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How to watch Diamond League Athletics Shanghai online for free

Mashable - 9 hours 52 min ago

TL;DR: Stream Diamond League Athletics Shanghai for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

When it comes to track and field, the eyes of the world will be on the Olympics. But athletes can't just stroll into the Stade de France later this year and expect to deliver the performance of a lifetime. No, even the most naturally gifted talents will need to build up to the main event. And that begins with the Diamond League.

If you want to watch Diamond League Athletics Shanghai for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Diamond League?

The Diamond League is an annual series of track and field competitions, with 15 invitational athletics meetings taking place all over the world this year.

When is Diamond League Athletics Shanghai?

Diamond League Athletics Shanghai starts at 7 a.m. ET on April 27. This event takes place at the Shanghai Stadium in Shanghai, China.

How to watch Diamond League Athletics Shanghai for free

Diamond League Athletics Shanghai is available to stream for free on BBC Sport and 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 Sport or BBC iPlayer

  5. Stream Diamond League Athletics Shanghai for free 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 streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can gain access to BBC iPlayer without actually spending anything. This is not a long-term solution, but it gives you plenty of time to stream Diamond League Athletics Shanghai before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for streaming live sport on 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 secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Stream Diamond League Athletics Shanghai for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Delhi Capitals vs. Mumbai Indians online for free

Mashable - 9 hours 52 min ago

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

Another day of the 2024 IPL has been ticked off, but there's still plenty of action to come. The latest season is now well and truly underway, with the Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians gearing up to compete next.

With some of the best cricket players in the world competing in the IPL, fans will be eager to catch this next fixture. Don't know where to tune in? We have all the information you need to watch Delhi Capitals vs. Mumbai Indians live.

When is Delhi Capitals vs. Mumbai Indians?

Delhi Capitals vs. Mumbai Indians starts at 11 a.m. BST on April 27. This match will take place at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, India.

How to watch Delhi Capitals vs. Mumbai Indians for free

Through JioCinema you can watch live streams of all 2024 IPL cricket matches in 4K resolution on its app.

JioCinema is geo-restricted to India, but you can unblock this streaming service with a VPN. VPNs can hide your real IP address (i.e. your digital location) and connect you to a secure server in India, so 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. Mumbai Indians 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 aren't free but often offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can watch IPL live streams without parting with any money. Of course, this is not a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch your favorite 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 £82.82 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream the IPL for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for April 27

Mashable - 11 hours 52 min ago

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for April 27's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles used to be available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it. Unfortunately, it has since been taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Shine brightly.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no letters that appear twice.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter G.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to Wordle #1043 is...

GLEAM.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Reporting by Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for April 27

Mashable - 12 hours 52 min ago

Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for April 27's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer. If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hit about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

  • Yellow: Hesitant confidence

  • Green: Lights went out

  • Blue: Plot

  • Purple: Homophones

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

  • Yellow: Trust as Real

  • Green: Power Issues

  • Blue: Summary

  • Purple: Name Homophones

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to Connections #321 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Trust as Real: ACCEPT, BELIEVE, BUY, SWALLOW

  • Power Issues: OUTAGE, SHORT, SPIKE, SURGE

  • Summary: ABSTRACT, BRIEF, DIGEST, OUTLINE

  • Name Homophones: CURT, HAIRY, KNEEL, WANE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Is this not the Connections game you were looking for? Here are the hints and answers to yesterday's Connections.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Elon Musk reportedly on the verge of raising billions for his AI company

Mashable - 15 hours 27 min ago

Elon Musk's OpenAI competitor is getting ready to raise some big money from Silicon Valley.

According to new, anonymously-sourced reports from The Information and TechCrunch, Musk's AI company xAI is currently raising $6 billion on a $18 billion pre-money valuation, and the deal is expected to close in a matter of weeks.

SEE ALSO: If you're a paying X user, Elon Musk wants his Grok AI to write your posts for you, report says

Musk's ten-month-old AI company is looking to take OpenAI on directly after Musk openly criticized and feuded with the AI giant that he helped create. Musk has long ragged on OpenAI's change in ethos, criticizing the company's move from an open, nonprofit model to a more secretive, profit-seeking approach.

According to reports, Musk and associates have been pitching xAI to investors as an AI brand that will one day integrate with Musk's various companies like Tesla, SpaceX, The Boring Company, and Neuralink. TechCrunch reports that the pitch claims that xAI will be different from other AI companies because it will "master the physical world." The pitch says that one day xAI will train on the data from all of Musk's companies and then be able to aid Tesla in creating (still nonexistent) full self-driving cars and its (still underdevelopment) robot Optimus.

It should come as no surprise if Musk has no problem raising big money from tech venture capitalists. Musk has many friends in Silicon Valley, and even though his reputation has taken hits recently, sympathetic VC firms have long been a feature of his support network. As TechCrunch notes, one of the participants in this round of funding is Future Ventures, which was co-founded by Musk's old associate Steve Jurvetson.

However, as xAI gets ready to raise billions, it's important to note that its only real product at this point is Grok, the AI chatbot integrated into Musk's social media company X, formerly known as Twitter. And, as Mashable and other outlets have reported, Grok isn't really any good. Just recently the AI chatbot could not tell the difference between real news and a joke, and reported a humorous post as actual legitimate news. Grok also recently made up a fake story about Iran striking Tel Aviv with missiles, which X then promoted to its hundreds of millions of users.

But, regardless of Grok's failures, Musk is utilizing the hype around xAI to bail X out. According to TechCrunch, X owns a stake in xAI, so the social media company, which has seen revenue fall off a cliff under Musk's ownership, will profit from...whatever happens with xAI.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Quick, the PlayStation Portal is back in stock at two different stores

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 22:39

UPDATE: Apr. 26, 2024, 4:40 p.m. EDT We've updated this story after confirming that next week's Early Access Event at Walmart will be limited to paid members of its Walmart+ program. In other words, you'll have to upgrade from the free trial tier to buy the PlayStation Portal during the sale.

Quick links: PlayStation Portal restock In Stock PlayStation Portal Remote Player $199.99 at Best Buy Buy Now In Stock PlayStation Portal Remote Player $199.99 at PlayStation Direct Buy Now Coming Soon PlayStation Portal Remote Player $199 at Walmart starting April 29 at 12 p.m. ET (paid Walmart+ membership required) Learn More

Sony's PlayStation Portal Remote Player has been relatively difficult to buy, flitting in and out of stock at various retailers ever since its mid-November launch. But luck is currently on wannabe buyers' sides: It's back up for grabs at Best Buy and PlayStation Direct as of April 26.

Priced at $199.99, the Portal is a handheld PlayStation 5 accessory that lets players stream their games on the go via the console's Remote Play feature; it looks like a DualSense controller that's been spliced in half by an eight-inch LCD screen. Function-wise, it's nothing revolutionary — you can do the exact same thing on a smartphone (for free!) — and its ability to work successfully largely depends on the strength of your internet connection. Still, Mashable's Alex Perry was a reluctant fan.

"Portal's excellent form factor, good display, and overall usefulness have outweighed its numerous problems for me," Perry wrote in his review, hedging his recommendation with advice to wait for a discount. (Spoiler: That probably won't be happening anytime soon, judging by its persistent hard-to-findness.)

SEE ALSO: PlayStation Portal: It's both life-changing and frustrating at the same time

If the Portal happens to sell out at Best Buy and PlayStation Direct before you can add it to your cart, you'll have another chance to buy it at Walmart in the near future. From Monday, April 29 at 12 p.m. ET to the same time the following day, the big-box store will be hosting an Early Access Event for paid (non-trial) Walmart+ members that features limited availability of exclusive and hard-to-buy items.

Most of said items will be groceries, per a press release — think KeKe Palmer-autographed Chips Ahoy! bundles, a Dolly Parton baking mix collection, and mystery-flavored Flamin' Hot Doritos — but a Portal restock will (very randomly) sneak in there, too.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Sabrina Carpenter's 'Espresso' is the internet's Song of the Summer

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 20:54

There are four little words that the girls just can't get out of their heads: "That's that me espresso" — a little nonsensical, a lot catchy.

They seem to answer the season's hottest question: What's the Song of the Summer? Sabrina Carpenter's sun-drenched hit, "Espresso," is currently the top contender. While artists scramble to promote their summer bops on TikTok and stan Twitter battles it out, Carpenter is not-so-quietly poised to take the crown.

SEE ALSO: Taylor Swift's brand is mightier than her pen

The Extremely Online — a.k.a. X / Twitter users — are constantly referencing, reworking, and memeifying the song's lyrics.

Carpenter is no stranger to internet attention. She's a former Disney Channel star who, back in 2021, was the infamous "blonde girl" referenced in Olivia Rodrigo's "Driver's License." But in 2022, Carpenter released her album Emails I Can't Send, establishing herself as her own distinct pop princess.

As one user wrote, "I love the duality that Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter provide as counterparts… Olivia's songs are like 'I'm so insecure and crazy and I'm going to die' and Sabrina’s are like 'every boy is in love with me and that makes complete sense.'"

Tweet may have been deleted

Carpenter recently opened for Taylor Swift on the Latin America leg of The Eras Tour and performed at Coachella, catapulting her to stardom. (The other pop star hovering around a similar come-up is Chappell Roan, who opened for Rodrigo on her GUTS World Tour and also performed at Coachella.)

Carpenter routinely goes viral for her suggestive outros to her biggest hit, "Nonsense," which she tailors to the city where she's performing. Just last week at Coachella she sang, "Made his knees so weak he had to spread mine / He's drinking my bath water like it's red wine / Coachella see you back here when I headline," referencing her relationship with Saltburn star Barry Keoghan. (Keoghan brought even more attention to "Espresso" when he posted a photo of a cup of coffee on his Instagram story with the blonde queen emoji.)

Tweet may have been deleted

But now fans and casual listeners alike can't stop returning to "me espresso," the odd phrasing birthing so many memes.

One user wrote, "don't talk to me until i've had my me espresso." Another clarified, "that’s that me espresso. that’s that me espresso. that? that’s that me espresso. oh that? that’s that me espresso. that thing you’ve got? right there? that’s that me espresso. yeah." Someone else captioned a video of a waitress pouring a cup of coffee on her foot, "that’s that me espresso."

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Other users are obsessed with just how blonde both the song and Carpenter are. One user uploaded the meme "Actually, can I have five more of these little blonde bitches?" with the caption, "me listening to espresso." Another observed, "Me Espresso..a most pleasing track to me. It's not often you can hear the Blonde come through in the recording anymore." Someone else said, "that espresso song by the little blonde bitch goes crazy i'm sorry."

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The coffee community is also embracing the track as their anthem. Multiple users have thanked Carpenter. One said, "13 year old girl came in to my barista job and asked 'can i get one espresso? wait actually what’s in an espresso?' so thank u sabrina carpenter."

Another wrote, "Sabrina Carpenter is my hero for teaching an entire generation of people that the word is ESpresso, not EXpresso."

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Pop enjoyers, Irish "It" boys, blonde fanatics, and coffee lovers...we've got a hit on our hands.

Categories: IT General, Technology

No one's talking about the Apple Vision Pro anymore — and this may be why

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 20:33

Apple took a leap just two months ago and launched an entire brand new product category for the company with the release of the Apple Vision Pro.

In the days and weeks after its February release, Apple's new AR/VR headset was the talk of social media. Tech reviewers raved about how using it was a glimpse into the future of home computers. And the Apple Vision Pro memes were in abundance. Who can forget the guy who wore an Apple Vision Pro at his wedding?

Then February came and went — and there's not much talk about anymore. It turns out that there's likely a good reason for the sudden silence around the product: the Apple Vision Pro simply isn't selling.

SEE ALSO: I used AI to plan my Costa Rica trip — why I'll never use it again Apple Vision Pro sales tank

According to prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple has revised its Apple Vision Pro shipment expectations for 2024 down to 400,000 to 450,000 units. 

Apple originally expected to sell as many as 800,000 Apple Vision Pro units this year, reports Kuo, who has accurately broken news on the company over the years due to his supply chain contacts.

This means that Apple had to reduce its sales expectations for the Apple Vision Pro by as much as 50 percent.

Furthermore, Kuo reports that Apple revised these numbers before launching the Apple Vision Pro in markets outside the U.S. Kuo takes that to mean that U.S. sales have declined sharply, forcing Apple to adjust its expectations for international markets as well.

However, this shouldn't be too surprising.

Apple launched a brand new product in the emerging, relatively nascent product category of AR/VR headsets. On top of that, the starting price point of $3,499 heavily reduces the potential consumer base for the Apple Vision Pro. Most consumers just aren't willing to fork over thousands of dollars for a head-mounted display.

It's also interesting that the Apple Vision Pro swiftly faded from online discussion after much fanfare. As Fast Company points out, Google Trends data shows that general interest in the Apple Vision Pro completely dropped shortly after its release and has continued on a downward trend.

The incoming issues for Apple with the Apple Vision Pro were even visible to Mashable when we attended the big Apple Vision Pro launch at the 5th Avenue Apple Store in Manhattan where even Apple CEO Tim Cook was in attendance. There were lines for the event, but unlike other Apple release day events, those lines dissipated fairly quickly. Even more interesting was that quite a few people had lined up due to the hype and wanted to try the Apple Vision Pro out, with no intent of making a purchase.

It's unclear where Apple plans to takes its AR/VR headset ambitions from here. According to Kuo, there was a prediction that Apple would release a new Apple Vision Pro model in 2025 – something that the analyst is no longer expecting now.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Grab the Apple Watch Series 9 for its lowest price yet at Amazon

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 19:13

SAVE $100: Get the Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 41mm) for $299, down from $399, at Amazon. That's 25% off Apple's latest smartwatch and its lowest price yet.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 41mm) $299.00 at Amazon
$399.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

A smartwatch can change the way you track your health and fitness levels and make it easier to stay on top of messages without always having to pull out your phone, but they can come with a hefty price tag. Grab a new Apple Watch and make it easier on your wallet with a deal at Amazon today.

As of April 26, you can score the latest Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 41mm) for $399 at Amazon. That's $100, or 25%, off the original price for Apple's latest smartwatch — and its lowest price yet.

We've yet to test the Series 9, but the Series 8 is our current best overall smartwatch. The latest model is outfitted with the S9 chip, providing a vibrant display and a new mechanism that lets you interact with the watch without touching the screen. The Apple Watch has extensive exercise tracking and is water-resistant up to 50 meters, which means you don't need to slip it off before jumping in the pool. In fact, it will help you track your laps during your next workout.

SEE ALSO: Apple deals are on the sparse side this week, with MacBook deals offering the most options

In addition to its activity tracking, the Apple Watch has health features such as heart rate monitoring, temperature sensing, and sleep tracking. It also has fall and crash detection to help you connect with emergency services when you need them.

The Apple Watch Series 9 is a great extension for iPhone users, and now is a great time to buy with this Amazon deal.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Have a Ring camera? The FTC may send you a refund — how to claim it

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 18:40

You may have a bit of money coming your way — and all you had to do to get it was endure a breach of your privacy.

The Federal Trade Commission announced this week that settlement payments stemming from a 2023 complaint against the doorbell camera company Ring have started going out to affected customers. Ring reached the settlement after the FTC accused it of "egregious violations of users' privacy," including allowing employees and contractors to see videos, which were used to train algorithms without customer consent.

SEE ALSO: The best sex toys on Amazon

How to get Ring settlement payout

As a result of the settlement, 117,044 Ring owners are getting direct payments for their troubles. These payments will be sent out via PayPal to affected users — and there's no need to manually make a claim for the money. Eligible customers should have received an email notification this week letting them know the money is available. It must be claimed from PayPal within 30 days.

The FTC says to call 1-833-637-4884 if you have a problem with your payment. That number belongs to Rust Consulting Inc., the company responsible for doling out the payments.

Needless to say, there are plenty of reasons not to own a Ring camera. But if you do own one, you might get a little bit of money out of it a few years later, at least.

Categories: IT General, Technology

What is a VPN? Here’s what you need to know

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 18:35

What is a VPN? To simply scratch the surface, a virtual private network (VPN) spoofs your location, makes you anonymous online, and gives you the keys to unlock the full breadth of the web. 

With all the third-party advertisers snooping on your personal data and scammers trying to steal it all, the best VPNs have become an easy way to protect your digital privacy. But what exactly is it? And how on earth can it make your internet service provider (ISP) believe you’re streaming in Japan when you’re actually sitting on your couch in another country? 

SEE ALSO: The best cheap VPNs in April 2024 What is a VPN?

A VPN is an encrypted internet connection between your device and a remote server. By encrypting your traffic through a private tunnel, often through military-grade AES-256 encryption, all your online activities will be hidden from prying eyes. Unlike Incognito mode, this means your ISP, hackers lurking on public networks, and even government entities can’t see what you’re doing. 

Connecting to these remote servers, which are provided by VPN services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark, will also mask your real IP address and location. This unique identifier is given to you by your ISP to track your location, but a VPN server offers its own IP address. Therefore, when you connect to a server in another country, you can effectively fool websites and online services into thinking you’re in a completely different destination. 

It’s a neat trick, especially when you’re trying to access geo-restricted websites or streaming services with country-specific content libraries to binge-watch your favorite shows. Better yet, many VPN providers have thousands of servers placed around the globe, giving you an ample amount of ways to browse through the multitude of international streaming platforms out there. 

Another perk is ignoring ISP throttling. This is a nasty way for your internet provider to limit your bandwidth, but if your ISP can’t recognize you when using a VPN, then it can’t restrict your internet speeds. That’s a big bonus for online multiplayer games and anyone who experiences excruciatingly long buffering times. 

It isn’t just about streaming and boosting speeds, as a VPN’s main purpose is to offer anonymity when browsing on public Wi-Fi, bypass region-restricted websites, and keep your online activity encrypted. 

Essentially, no hacker threats, no government eyes snooping about your business, and no problems accessing the site of your choice — even if you’re heading to countries with heightened internet censorship including the UAE, Cuba, or China. 

So, why are there hundreds of VPNs to choose from if they all basically do the same job? Each service can provide different perks, from the number of servers it provides and its various locations in select cities and countries to its compatibility with laptops, PCs, smartphones, and gaming consoles, along with multiple security options.

If you’re ready to give your device a security (and streaming) upgrade with a VPN, our list of the best VPNs (and best cheap VPNs for the budget-conscious) will point you in the right direction. 


Categories: IT General, Technology

Jam out with discounted Apple AirPods Pro right now at Amazon

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 18:26

SAVE $49.01: As of April 26, get the 2nd generation AirPods Pro for just $199.99 at Amazon. That's a 20% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) $199.99 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $49.01 Get Deal

When it comes to earbuds, few do it better than Apple. If you're one of the few listeners left out there without a pair of AirPods but are thinking about taking the plunge, now's a great time to do so. The 2nd generation Apple AirPods Pro are available at a great price at Amazon so you don't have to suffer audio FOMO any longer.

As of April 26, you can get the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) for just $199.99 at Amazon. That's a 20% discount and $49.01 off their normal price of $249. Not quite their lowest price ever, but still worth grabbing at this discount.

You won't find many better options out there at this price point with similarly capable noise cancellation. They're a major upgrade from regular AirPods, with tips that fit in your ears more snugly, support for spatial and adaptive audio, and of course, excellent sound. They're perfect for getting as immersed in your music, podcasts, or calls as possible – and they pair quickly and easily with your iOS devices.

Sure, there are more affordable options out there, but you're getting what you pay for with this model. If you're ready for an upgrade, go ahead and grab yours before they go back to their normal price.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get a Dyson V8 for under $350 and tackle dust for good

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 18:18

GET 26% OFF: As of April 26, you can get a Dyson V8 cordless vacuum for $349 at Amazon, Walmart, and Dyson, down from $469.99. That's $120.99 off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson V8 cordless vacuum $349.00 at Amazon
$469.99 Save $120.99 Get Deal

Dyson is one of the most coveted household brands, from vacuums to haircare tools. But cult-favorite Dyson products also often come with sky-high prices. Today, you can experience the Dyson difference for less with a good deal on a cordless vacuum.

As of April 26, a Dyson V8 cordless vacuum is available at Amazon for just $349, down from $469.99, saving you $120.99, or 26%. You can also grab the V8 for just 99 cents more at Walmart and Dyson.

SEE ALSO: The best vacuum cleaners for picking up pet hair

With its powerful digital motor and lightweight design, the Dyson V8 easily transitions from carpets to hard floors. Plus, its cordless design offers cleaning freedom without the hassle of a cord. Its Detangling Motorbar is made for homes with pets, with a hair screw tool that's ideal for dealing with fur-filled homes and a crevice tool that helps you reach those hard-to-clean areas (it easily converts into a handheld as well).

Whether you're tackling pet hair, dust, or crumbs, the Dyson V8 has you covered with its no-touch bin emptying system and 40-minute run time.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save $50 on the Meta Quest 2 at Amazon and dive into an alternate reality

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 18:01

SAVE $50.99: The Meta Quest 2 (128GB) VR headset is on sale for $199 at Amazon, marked down from the normal price of $249.99. That's a 20% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Meta Meta Quest 2 (128GB) $199.00 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $50.99 Get Deal

If your favorite games are feeling a bit blah these days, you can invest some money and time into a handful of new games. Or you could experience your games in a way you never have before. If you're curious about virtual reality headsets, check out this deal at Amazon today.

As of April 26, the Meta Quest 2 (128GB) VR headset is on sale for just $199, marked down from the normal price of $249.99. That's a savings of $50.99 or a 20% discount.

Although Meta has already released the Quest 3, the Quest 2 could still be perfect for some. Sure, the Quest 3 has fancier stats, but those also come with a higher price tag. Thanks to today's deal at Amazon, the Quest 2 can be yours for a significant savings over investing in the Quest 3. This means if you're looking for a budget-friendly option, the Quest 2 is the optimal choice.

Setting you free from wires and cords, the Quest 2 sends you off into a virtual reality that many people love for both gaming and working out. Meta mentions this model is compatible with over 500 titles of games, fitness, and entertainment options.

If you've been worried about injuring yourself or your belongings while in the virtual reality, don't fret. The Meta Quest 2 includes a Guardian boundary so you can indicate your desired play area and you'll get an alert if you travel outside of that designated space.

The two touch controllers are lightweight and come with wrist straps that can help with keeping the controllers in your hands. Since the Quest 2 has a wireless connection and a built-in battery, you can pack it along to a friend's house or on your next weekend getaway.

If you've been curious about a virtual reality headset but felt the price tag was pretty steep, today's deal at Amazon should help ease some hesitation. Hurry to score the Meta Quest 2 for just $199.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon deal of the day: The M3 MacBook Air just hit its lowest price on record

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 17:57
Amazon deals of the day at a glance: OUR TOP PICK 13.6-inch MacBook Air (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $989 at Amazon (save $110) Get Deal BEST SMARTWATCH DEAL Fitbit Versa 4 smartwatch $104.96 at Amazon (save $94.99) Get Deal BEST HEADPHONES DEAL Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $189 at Amazon (save $90) Get Deal BEST HOME DEAL Google Nest Doorbell (battery) $129.99 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal

You've made it through another work week. You deserve a little treat. Why not do a little shopping?

There are always deals to be found at Amazon, and we're pros at spotting the ones worth your money. There are plenty of discounts that are too good to be true, sadly, but there are also a lot of gems hiding in plain sight. We've sorted through pages of deals to handpick a few of the best ones for you to shop on April 26 – with top brands like Apple, Google, Fitbit, and Bose headlining the list.

Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day. And don't forget to check out our top picks from April 24 and April 25, as many of those discounts are still going strong.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Amazon deal of the day: 13.6-inch MacBook Air (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $989.00 at Amazon
$1,099.00 Save $110.00 Get Deal

The M3 MacBook Air might not look all that different from the M2 from the outside, but take a peek inside and you'll certainly be wowed. The zippier M3 chip is an impressive 60 percent faster than the M1 chip from the 2020 Air models and about 15% faster than the M2. Plus, it features WiFi 6E (a step up from last generation) and it has support for up to two 5K, 60Hz external displays (when it's closed).

As a bonus, it also comes in a new midnight black shade. We haven't had a chance to test out the 13.6-inch model, but we did review the 15-inch version and were impressed by its powerful performance, noting that it "continues to blur the line of the Air and Pro models, providing ample “oomph” for creatives, professionals, and students who need robust performance that can handle their multifaceted workflows." As of April 26, the base model M3 Air (with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD) is on sale for only $989 — that's $110 in savings and the lowest price on record.

Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Fitbit Versa 4 smartwatch $104.96 at Amazon
$199.95 Save $94.99 Get Deal

We featured the Fitbit Versa 4 in our Amazon deals of the day roundup just a few days ago, but now it's $44.99 cheaper. As of April 26, it's on sale for just $104.96, bringing it down to its lowest price to date. Released in the latter half of 2023, the Versa 4 sports a larger selection of built-in fitness features over its predecessor, notable design and usability upgrades, and a more responsive touch screen. We haven't had a chance to review it, but we were very fond of the previous iteration, the Versa 3. Not to mention, our friends over at PCMag (which is owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis) tested the new model and found it to be "a strong option for anyone in search of an attractive fitness-focused smartwatch that keeps things simple."

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $189.00 at Amazon
$279.00 Save $90.00 Get Deal

Earlier this month, we featured the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II in our Amazon deals of the day roundup when they matched a previous all-time low cost of $199. As of April 26, however, the comfortable and customizable earbuds are $10 cheaper, dropping them down to a new low of $189. We particularly love that these buds intelligently adjust noise cancellation and sound performance to suit your ears and your environment. They include three sets of ear tips and stability bands for ultimate comfort as well. We haven't had a chance to review the newest version, but we were big fans of the original QuietComfort Earbuds. Plus, our friends at PCMag (which is owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis) gave them a near-perfect rating and an Editor's Choice award.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Nest Doorbell (battery) $129.99 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Add another set of eyes to watch over your front door with the Google Nest Doorbell. With its built-in intelligence, it can notify you if a person, package, animal, or vehicle is approaching. It's powered by a rechargeable battery, so you can easily install it anywhere. Just download the Google Home app and you can check in from anywhere 24/7 or see what you missed with three hours of free event video history. It's usually a $179.99 purchase, but as of April 26, it's on sale for $129.99 — that's 28% in savings and its lowest price since early January. For what it's worth, it's also the same price at Best Buy and the Google Store.

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

Snag a 13-inch M3 MacBook Air at its lowest price yet

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 17:34

SAVE $110: As of April 26, the 13.6-inch Apple MacBook Air (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is on sale for $989. That's a 10% discount and the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon 13.6-inch MacBook Air (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $989.00 at Amazon
$1,099.00 Save $110.00 Get Deal

Time to pick up a new laptop? A new MacBook might be the way to go, especially since you can get one of the newest MacBook Air models for the lowest price we've seen so far. Just a week ago, the M3 MacBook Air hit a new low of $999, but now it's come down even lower. If you skipped locking in your own when this sale went live, your patience is about to be duly rewarded.

As of April 26, the 13.6-inch MacBook Air (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is now $989 at Amazon. That's $110 off its normal price of $1,099 and a discount of 10%, making this the cheapest price for this MacBook since its debut earlier this year.

SEE ALSO: Apple deals are on the sparse side this week, with MacBook deals offering the most options

This M3-powered laptop is a lightweight yet highly capable computer that's perfect for multitasking. It's slim and sleek, yet it can handle running multiple apps at once with ease (or keep all 46 of your tabs open at once). It has a gorgeous screen and support for dual display if you plan on using it with a keyboard and mouse. With a lengthy all-day battery life and hardy frame, this is an ideal option for a daily driver.

If you've been waiting for the right time to go ahead and bring home a MacBook, let this be your sign to grab the M3 MacBook at an even lower price than last time it went on sale.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get up to 29% off Logitech mice, keyboards, and more at Amazon

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 17:22

GET UP TO 29% OFF: As of April 26, you can score up to 29% off Logitech mice, keyboards, and more at Amazon.

Our top picks: Best mouse deal Logitech M510 wireless mouse $21.99 at Amazon (save $6) Get Deal Best webcam deal Logitech Brio 101 full HD webcam $29.79 at Amazon (save $10.20) Get Deal Best headset deal Logitech H390 wired headset $20.89 at Amazon (save $4.10) Get Deal

Working from home isn't all it's cracked up to be. Sure, it's convenient and gives you a chance to escape the nightmarish commute that so many others are forced to make every day, but staying focused can be a real struggle.

SEE ALSO: The best keyboards for your home office

We all know the temptations: endless distractions like household chores, social media, and personal errands that are just a few steps away. But what makes this whole ordeal even harder is not having the right equipment. A creaky or uncomfortable chair, glitchy mouse, or sticky keyboard can put a real damper on your productivity and make it even harder to stay focused and get things done.

The good news? Upgrading your work-from-home setup with the right equipment can make a big difference. Here's where Logitech comes in. As of April 26, you can get up to 29% off select Logitech products, including keyboards, mice, and more.

Here are our favorite deals from the sale:

Best mouse deal Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Our pick: Logitech M510 wireless mouse $21.99 at Amazon
$27.99 Save $6.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Logitech M510 wireless mouse has more than 29,000 positive ratings and a 4.7-star rating on Amazon. Its ergonomic design and long battery life (two years!) make it perfect for all-day use. And, with three standard buttons and a scroll wheel, you can zoom, scroll, and browse the web without lifting a finger.

This mouse is compatible with Windows, Chrome, and Linux Operating systems.

Best webcam deal Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Our pick: Logitech Brio 101 full HD webcam $29.79 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $10.20 Get Deal Why we like it

The Logitech Brio 101 full HD webcam is way better than the standard webcam built into your laptop or monitor. It features 1080p resolution and advanced Logitech RightLight 3 technology, which adjusts the lighting to ensure you always look your best on video calls. Plus, the privacy slide cover gives you peace of mind when you're not using it.

Best headset deal Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Our pick: Logitech H390 wired headset $20.89 at Amazon
$24.99 Save $4.10 Get Deal Why we like it

The Logitech H390 wired headset is ideal for anyone dealing with a lot of background noise during work calls or video conferences. This headset features a rotating noise-cancelling mic that helps block out unwanted sounds, so you can feel confident presenting mid-month numbers without distractions. If you're worried about the cord getting in your way, don't be — it's long enough to give you plenty of freedom to move around.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Grab a Fitbit fitness tracker at Amazon for up to 53% off

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 17:02

Whether you're new to fitness tracking or are looking for an upgrade from your current model, Amazon has several Fitbits on sale today.

Best Fitbit deals at Amazon today Best deal on an advanced Fitbit Fitbit Sense 2 $139.96 at Amazon with on-page coupon (save $159.99) Get Deal Best deal on a smaller-sized Fitbit Fitbit Charge 6 $139.95 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal Best deal on a Fitbit for kids Fitbit Ace 3 (black/racer red) $39.95 at Amazon (save $39.05) Get Deal

Fitness trackers do far more than just count your steps. These days, the devices can help determine if you're getting enough sleep, give an overview of average heartrate, and track your workouts with GPS.

If you've been considering buying a Fitbit fitness tracker, Amazon's discounted prices might help out with your decision. Here are some great Fitbit deals to shop today.

Best deal on an advanced Fitbit Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Our pick: Fitbit Sense 2 $139.95 at Amazon
$299.95 Save $160.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Fitbit Sense 2 is on sale for just $139.95 at Amazon with the on-page coupon, marked down from the normal price of $299.95, which translates to a 53% discount. This model comes with some pretty special extras like insights into sleep, a smart wake alarm, and a stress-management score.

Of course, you'll get other fitness tracker features like heart rate readings, GPS, and a daily readiness score to help you plan the day's workout. In addition to the Fitbit Sense 2, you'll also get a six-month Fitbit Premium membership for more advanced analysis.

Best deal on a smaller-sized Fitbit Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Our pick: Fitbit Charge 6 $139.95 at Amazon
$159.95 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you prefer the look and feel of a smaller fitness tracker, the Fitbit Charge 6 could be perfect, and it's currently on sale for just $139.95 at Amazon. While smaller in size, it performs well in terms of function. You'll get up to seven days of battery life while the watch tracks your fitness goals, sleep, and heart rate. The Fitbit Charge 6 has automatic exercise tracking, so you don't have to worry about starting or stopping tracking while out on a run, walk, or bike ride. It's also water resistant up to about 150 feet, so you'll have no trouble with taking this watch to swim laps at the local pool this summer.

Along with the Fitbit Charge 6, this deal includes two watch bands, size small and size large, so you can find the most comfortable fit.

Best deal on a Fitbit for kids Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Our pick: Fitbit Ace 3 (black/racer red) $39.95 at Amazon
$79.00 Save $39.05 Get Deal Why we like it

If your kids notice your fitness tracker and want in on the fun, the Fitbit Ace 3 is designed for kids ages six and up. Today's deal brings the black/racer red colorway of the Ace 3 to just $39.95, down from the normal price of $79, which means you'll be saving 49%.

Fitbit animated the clock face of the Fitbit Ace 3 to grow and develop as kids move around throughout the day and get closer to reaching personal goals. The fitness tracker also monitors sleep, helping kids with bedtime reminders and silencing alarms. The tracker is also water resistant so a summer day spent at the pool or the beach is no problem.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Grab the Bose QuietComfort headphones for $100 off

Mashable - Fri, 04/26/2024 - 16:06

Save $100: Bose QuietComfort headphones are back down to their lowest price on Amazon — just $249 for a limited time. That's a 29% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Headphones $249.00 at Amazon
$349.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

If you're preparing to jet set this summer, you'll want a pair of noise-cancelling headphones to block out your fellow passengers and lock in to your favorite playlist or audiobook. Luckily, Bose's QuietComfort headphones are back down to their lowest price on Amazon, just $249 for a limited time. That's a $100 saving to pocket for your vacation.

We love Bose's QuietComfort Ultra earbuds that sit comfortably in your ear and provide stellar noise cancellation and sound quality. These over-the-ear headphones offer many of the same features, including an exceptionally long battery life of 24 hours at full charge. The headphones stay powered up from the airport to your final destination — no mid-flight charging when you have to suffer through your neighbor's snores. But if you do need a charge, a quick 15 minutes provides another 2.5 hours of listening time.

The Bose QuietComfort headphones are wireless, connecting via Bluetooth, however they do come with an audio cable for tuning into in-flight entertainment. The noise-cancelling mode can be turned off to go into "aware mode", so you can tune back into your surroundings when necessary.

Don't miss out on this Bose QuietComfort headphone deal and snag them for $100 off.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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