is woefully lazy in developing Martell's Eli as a character. Established as shy and vaguely nerdy (he likes computer games and modifying action figures), Eli is identifiable as the lovestruck nerd archetype. However, he's not weird enough to be interesting in this world where electronics are suddenly transforming into gnarly killing machines. Likewise his crush Laura is regarded as extraordinary because she's pretty, popular, and into computers while being a girl. There's admittedly a self-awareness in other characters pointing out this supposed dissonance, but Y2K doesn't go any deeper into Laura's personality. So the jokes at her expense are more a lampshade of the issue rather than challenging it. 

Where the teen comedy aspect comes alive is in Danny as the charismatic wild card bestie, Franco as a rock-rap-loving bully, and Lachlan Watson as a surly alt chick. But sadly, the script sidelines them for way too much of the movie. While Zegler has undeniable screen presence, Martell offers a blank stare for much of the movie that just squashes its emotional pull. The frantic action and spurts of bright-red blood helps revive the movie's chaotic energy, but you might wish that Dennison had been given more to do here. The New Zealand actor is a dynamo, and it’s a shame to see him shunted to the side in a quirky bestie role. 

As a first watch, Y2K is a lot of fun. Its teen cast overall has terrific energy, and a supporting cast that includes Alicia Silverstone, Tim Heidecker, and Mooney — as a burnout video store clerk — brings welcomed microdoses of weirdness. The celebration of all things '00s is undeniably charming, even if used superficially. Jokes come fast and frantic, so even if some don't land, there's plenty of laughs to be had. But on reflection, the movie suffers under its lack of emotional depth. This is a solid stoner comedy, gleefully dumb and unapologetically wacky. But as a teen comedy, Y2K lacks the emotional awareness of classics like Clueless, the original Mean Girls, or Superbad. 

In short, Y2K is a good time, but falls short of greatness. 

Y2K was reviewed out of the world premiere at SXSW.

$150 OFF: Score the Dyson Outsize for just $449.99 (originally $599.99) at Amazon. Get 25% or $150 off this powerful vacuum cleaner.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Outsize cordless vacuum cleaner $449.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $150.00 Get Deal

The clocks have sprung forward, the days are (slowly) getting longer, and the official start of spring is just around the corner. For many, this season marks a time of rebirth — for their wardrobes, homes, and overall well-being. For others, it just means we've lost an hour of sleep.

No matter how you feel about the changing seasons, one thing is for sure: there's never a bad time to get a great deal on a Dyson vacuum cleaner. As of March 11, you can score a Dyson Outsize cordless vacuum for $449.99 at Amazon. That's a 25% discount or $150 off the original price.

SEE ALSO: The best robot vacuum deals this week include every self-emptying mopping Roomba on sale

This is a limited-time deal, so now's the perfect opportunity to upgrade your cleaning arsenal and tackle the dust bunnies and cobwebs that have accumulated during winter.

The Dyson Outsize is lightweight at 7.9 pounds and is specifically designed with a larger bin and a wider cleaning head (150% larger bin and 25% wider cleaner head than the Dyson V11) to cover more ground in less time. With 60 minutes of runtime, you can probably clean your entire house in one go without recharging (though that'll really depend on the square footage of your home).

It also comes with four Dyson accessories, including a hair screw tool for removing stubborn pet hair and a crevice tool for reaching those hard-to-reach corners.

When the MSI Claw was revealed earlier this year at CES 2024, it left us wondering: Could this new handheld gaming console give the Valve Steam Deck a run for its money? As of today, Mar. 11, shoppers can finally order their own MSI Claw at Best Buy and MSI to find out for themselves.

Opens in a new window Credit: MSI MSI Claw at Best Buy
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The new MSI Claw is listed for $699.99, which is $50.99 more than the Steam Deck 1TB OLED. While the MSI Claw hasn't had its turn yet in the Mashable lab, there are plenty of reasons why we're speculating big things from the new handheld PC gaming console, one of the foremost being that it's the first AI-powered gaming console to hit the market.

The MSI Claw is powered by an Intel Core Ultra processor, utilizing Intel Xess technology to generate AI algorithms that increase the console's frames per second (FPS). "If this is true, the Claw should play triple-A games seamlessly and efficiently on the MSI handheld gaming PC," writes Mashable's Kimberly Gideon.

The MSI Claw also boasts an ergonomic design, built to fit the contours of your hand and support your grip while you play. MSI claims this ergonomic support "provides an intuitive gaming experience for hands of all sizes."

Other features include a 53Whr battery life and Cooler Boost HyperFlow technology that controls airflow to keep the console cool in your hands. Together, these promise the possibility of keeping you playing more comfortably—and for longer.

MSI Claw orders will ship from Best Buy by Apr. 4. Meanwhile, it appears that orders placed through MSI directly are shipping immediately. Secure your MSI Claw from either outlet today, Mar. 11 to experience the future of handheld gaming for yourself.

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 March 11 SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for March 11

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Monday, March 11, 2024:

Across"I'll return soon," in texting shorthand

• The answer is BRB.

"Sauer" condiment

• The answer is kraut.

Muppet with a long, hooked beak

• The answer is Gonzo.

Drunken, as a brunch

• The answer is boozy.

Letters beside Chuck Schumer's name

• The answer is DNY.

DownSulk

• The answer is brood.

Used as a campaign talking point

• The answer is ranon.

Like happening restaurants

• The answer is buzzy.

Cold War counterpart of the C.I.A.

• The answer is KGB.

Happy Meal inclusion

• The answer is toy.

Running is one of the most demanding ways to stay in shape. Running is hard, and that's a fact. But running improves heart health, cardiovascular fitness, and muscular strength. It also reduces stress and mental health fatigue. To get the benefits, you need to put the work in. But you can’t put the work in without the right gear.

What you need to get you there — quite literally — is a pair of great running shoes. You can’t pull on any old trainers and expect to run a marathon or smash your personal best. In fact, hitting the track with shoes that aren’t purpose built for running will only make it harder. And they could even hamper you with injuries.

The first thing you'll notice when shopping for running shoes is just how many options there are. It can be totally overwhelming. That's why we're here to help. We’ve put in the legwork and condensed all the essential information and options below.

What are the best running shoe brands?

You're likely to come across a lot of big names, like Adidas and Nike. These brands have a wide range of running shoes for every budget, with some exceptional examples that make the cut in this roundup. We've also included running shoes from specialist brands such as Hoka and Saucony. There's something for everyone.

What are neutral running shoes?

If you’re new to running — or even just a casual runner — you might not be aware of the technical jargon. Neutral running shoes are for runners who have a neutral gait — which means they don’t overpronate when they run. A neutral running gait means the outside heel of the foot makes the first contact with the ground and heel then smoothly rolls in, so the rest of the foot makes contact with the ground. The foot then pushes off with all the toes at once. Roughly half of all runners have a neutral running style and most running shoes, unless stated otherwise, tend to be neutral.

What is overpronation?

This is when you roll your foot inward, meaning your feet are never entirely flat on the ground. The inside of the foot touches the ground and they push off with the big toes. It’s also possible to underpronate, where the outer foot makes contact. If you’re prone to pronation, look at getting a pair of stability running shoes. These are designed to give support and offset pronation. They improve comfort and reduce the risk of injury.

What are the most important features in running shoes?

There are lots of factors to consider before buying a pair of running shoes — all of which will determine the kinds of features you need. For instance, what surface will you be running on? What kinds of distances will you be taking on? Does your gait require something more specialist? Some basic features to look out for include:

• The midsole — This is built into the sole and provides cushioning and shock absorption.

• The upper — The top section of the shoe. It's typically made out of high-performance mesh to keep air circulating around your feet.

• The heel counter — This is the moulding at the back of the shoe that keeps your foot secured.

• The medial post — A stabilising mechanism found in stability shoes.

• The toe box — The bit where you toes go, of course.

We're not expecting you to thoroughly investigate every shoe on the market. But it's useful to have these things in mind when making your selection.

What are the best running shoes?

We'll level with you: There isn't an objectively superior running shoe that we're going to recommend above all the others. Everyone is different, with a different set of requirements and preferences. To find a running shoe that works for you, it's important to properly consider the fit, support, style, and of course, price. The options highlighted below should be a good place to start. So, on your marks....

These are the best running shoes in 2024.

With Messi, beloved canine star of Anatomy of a Fall, changing his mind to not attend the ceremony, the 96th Annual Academy Awards had more than a few big moments between wins — from nude presentations to shock snubs. Perhaps you missed the Oscars on Sunday night, choosing instead to snooze through it and catch up on all the winners and notable acceptance speeches at a more today-based time.

But that's what we're here for, the nerdos who bring you every moment, the ones your mates will be pulling a "I can't beeeeliiiieeeve that happened" on the group chat today. In terms of the gold, Oppenheimer scored seven awards including Best Picture, while Poor Things took home four awards, and Killers of the Flower Moon shockingly received none. You can see all the Oscar winners in one big list here.

SEE ALSO: Watch Da'Vine Joy Randolph win an Oscar for 'The Holdovers'

But this is Hollywood, so there were more than a few moments between the awards that everyone's talking about, from Ryan Gosling absolutely obliterating the Oscars stage with a Barbie favourite to Jimmy Kimmel's Trump roast. Here's some of the major Oscars moments beyond the awards:

1. Celebs wearing red pins

Oscars attendees wore red pins in support of Palestine amid a ceasefire protest outside the Dolby Theatre. Here's Mashable's bigger explainer on the whole thing.

2. John Mulaney's Field of Dreams bit

Presenting the award for Best Sound, comedian John Mulaney TL;DRed the plot of Field of Dreams, proving he should have hosted.

3. Ryan Gosling performing Barbie's "I'm Just Ken"

It was pure Kenergy.

Featured Video For You The Oscars 2024: All the Winners 4. John Cena presenting in the nude

The Ricky Stanicky star presented the award for Best Costume Design in his birthday suit.

5. Jimmy Kimmel clapping back at Donald Trump

"Isn't it past your jail time?"

6. Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt bringing their Barbenheimer beef to the Oscars stage

The cinema beef of 2023 hit the main stage.

7. Killers of the Flower Moon getting no Oscars?

Here's who did win, but like, whaaaat?

Apple's AirPods Pro might soon help you hear better, new report claims.

According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman (via 9to5Mac), the AirPods Pro won't get any hardware changes in 2024. But that doesn't mean there will be no updates for Apple's top-of-the-line earbuds.

The big news this year, Gurman claims, will be a "hearing aid" feature, which should launch alongside iOS 18.

There are no details on what this feature might be like, though it's worth noting that Apple's AirPods Pro already have a few features that enhance your hearing. A feature called Conversation Boost, available in the iPhone's Accessibility settings, lets you focus on the person talking in front of you. Another feature called Live Listen uses your iPhone or iPad as a microphone that helps you hear someone speaking clearly in a noisy environment while wearing AirPods or AirPods Pro.

SEE ALSO: Apple to let iPhone users delete Safari, easily transition to Android

Previous reports say that Apple's iOS 18, likely to roll out this fall alongside the iPhone 16, will be a massive upgrade, with big AI-related changes, as well as support for the RCS messaging standard, new accessibility settings, and a new 'Categories' section for Live Speech, among other features.

Jimmy Kimmel made time to take a proverbial swipe at Donald Trump during the Oscars on Sunday, responding to a critical post from the former president.

Hosting the 96th Annual Academy Awards, Kimmel was about to throw to Al Pacino, who was presenting the award for Best Picture (Oppenheimer won ICYMI). But before the final moment of the night, the host decided to briefly pause to read aloud Trump's most recent post on his own social media platform Truth Social, which directly criticised Kimmel and the Oscars — Kimmel called it a "review" onstage.

SEE ALSO: All the winners from the 2024 Oscars

"Has there EVER been a WORSE HOST than Jimmy Kimmel at The Oscars. His opening was that of a less than average person trying too hard to be something which he is not, and never can be. Get rid of Kimmel and perhaps replace him with another washed up, but cheap, ABC "talent," George Slopanopoulos," Trump wrote, and we're assuming he's naming George Stephanopoulos. "He would make everybody on stage look bigger, stronger, and more glamorous."

"See if you can guess which former president just posted that?" Kimmel asked the audience, then offering the line that has everyone talking: "Thank you President Trump, thank you for watching. I'm surprised you're still wa—isn't it past your jail time?"

"Isn't it past your jail time?" - Jimmy Kimmel

Trump is the first president, former or current, charged with criminal activity. He is facing multiple criminal cases, both political and business related, at federal and state levels, which will unfold over the year amid his bid to run as the Republican presidential candidate in the 2024 U.S. election. In February, the Supreme Court agreed to decide whether former Trump is is eligible for "presidential immunity from criminal prosecution for conduct alleged to involve official acts during his tenure in office." The case has been set for oral argument at the end of April.

Featured Video For You The (very) brief Oscars history of women nominated for Best Director

Of course, there were other major moments at this year's Oscars, including John Mulaney's riff on Field of Dreams, Ryan Gosling performing Barbie ballad "I'm Just Ken," Gosling and Emily Blunt bringing their Barbenheimer beef to the Oscars stage, and John Cena presenting in the nude.

In terms of the gold, Oppenheimer scored seven awards including Best Picture, while Poor Things took home four awards, and Killers of the Flower Moon shockingly received none.

Here's all the winners from this year's Oscars.

What would we do without movies? It's honestly not worth thinking about. A good movie has the ability to capture your attention and keep it for hours, which is especially useful if all you've got planned is staying in and doing as little as possible.

The good news for anyone planning on a movie marathon is that we're living through a golden age of streaming services. Nowadays, film buffs can pick from Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, and many more sites to get their fix. Put simply, we're not short of options when it comes to settling down on the sofa for a day sat in front of a screen.

It's not all good though, because the demand on these sites is probably at an all time high. It's great that we have so much choice, but there is still a finite amount of content tucked away on these sites. It's inevitable that the most dedicated viewers will reach a point where their options are actually quite limited. We know this is a scary thought, but it's important to prepare for this difficult moment.

The most obvious solution to this crisis would be to subscribe to another streaming service, and binge on all of that extra content. This might work in the short-term, but it's not realistic to think that you can just keep subscribing to new sites. This is an expensive tactic, and definitely not something we would recommend. Instead, you should consider investing in a virtual private network (VPN).

What is a VPN?

These security services are primarily used to protect your online identity and data. They do this by providing an encrypted tunnel that your online traffic can pass through. Everything going through this tunnel is protected from prying eyes, meaning that your identity is kept under wraps. This is certainly useful, especially when you come to understand just how exposed you are in the online world. The web is full of threats, including hackers, viruses, and malware, and it's important that you stay safe out there. VPNs are great for cybersecurity, but a large portion of VPN subscribers use these services for a completely different reason, and it all comes down to streaming.

VPNs can be used to bypass geo-restrictions and unblock leading streaming sites from all over the world. How does this work? If for example you wanted to stream all of the films on American Netflix from the UK, you could open up your VPN and select an American server in order to spoof your IP to a U.S. address. This makes Netflix think you're in the U.S. when you're actually in the UK, so you can watch everything that is normally unavailable in your location.

There are plenty of VPNs that can trick streaming sites into thinking that you're based in another country, so you can watch all the films hosted by that version of the site. This simple trick can significantly boost your content options without the need to subscribe to a new service. You'll still need to be subscribed to whatever site you are streaming on, but there's no need to look elsewhere.

If you're considering investing in a VPN for streaming films, there are some features that you will need to look out for. It's important to carefully consider these features before making any sort of decision.

What should you consider when selecting a VPN for streaming?

We have done you a solid and researched everything that matters when it comes to streaming with a VPN, so you don't have to. These are the most important VPN features to consider for streaming movies:

• Bandwidth — Some VPNs have monthly caps on network bandwidth, meaning you can only download a certain amount of data. Avoid these services at all costs. We want you to be able to enjoy as much online content as you want, so you should always seek out a VPN with unlimited bandwidth.

• Connection speed — Don't even try and start streaming a movie if your VPN doesn't offer solid connection speeds. It's perfectly normal for a VPN to produce a drop in speed, but anything significant is going to result in a lot of buffering, and that's no fun for anyone. Make sure you don't select a VPN that negatively impacts your connection speed to the point that you can't watch a movie without constant interruptions. We're not asking for a lot.

• Number of connections — This feature differs greatly between providers. There are some VPNs that will allow an unlimited number of connections, whilst others limit you to just a single device. Naturally, it's better to have the possibility of multiple simultaneous connections, so you can watch movies on all your devices at any time. Plus, if you have a large family or group of friends using the same account, you can all watch your favourite content without being bumped off by other members.

• Price — There are free VPNs out there that offer a decent set of features, but there is always going to be a catch. Free VPNs almost always have limits on data, server network, and connection speed, so if you want to stream freely, we recommend opting for a paid plan. There are a lot of different types of paid plans on offer from the leading services, and the cheapest monthly rates are reserved for the longest contracts. If you find a VPN that ticks all of the boxes, it might be worth making a commitment.

• Server network — Most of the best VPNs provide access to thousands of servers located all around the world. Connecting to these servers is what grants you access to foreign libraries of movies, so it's crucial that your VPN of choice offers a strong selection. It's also useful if a VPN has a lot of servers in key locations like the U.S., so if a particular server is struggling to connect, you can simply try another.

It's important to take all of this into consideration when selecting a VPN for streaming films, but there's one more thing to note. It's worth taking some time to research whether a service can actually unblock your preferred streaming site. A VPN can offer everything we have just outlined, but some services simply aren't able to bypass the restrictions of a site like Netflix. These sites have a lot of protections in place that can detect some VPNs, meaning you aren't guaranteed access with every VPN.

Fortunately, the best VPNs for streaming films are one step ahead and can remain undetected.

What is the best VPN for streaming movies?

There are plenty of VPNs that can unblock streaming sites and provide a user-friendly viewing experience, but we know you're only interested in the best VPNs for watching films.

We have checked out everything on offer and lined up a selection of the very best VPNs for watching films on sites like Netflix and Prime Video. There should be something for everyone and every budget on this list, with popular providers like ExpressVPN and NordVPN making the cut. All you need to do is consider the options we have highlighted, and pick the service that suits you best. It's that easy.

These are the best VPNs for watching films in 2024.

There is a fairly long list of things that you should care about when it comes to VPNs. These services are primarily designed to provide data and identity protection when you're navigating the online world, so they need to provide powerful encryption that secures all of your traffic.

With this in mind, you should only consider investing in a VPN that provides advanced security features like split tunnelling, IP protection, ad blocking, and a kill switch. All of this is vital for securing your online identity and data, which is really important at the moment. The online world can be a dangerous place, and VPNs are effective tools for protecting yourself against viruses, malware, hackers, and other threats.

Interest in VPNs is booming, although it's not only down to an increased awareness of the importance of cybersecurity. A lot of people are investing in VPNs for an altogether different reason: streaming TV shows and movies from all around the world. VPNs hide your real IP address, and by connecting to a server in another country, you can bypass geo-restrictions to unlock streaming sites from other countries. This is the quickest and easiest way to increase your content options without subscribing to a new streaming service.

SEE ALSO: The best VPN for travel

There are some VPNs that specialise in streaming, and others focus on security. Something that connects both camps is connection speed, because nobody wants to use a slow VPN. Whether you're looking for a VPN to hide your idenity, protect your data, or bypass restrictions, you'll need something that delivers when it comes to speed. We're not saying that connection speeds trumps every other feature. We're saying that speed is an essential partner to everything else that's offered by a VPN.

Should you use free VPNs?

When you come to consider investing in a VPN, you will find a few different subscription options. Firstly, you are likely to come across free versions of popular services. Then, you might check out free trials of VPNs with full access to everything a premium plan offers. And after that you're left with paid subscriptions. So which direction should you go?

Not many VPNs offer a free version of their service, but you can sign up to something popular like TunnelBear without spending a penny. There is always a catch with these free versions though, and it's normally in the form of limited data usage. If you're only an occasional user, these plans will be perfectly fine. If you're planning on streaming or downloading anything, then we would not recommend even trying to make a free plan work. It's just not going to happen.

There are some VPNs that offer a free trial to new users, like PureVPN. These trials generally come with everything you get in a paid plan, which is great for deciding whether you want to subscribe or not. Obviously, these trials don't tend to last very long. So by all means try a trial, but this isn't a long-term solution.

We know this probably isn't what you want to hear, but the best option for streaming securely and accessing the online world without restrictions is with a paid subscription to a VPN. For access to advanced security features without limitations on usage, you're going to have to dig into your pockets. Fortunately, there are plenty of services that offer cheap plans, especially if you're willing to make a serious commitment.

As with most services and products, you get what you pay for. The very best VPNs are generally the most expensive, and that's why it's so important to make the most of the deals that drop fairly regularly.

Why is connection speed important with VPNs?

We've already made it clear that connection speed is really important when it comes to VPNs, but why? Connection speed has an impact in a couple of key areas:

• Latency — You've probably heard about latency before, especially in the context of video games, but what is it exactly? It's a measure of the time between when your computer sends a request and when it receives a response — also known as ping time. Latency is absolutely crucial when playing video games with a VPN, as lower latency results in a more responsive experience with less lag. Latency can be the difference between success and failure, so if you're planning on gaming with a VPN, connection speed should be at the top of your list of priorities.

• Download and upload speed — We shouldn't really need to explain what download and upload speed is, but we're going to anyway. Download and upload speeds measure how much data is moved over your connection in a certain amount of time. It's normal for a VPN to decrease both download and upload speed, but the impact can't be too great, otherwise you are going to struggle to get stuff done. Nobody wants to wait all day for a file to download, even if you are totally secure whilst doing it.

Connection speed takes all of this into consideration, so it's obvious why it matters. If you want to get anything done online, you'll need a speedy VPN. Understood?

What is the fastest VPN?

We have checked out a wide range of VPNs, including popular names like ExpressVPN and NordVPN. We've tried to find a nice balance between speed and security, so whilst this list might be missing a particularly fast service, it's probably because it doesn't offer the advanced security features that every user needs.

We have lined up the fastest VPNs that still offer powerful encryption, multiple connections, diverse servers, and more. Most of these providers are also pretty handy when it comes to streaming, so if that's your objective, this list should work nicely.

These are the fastest and best VPNs in 2024.

TL;DR: As of March 11, save up to 43% on these portable SSD drives that are about the size of a pack of gum or credit card. Sizes 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB are available.

With so much hype over cloud storage in the tech world, it’s easy to forget the simple pleasures of the physical kind: Total control over your data and privacy, offline access, and no recurring fees. While using external hard and flash drives may sound a little old-school, this mini SSD by UGR Tech is a classic with a modern makeover Get 256GB for $43.99, 512GB for $60.99, or 1TB for $99.99.

Each SSD drive has a USB 3.2 interface and comes with a USB-A to USB-C cord.

Tiny in size but mighty in performance

Possibly the most standout feature of this mini SSD is its compactness. Measuring less than three inches long, its size is about that of a pack of gum or credit card, making it super convenient for travel, on-the-go, and at-home use.

Its USB 3.2 interface also has snappy transfer speeds, whether you’re moving over files daily or backing up entire systems at once; enjoy read speeds up to 550Mbps and write speeds up to 500Mbps.

Not sure which size to get? Here’s a breakdown

While the exact number of photos, videos, and files you can store in a drive will depend on a number of factors like their quality and size, here are some rough estimates of what each SSD drive could store:

• 256GB: 64,000 photos, 64 hours of video, or 256,000 MS documents.

• 512GB: 128,000 photos, 128 hours of video, or 512,000 MS documents.

• 1TB: 256,000 photos, 256 hours of video, or 1 million MS documents.

Remember that this SSD drive has a USB 3.2 (USB-A size) interface, so you’ll need appropriate cords to work with your Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS devices. Your purchase does include a USB-A to USB-C cord.

Grab your mini SSD by UGR Tech here for less:

• 256GB: $43.99 (reg. $75.99)

• 512GB: $60.99 (reg. $107.99)

• 1TB: $99.99 (reg. $139.99)

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: UGR Tech Mini Ultra Portable SSD $43.99 at the Mashable Shop
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TL;DR: As of March 11, score over $200 off Promova's lifetime access and study up to ten languages for just $79.99.

Gone are the days of learning vocabulary and the nuances of grammar the way your English sub taught you in high school. Now, you can polish up your knowledge with an app that makes learning and practicing fun.

Geared towards ESL students, Promova is a platform that simplifies the process of improving your English. It also offers nine more languages to learn, including Spanish, French, German, Korean, and Ukrainian. For a limited time, a lifetime subscription to the top-rated app is on sale for over $200 off.

Promova packs various language-learning tools tailored to meet individual goals and preferences. There are short lessons designed to conveniently fit into your busy schedule, gamified quizzes to make learning an interactive experience, one-on-one tutoring for targeted learning, group-based lessons, and even conversation clubs. Leveraging AI and machine learning technology, it also enables you to develop a customized learning plan that best aligns with what you need.

Promova also makes learning more accessible by letting you choose the instruction language. For instance, if you want to learn Italian, you can set your guidance in English or another language of your choice. Thousands of unique illustrations accompany the lessons to help them stick, and with conversation practice, you can quickly build confidence in speaking and listening. 

The app also happens to be one of the first language learning platforms to offer a Dyslexia Mode. This feature includes Dysfont, a typeface engineered to aid those with dyslexia in reading more effortlessly, and options to adjust color brightness, coupled with multisensory teaching methods.

With a lifetime subscription to Promova, you can join its 14 million users to learn up to 10 new languages. It normally retails for $299, but for a limited time, you can get it at its best-of-web price of just $79.99.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Promova Promova Premium Plan: Lifetime Subscription $79.99 at the Mashable Shop
$299.99 Save $220.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: As of March 11, get this Mini Foldable Stream Light made to elevate smartphone photography. Pick one up for $22.99 (reg. $29) or get a two-pack for just $44.99 (reg. $58) for a limited time.

If only our younger selves could see us now, walking around with tiny portable phones that pull up infinite info and have integrated cameras. There's no arguing that the tech and convenience are amazing, but the lighting our phone cameras provide isn't the best. 

While lighting accessories aren't uncommon, this Mini Foldable Stream Light is a game changer. Whether you are an influencer who needs a well-lit selfie on the reg, a traveler who wants the best shots possible, or somewhere in between, this could be a helpful accessory.

First, its slim, portable design means it's portable enough to go with you anywhere. It features 66 professional bright eyecare beads to give your pics a more naturally bright look. You also get 24 RGB modes to adjust and play around with for different scenarios.

You can rest assured that you won't run out of power prematurely since the 1,000mAh battery gives you up to eight hours of power in one go. And all you need to do is recharge it and it's ready for more.

It gives you a 24-26IL-lumen output and a working temperature between 0ºC and 40ºC.

If you rely on your phone for capturing your best photos — whether professional or personal — this foldable light can help elevate the quality of any shot you take.

Pick up one of the following packs and save 23% for a limited time:

• Mini Foldable Stream Light, on sale for $22.99 (reg. $29)

• Two-Pack of Mini Foldable Stream Lights, on sale for $44.99 (reg. $58)

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shenzhen Centralspot Innovation Mini Foldable Stream Light $22.99 at the Mashable Shop
$29.99 Save $7.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: As of March 11, get this near-mint condition Lenovo refurb with 16GB RAM, a 256GB SSD, and a keyboard and mouse for only $119.99. 

Searching for refurbished tech isn't quite the same as finding something brand-new for more reasons than one. Of course, refurbished machines have slightly older hardware and quality varies, but supply also varies a lot because many machines aren't actively being manufactured anymore. 

That's why you may want to jump on a deal when you find it, like this near-mint condition Lenovo ThinkCentre. It has 16GB RAM, comes with a mouse and keyboard, and it's still only $119.99, but there aren't many left. 

Limited quantity — act fast

This Lenovo ThinkCentre refurb is compact, powerful, and may not even look refurbished. The "A" rating means it's in near-mint condition, but you might notice some very faint cosmetic signs of use, but they don't change how well this little machine works. 

This refurbished computer comes equipped with an Intel Core i3-2100 processor, 16 GB DDR3 RAM, and a 256 GB SSD. Windows 10 Home comes pre-installed, and you also get a mouse and keyboard. All you need to bring to the table is a monitor, and you're ready to work. 

With the mid-range specs and quality refurbishing, this computer could be a great match for productivity apps or office tasks. If you're looking for a device to use in school or for a remote worker with a small work area, this could be the one, but there aren't many left. 

Looks new, works new, priced low

Instead of burning a hole in your wallet for a brand-new computer when you don't need all the hardware that comes with that price tag, opt for a low-cost refurbished device that still has a ton to offer.

While they're available, you can get a near-mint condition refurbished Lenovo ThinkCentre for $119.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo ThinkCentre M71 SFF i3-2100 16GB 256GB SSD (Refurbished) $119.99 at the Mashable Shop
$221.99 Save $102.00 Get Deal

The 96th Annual Academy Awards were held on Sunday night, honouring some of the best films of 2023 (excluding Killers of the Flower Moon). It also featured a very nude John Cena, who lent his body to a cheeky bit referencing a similarly clothes-free attendee from Oscars history.

Cena wasn't up for any awards at the 2024 Oscars, though the well-known wrestler and actor did have a cameo in Best Original Song winner Barbie. Instead, he appeared onstage in his birthday suit to present the award for Best Costume Design alongside host Jimmy Kimmel.

SEE ALSO: All the winners from the 2024 Oscars

Poor Things ended up claiming that statue, but it wasn't the muscled masculine figure that captured most onlookers' attention. 

Why was John Cena naked at the Oscars?

Initially introducing the Best Costume Design category solo, Kimmel stated that it was the 50th anniversary of "what used to be the craziest moment in Oscar history" — a crown likely conceded when Will Smith slapped Chris Rock during the 2022 Academy Awards. Specifically, he recalled a streaking incident at the Oscars in 1974.

"Can you imagine if a nude man ran across the stage today?" said Kimmel. He then took a moment to wait before repeating. "I said, 'Can you imagine if a nude man ran across the stage today?'"

At this, Cena tentatively poked his head out from behind the set to tell the host he'd changed his mind about doing the streaking bit. Performing a scripted skit, Cena claimed that streaking didn't feel appropriate for such an "elegant event."

"Honestly, you should feel ashamed right now for suggesting such a tasteless idea," said Cena. "The male body is not a joke."

Failing to persuade Cena to go through with it, Kimmel told the wrestler to just give out the award, acting frustrated as he handed the wrestler the winner's envelope before exiting. The naked and afraid man was then left to tentatively edge out onto stage, with nothing but a pair of Birkenstocks and an oversized envelope to protect his modesty.

"Costumes," Cena said to significant laughter. "They are so important. Maybe the most important thing there is."

He then noted he wouldn't be able to actually open the envelope, prompting Kimmel to return and announce the nominees for Best Costume Design.

Was John Cena really nude, and was that his real butt?

The television broadcast cut to a montage of the nominees, so those at home didn't see how Cena got wrapped in a pale pink garment that looked like a theatre curtain. However, videos subsequently shared on social media showed that the stage lights went down and four people ran onstage to dress him during this interval, ensuring Cena was more comfortable and presentable when announcing Poor Things the winner.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

Such backstage images confirmed that Cena was almost fully nude, only wearing a beige modesty garment to cover his genitals and butt. It also offered viewers a side-on view of his butt, with many expressing awe and admiration for its impressive shape and size.

Cena's intimidating glutes are no surprise to longtime fans, but their brief time on the Oscars' stage has likely won them at least a few more devotees.

Credit: Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Who streaked at the Oscars in 1974?

The Oscars was previously disrupted by unscheduled nudity in 1974, when photographer Robert Opel streaked across the stage during the 46th Academy Awards. Making his run as host David Niven attempted to introduce Elizabeth Taylor, Opel's display prompted laughter and applause from the crowd. Streaking had been a significant trend at the time, with the host noting that such an event "was almost bound to happen." 

"Isn't it fascinating to think that probably the only laugh that man will ever get in his life is by stripping off and showing his shortcomings?" Niven quickly quipped.

Opel didn't have any particular motive aside from perhaps advocating for a more permissive societal approach to nudity. He also noted that it would be useful for elevating his own profile.

"It just occurred to me that it might be an educative thing to do," Opel reportedly said afterward. "You know, people shouldn’t be ashamed of being nude in public. Besides, it’s a hell of a way to launch a career."

Peacemaker actor Cena doesn't need any help in that regard, and was an invited guest rather than a bare skinned interloper. Still, his unexpectedly undressed appearance has left a significant impression.

TL;DR: A five-year subscription to AdGuard VPN is on sale for £31.17, saving you 89% on list price.

Unless you're living completely off the grid, we all have an online presence. And with that presence, there comes risk and vulnerability. If you don't already have a virtual private network (VPN), it should shoot to the top of your list. Using a VPN helps keep you safer online and less vulnerable to the shady stuff that we all know happens there. For a limited time, you can get a five-year subscription to AdGuard VPN for just £31.17.

Whether you're browsing, streaming, or working remotely, AdGuard VPN helps ensure that your online activities remain private and secure no matter where you are. AdGuard has over 60 network locations, which means you can travel and still have secure internet access nearly anywhere you want to go.

This data privacy tool uses its own strict security measures to ensure your data stays private — it even has a zero-logging policy. That means AdGuard does not track what you're doing or collect your information or IP address. You will remain totally private while browsing, shopping, creating, or watching.

This offer gets you connected to AdGuard VPN on up to 10 devices at the same time but is only available to new users. With updates included, you'll have access to all of its super-fast servers in every location. It also comes with unlimited data for streaming and downloading. Plus, it's compatible with all platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and Google Chrome.

Keep yourself and your family safe and protected online while home or away. Get this five-year subscription to AdGuard VPN for just £31.17, with no coupon needed.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdGuard VPN AdGuard VPN (5-Year Subscription) £31.17 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal

TL;DR: Find a wide range of free online courses from MIT on edX.

Lovers of learning should direct their attention to edX, because you can find a wide range of free online courses from some of the most famous educational institutions in the world. And that includes MIT.

To help you find the best free courses for you, we have checked out everything on offer from MIT and highlighted a selection of standout options to get you started. There should be something for everyone in this list.

These are the best free online courses from MIT this month:

• Becoming an Entrepreneur

• Biochemistry: Biomolecules, Methods, and Mechanisms

• Cell Biology: Transport and Signaling

• Circuits and Electronics 1: Basic Circuit Analysis

• Circuits and Electronics 2: Amplification, Speed, and Delay

• Circuits and Electronics 3: Applications

• Collaborative Data Science for Healthcare

• Derivatives Markets: Advanced Modeling and Strategies

• Energy Economics and Policy

• Financial Accounting

• Foundations of Modern Finance

• Genetics: Analysis and Applications

• Genetics: Population Genetics and Human Traits

• Genetics: The Fundamentals

• Introduction to Biology: The Secret of Life

• Introduction to Computational Thinking and Data Science

• Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python

• Machine Learning with Python: From Linear Models to Deep Learning

• Mathematical Methods for Quantitative Finance

• Supply Chain Analytics

• Sustainable Building Design

• Sustainable Energy

• Understanding the World Through Data

• World Music: Global Rhythms

These free courses do not come with a certificate of completion, but we're sure you can get over that. You can still learn at your own pace with unrestricted access to all the course materials, so there's nothing stopping you from enrolling.

Find the best free online courses from MIT on edX.

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Cozy crime is a subgenre in which intriguing tales of murder boast a jaunty aesthetic that's irreverently twee. Think Only Murders in the Building, with its foolhardy amateur sleuths alternately investigating homicide and bickering over their podcast's production. Think Pushing Daisies, a candy-colored mystery series about a lovelorn pie-maker who can literally raise the dead to solve their murders. Think Sew Torn. 

Written and directed by Freddy Macdonald, this inventive indie crime comedy begins with a drug deal gone violently wrong, before stitching together a multi-thread tale of an unlikely criminal mastermind: a mild-mannered mobile seamstress played by Eve Connolly (Vikings). 

What's Sew Torn about?

Sew Torn is set in a picturesque village high in the mountains, where a pleasant business district boasts quaint shops. One such shop is owned by seamstress Barbara Duggen (Connolly), who offers custom embroideries alongside alterations. Further out, vibrant green pastures dotted with cows stretch to a mighty concrete bridge overlooking a misty valley, reaching even farther to stately homes, where a wealthy bride-to-be (a hilariously harsh Caroline Goodall) is in a snit over a fallen button. 

In an opening in which Barbara barely speaks, Macdonald swiftly sets up how this young woman has shrunken in the shadow of her late mother, the original mobile seamstress. Trapped by her dedication to carry on her mother's work even as the family business fails, Barbara's fingers twitch at rebellion as she stitches. Her urge for self-sabotage might be ruinous, but at least it could bring something new. By flicking a button into a floor vent, she must flee the growling bride to get another. Barbara's lovely commute back to her village is interrupted when she comes across a pair of bumbling gangsters on a blood-spattered, remote road.

A clever lass, Barbara takes one quick look at the scene and assesses from the felled motorcycles, hobbled goons, and scattered bags of white powder that the briefcase skittered down the road is full of cash. "A perfect crime," she says to herself, seeing a solution to her financial woes. She doesn't just pick up the money and run, though. Instead, Barbara uses her handy seamstress kit and its brightly colored threads to create a Rube Goldberg machine that should neatly dispose of the messier bits of this could-be heist. Despite her quick thinking, things don't exactly go to plan. 

Sew Torn offers a collection of possibilities and quirky characters. 

In 1998, writer/director Tom Tykwer awed critics with his high-energy crime thriller Run Lola Run, which featured a flame-haired Franka Potente chasing down several different solutions to save her scheming boyfriend from a deadly fate. Sew Torn offers Barbara a similar bargain. When her perfect crime proves deeply flawed (and fatal), rather than leaving her bleeding out in a cornfield, Macdonald thrusts her back onto that road, staring down the coveted briefcase once more. 

Armed with some hard-won knowledge from her previous encounter with the briefcase, Barbara tries a new plan; she calls the cops. Well, actually, this village is so small that she calls the cop, an elderly woman who is not only the sheriff but also the local notary and the justice of the peace. Far from a hard-ass, K Callan (Poker Face, Knives Out) brings the energy of Coen brothers comedy, as her character can suss out bullshit with ease yet exudes patience and empathy. She'll collar all three of these crooks with the sternness of a school marm teaching a lesson. 

Here and throughout the other threads, Barbara's choices knit in a reluctant gangster (Calum Worthy), a frantic thug (Thomas Douglas), a chatty embroidery enthusiast (Ron Cook), and a merciless kingpin (John Lynch). Each gets their moment to shine via Sew Torn's curious narrative structure. Some imbrue menace, while others give off agony, and still others a boisterous warmth. Yet all would be for naught if Connolly weren't crushing the lead role. 

Eve Connolly proves she's a captivating leading lady in Sew Torn. 

While this crime comedy can get quite silly with its violent slapstick, thread-centric machinations, and kooky criminals, Barbara is the straight man surrounded by stooges. Her expression is often drawn, her eyes spiked with calculation. While other characters bloviate about their lives, Barbara is a much more internal character, her quietness making her seem all the more an outsider in her hometown. But Connolly makes sure Barbara never feels flat or passive. Voiceovers framing the beginning and the end give audiences a peek into Barbara's thinking, but mostly we rely on Connolly's sharp facial expression and precise physicality for insight. 

All of this interiority makes a sharp contrast in the third thread of the film all the more exciting. In this sequence, Barbara's only path to survival is to throw herself into a dance number. It is explosive and inexplicable. Her limbs fling about madly while her face is sharply focused. This is not a celebration; it is a scheme tied to strings. And of all the incredible things she pulls off with thread, it's the most climactic and wickedly fun. 

Macdonald enhances the fantastical possibilities of this crime-ridden tale with color, using vivid hues but a medium contrast. There's grays within these tones, perhaps reflecting Barbara's boredom with these surroundings despite their beauty. Yet there's no ignoring the boldness of things like the dazzling blue of her eyes, the harsh red of blood, and the bright yellow thread wrapped around the giant bobbin at the back of her teal Volkswagen bug (a cutesy signifier of her trade). Notably, each color is reflected in literal threads that prove crucial to Barbara's plans. Each burst of color speaks to Barbara's possibilities for more than mending. She can remake the world around her or tear it to shreds. But what to do with that knowledge?

Thanks to a crackling cast, a clever color scheme, and a plotline that's uniquely knotty, Macdonald makes Sew Torn a sensational experience. It has the cheeky fun of a top-notch crime comedy without losing the edge of life-or-death stakes. With a series of possibilities being unspooled, the movie is delightfully unpredictable. Its leading lady lands each beat, be it one of harrumphing frustration, a outrageous dance, or a dangerous hope. And in the end, it leaves its audience dizzy but satisfied by its wild spins. 

Sew Torn was reviewed out of its World Premiere at SXSW 2024.