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The best free dating apps for budget-conscious singles

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:00

Dating isn't just hard; it's expensive. Luckily, modern tech has made dating more accessible and affordable, and the best free dating apps promise to connect you with your potential soul mate — no credit card required. (We know, it sounds too good to be true.)

Thanks to advanced filters, matching algorithms, and location-based features, dating apps have made it easier to connect with others without worrying about your wallet or whether or not you're meeting an axe murderer (we're looking at you, Craigslist).

Are any dating apps completely free?

Dating apps like Tinder, OkCupid, and Hinge have a free version that holds its own against its paid counterparts. That said, there are also some completely free, more niche dating apps worth checking out too, like Archer, Lex, and heybaby.

SEE ALSO: The dating app glossary: The A to Z of terms you need to know

Finding love (or a fun distraction) shouldn't cost a fortune. That why we tested dozens of dating platforms to find the best free dating apps. Whether you're an introvert, a college student, or just looking for some steamy sexting action, we've got you covered.

Below, find our top picks for the best free dating apps. Use them to find your forever partner, a casual encounter, or something in between without paying a dime.

Note: It's almost impossible to find a dating site or app without some sort of paid upgrade feature, but all of the dating sites below have a free membership option that gives you almost everything you need for the full experience. These aren't apps like Match or eharmony, where you need to pay to do basically anything.

Featured Video For You These dating sites and apps are perfect for people on a budget
Categories: IT General, Technology

The best cheap laptops for 2024, tested and reviewed

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:00

When it comes to shopping for the best cheap laptops, you can do a lot with $1,000. (Heck, even $500 cuts some mustard nowadays.) But you'll probably have to make some compromises along the way to stay below that price point.

That doesn't mean you have to settle for a total clunker that doesn't tick any of the boxes on your must-have specs list. It just means you have to shop a little smarter than someone with unlimited funds — and that's where we come in.

After meticulously hands-on testing the best laptops, we can recommend several affordable laptops for different budgets, operating system loyalties, and use cases. Read on for our guide to the best cheap laptops of 2024.

FYI: We've listed the pricing and specs of our testing units, which may not apply to each laptop's base model.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Our top 4 robot vacuums for carpet and rugs, tested

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:00

UPDATE: May. 11, 2024, 5:00 a.m. EDT Two top picks in this story have shifted after Mashable writers were able to hands-on test CES 2024 releases from Roborock and Eufy in their own homes.

Nearly any robot vacuum can sufficiently clear a hardwood, tile, or laminate floor of the hair and crumbs blowing across it like tumbleweeds. But a robot vacuum working on carpet requires much more meticulousness to uproot the debris embedded in the pile.

In homes with more than hard floors and light foot traffic, buying the cheapest robot vacuum you can find will likely create more hassle than it's worth. Every time that bot gets stuck on a rug corner or welcomes you home to pet hair still visibly clinging to the living room carpet, you'd probably rather just do the job yourself — but rest assured that that's not an inevitable experience with every robot vacuum. Not if you buy one specifically designed to master carpet.

SEE ALSO: How to choose a robot vacuum in 2024: Consider these 5 features before buying

The best robot vacuums for carpet have powerful suction, of course, aided by brush roll systems specifically designed to attract small debris and pinch large pieces while still managing hair tangling. And if they're good on carpet — the hardest floor type to tackle — these models won't let you down on other floor types, either.

The Mashable team is on a continuous mission to narrow down those options for you. We've hands-on tested dozens of robot vacuums on several pile lengths of carpets, rugs, and bath mats in a variety of home layouts. Here are our favorites for every carpeted situation in 2024.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to unblock Xnxx porn for free

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:58

TL;DR: Bypass geo-restrictions to unblock free porn sites with a high-speed VPN. The best VPN for unblocking and watching Xnxx is ExpressVPN.

There is a time and place for visiting your favorite porn sites. There are a lot of locations around the world that block access to sites like Pornhub and xHamster, and that's probably for the best. However, there is something to be said for retaining your online freedom (when the time is right).

We're not suggesting that you bypass online restrictions to access porn sites in inappropriate moments, but sometimes you'll want to watch your favorite sites in a totally appropriate time and place, but you won't be able to do that because a block is in place. In this situation, you should consider using a VPN.

If you're looking for the best way to unblock sites like Xnxx from anywhere in the world, we have the information you need.

How to unblock Xnxx for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This straightforward process means you can bypass geo-restrictions to access porn sites like Xnxx from anywhere in the world. The process is actually really straightforward.

Unblock Xnxx by following these simple steps:

  1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

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

  4. Visit Xnxx

  5. Watch Xnxx videos from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs are not free, but leading services do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Xnxx without committing with your cash. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can retain access to porn sites when traveling or temporarily away from home.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the top pick for unblocking porn sites like Xnxx, for a number of reasons:

  • Fast servers in 105 countries

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

  • Strict no-logging policy to protect your data

  • Fast streaming speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Unblock Xnxx for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Empty Nesters, Take Time to Process

Havard Management Tip of the Day - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 06:01

It’s common for parents to feel grief and instability when their kids leave the house. If you’re an empty nester (or will be soon), here are some strategies to help you reshape your life and find meaning—both personally and professionally. Take time to rest. It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions as you adjust to […]

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Categories: Management

Get Microsoft Visio at a massive discount — £16 for lifetime access

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 06:00

TL;DR: As of May 13, you can get a Microsoft Visio Professional (2021) lifetime license for Windows on sale for £15.93 (reg. £199.45).

While we all know (and love-hate) the classic suite of Microsoft Office apps — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and their siblings — you're missing out if you’ve never looked beyond the major players. And if you're the type of person who owns their own label maker and loves to make charts that really pop, then we’d like to introduce you to Microsoft Visio. This visualisation software lets you create diagrams and flowcharts more efficiently than the above tools. And as of May 13, you can get a lifetime license for Visio for Windows on sale for £15.93 (reg. £199.45). 

We should note that this Microsoft Visio deal is only available to new customers at this time.

The missing piece in your Microsoft toolkit

Microsoft Visio helps you visualise your ideas, processes, reporting structures, or anything else you want to bring to life. Start with premade templates, starter diagrams, or stencils made for flowcharts, org charts, floor plans, or brainstorming maps. Or, freestyle your own creations from scratch.

Then, browse from more than 250,000 shapes to customise the look and feel of your projects. Visio is a lot more intuitive than trying to create similar charts using Microsoft 365 tools like PowerPoint or Word.

Visio also lets you link diagrams to internal and external data sources, helping you share data with team members, draw additional insights, and stay organised. You can even upload an Excel, Exchange, or Microsoft Entra ID file and have Visio automatically generate an accompanying chart. That’s just one advantage of expanding your Microsoft toolkit.

Another unique feature is being able to use your stylus or finger on touch-enabled devices to draw or annotate your projects. You can start creating with Visio right here, right now with this limited-time offer.

Secure your Microsoft Visio Professional 2021 lifetime license for Windows while it’s on sale for £15.93 (reg. £199.45) — a huge 92% discount — for a limited time. No coupon is needed for this low price, although existing Visio customers aren't eligible for the discounted pricing.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Visio 2021 Professional for Windows £15.93 at the Mashable Shop
£199.45 Save £183.52 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Gujarat Titans vs. Kolkata Knight Riders for free

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 06:00

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

The IPL is in its final few weeks after an incredible season of talent and fierce competition. The next fixture will see the Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders take to the pitch as some of the best cricket players in the world go head-to-head.

If you want to tune in to Gujarat Titans vs. Kolkata Knight Riders for free from anywhere in the world, keep reading.

When is Gujarat Titans vs. Kolkata Knight Riders?

Gujarat Titans vs. Kolkata Knight Riders starts at 3 p.m. BST on May 13. This fixture will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India.

How to watch Gujarat Titans vs. Kolkata Knight Riders for free

For free live streams of every IPL cricket match, head to JioCinema. The streaming service is providing streams in 4K resolution on its app, so cricket fans can tune into all the action.

JioCinema is geo-restricted to India, but you can unblock this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in India, meaning 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 Gujarat Titans vs. Kolkata Knight Riders for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

Most of the best VPNs for streaming aren't free, but they do tend to offer free trials or money-back guarantees. If you use these offers, you can watch IPL live streams without committing any cash. This is clearly not a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch select IPL fixtures for free.

What is the best VPN for JioCinema?

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including India

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Stream the IPL for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Will Lestat return on 'Interview with the Vampire'?

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 04:00

Lestat de Lioncourt has risen! Sort of. 

In the first episode of Season 2, titled "What Can the Damned Really Say to the Damned," Sam Reid reprises his role to torment Lestat's treacherous children. But not exactly as you might expect. He's not flesh and blood — though he is bleeding profusely. In Interview with the Vampire: Part II, as the second season's opening title card calls it, Lestat's return to Louis begins as a delusion. 

How did we get here? For those in need of a refresher: At the end of Season 1 of AMC's audacious adaptation of Interview with the Vampire, Lestat was ambushed by his vampire family, Louis de Pointe du Lac (Jacob Anderson) and Claudia (Bailey Bass), then left for dead in the swampy dumps of New Orleans. When human journalist Daniel Molloy (Eric Bogosian) interviews Louis decades later — with Claudia's diaries in hand — he calls Louis out for knowing damn well that attack wouldn't kill the vampire Lestat.

Could this be true? Will the real Lestat catch up with Louis and Claudia as they search for a coven that might be more cuddly than the Brat Prince? 

Let's dig in. 

How does Lestat return in Interview with the Vampire?  Sam Reid and Jacob Anderson return as Lestat and Louis in "Interview with the Vampire: Part II." Credit: Larry Horricks / AMC

In "What Can the Damned Really Say to the Damned," Lestat resurrects from his shallow grave as a bad dream, a guilty conscience, or a delusion. Pick your poison. 

Guided by old-world legends, Louis and Claudia (now played by Delainey Hayles) have left the luxuries of New Orleans behind for battle-torn squalor in Europe during World War I. There, as Claudia scours for evidence of vampires and searches the pockets of dead soldiers for camping essentials, Lestat returns to Louis — a vision with a slit throat and a smile. 

"Bonjour, mon amour," Lestat says, adding, "Do you miss me? I miss you — despite our recent unpleasantness." What a cool, casual way to refer to your lover plotting to kill you, then fleeing the country! At this point it's been "four years of grim wayfaring," and Louis is mad with grief. Or as he puts it, "You're not here, I'm just fucked in the head." 

Lestat taunts him with playful banter that's cut off by a live bat crawling out of his slit throat and flying into the night. But the maybe-slain sire will not accept apologies. "You ruin it with remorse," Lestat scolds Louis, "You gave me a death of distinction."

Now, even if this Lestat is just Louis' guilty conscience, this line suggests Louis believes Lestat is really dead. But then Lestat declares, "But in answer to your question: Yes. I'm going to fucking kill you."

Louis argues in response that if Lestat were alive, he'd already have tracked them down and murdered them by now. Again, it's been four years. To this Lestat says with a wicked grin, "Oh love, I'm merely waiting until you're happy. So hurry up, mon cher!" 

Next, this vision of Lestat lovingly bites Louis's neck, as Louis grimaces in a pain reflected in the voice-over: "I had taken 7,000 souls by then. But Lestat's was the only one that felt like murder." 

What does it mean that Lestat is back?  Delainey Hayles and Jacob Anderson reach Paris as Claudia and Louis in "Interview with the Vampire: Part II." Credit: Larry Horricks / AMC

Well, for one thing, it means showrunner Rolin Jones knows what his audience wants.

In season 1, Anderson and Reid had a passion so hot it threatened to burn viewers down in their awe and longing. It wasn't just that Jones gave explicit sex scenes between the two where Rice had not. It was also that the chemistry between these actors was explosive, and the toxic romance between Louis and Lestat as chaotic as it was compelling. 

This first chapter back is alive with twisted turns, including revenants, Romanian superstition, and an ancient vampire choosing a fiery exit over a new lease on undead life. But amid the unrelenting muck and grays of this grisly chapter, Jones smartly laid in a bit of tried and true (and entertaining) toxicity, as only Lestat can give it.

While Louis tries to keep these delusions to himself, his regret — and lingering love for Lestat — is a gulf widening between him and Claudia. He asks her when they can go home, and in doing so refuses to see that New Orleans is not home to her; home is what she is seeking as she digs for other vampires. Her diaries reflect her ire, and Louis weeps remembering more clearly who she was — even if that means more sharply understanding how she had come to loathe him. 

In the flashbacks of their time in Romania, Claudia snarls at Louis, "I forgave you for fucking up my plan. I did not forgive you for bringing him with you." Louis argues that sure, he didn't set Lestat on fire as Claudia wanted — but their bad dad is in a landfill a continent away. "In here," she responds, prodding at Louis's chest. "You carry him in here." It's a sin Louis cannot deny, a fate he cannot escape.  

Later, after the two have seen more deaths that hang on them like an anchor, Louis offers a pep talk to Claudia, spurring her to hope. "As long as you walk the earth, I'll never taste the fire," he declares, promising never to leave her. "You understand? We're going to find others like us." Violin music plays in the background, frenzied and hopeful. "If you were the last vampire on earth," he says softly, "it would be enough." 

In the shot, he's looking dead into Claudia's mournful eyes. But then the camera shifts to the right, revealing Lestat, throat still slit, eyes sharp, pouty lips in a slight smile. So, who is Louis really talking to? "Me and you. You and me." He repeats it over and over, perhaps willing himself to believe he means him and Claudia. Perhaps he says this to chase away the memory of Lestat. But as this tormented family arrives in Paris at episode's end, book readers know the real Lestat's return is drawing ever nearer. 

How to watch: Interview with the Vampire: Part II airs Sundays on AMC and AMC+.

Categories: IT General, Technology

'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for May 13

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 03:00

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 May 12'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:

A spice.

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 C.

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 #1059 is...

CUMIN.

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 May 13

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 03:00

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 May 11'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: Stylish products

  • Green: Fun actions

  • Blue: Non-Disney species

  • Purple: Broadway soundalikes

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: FASHION DESIGNER'S OUTPUT

  • Green: PLAYGROUND VERBS

  • Blue: LOONEY TUNES FIGURES

  • Purple: HOMOPHONES OF MUSICALS

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 #336 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Yellow: FASHION DESIGNER'S OUTPUT - BRAND, COLLECTION, LABEL, LINE

  • Green: PLAYGROUND VERBS - DODGE, HIDE, HOP, TAG

  • Blue: LOONEY TUNES FIGURES - BUNNY, DUCK, MARTIAN, PIG

  • Purple: HOMOPHONES OF MUSICALS - GREECE, HARE, KATZ, MAIM

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

An aurora will light up in unusual places as solar storm rages

Mashable - Sun, 05/12/2024 - 22:02

More kaleidoscopic light shows could be visible in the sky across the Northern Hemisphere as a powerful solar storm ramps up. 

An extreme geomagnetic storm that first hit last week is expected to become more intense, according to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, as several coronal mass ejections are due to bombard Earth's outer atmosphere in space later on May 12.

That means many people who haven't witnessed a rare aurora borealis may still have a chance to see it. People throughout the United States, United Kingdom, and other locations worldwide reported sightings Saturday of the Northern Lights, usually only visible at night near the North Pole. However, a similar effect happens near Antarctica, too. 

The sun had a strong solar flare — a gigantic burst of energy — at 12:26 p.m. ET Sunday. This flare was classified as an X-1.0, among the most intense flares observed. Experts warned the incident could create temporary problems or lost signals for users of high-frequency radio communication.

"Solar flares send tons of energy whizzing through space at the speed of light," according to NASA. "Sometimes flares come with huge solar eruptions. These eruptions are called coronal mass ejections."

SEE ALSO: A spacecraft ‘touched’ the sun. Here’s how it survived. Tweet may have been deleted

An aurora's display of colors is the result of electrons shot out of the sun during solar storms. As the charged particles reach Earth, they travel along the planet's invisible magnetic field lines into the atmosphere, interacting with the air. When those particles strike gasses, they heat up and glow, according to NASA.

The colors differ depending on the type of atmospheric gas and its altitude. Oxygen glows red or blue, while nitrogen can create green, blue, or pink. The recent strong solar storm conditions are causing the aurora around the north pole to be much more widespread, allowing people who live farther south to see them. 

Tweet may have been deleted

Similar to storm seasons on Earth, the sun experiences a weather pattern that repeats every 11 years. At the beginning and end of the cycle, that activity is at its calmest. But solar activity increases, climaxing in the middle of the cycle and causing the sun to roil with giant eruptions.

Right now that cycle is about to peak, close to reaching its maximum point in mid-2025. That's why reports of solar flares and coronal mass ejections — plasma spewed from the sun's outer atmosphere, called the corona — are more abundant in the news.

Coronal mass ejections like the ones approaching Earth, or CMEs, are referred to as "space weather." Though the sun is about 93 million miles away, space weather can affect Earth and other parts of the solar system. 

Tweet may have been deleted

Scientists have a limited ability to forecast space weather. Here, the atmosphere and magnetic field shield people against the most harmful health impacts of solar radiation. However, these events can have catastrophic consequences on technology, disrupting power grids, telecommunications, and GPS systems.

Though these incidents don’t happen often, a solar flare in March 1989, for example, caused all of Quebec, Canada, to experience a 12-hour power outage. It also jammed radio signals for Radio Free Europe.

Tweet may have been deleted

Prior to Sunday's flare, the sun ejected two other strong solar flares just before 9:30 p.m. ET Friday and 8 a.m. ET Saturday, according to NASA. The U.S. space agency's Solar Dynamics Observatory, which watches the sun constantly, has snapped pictures of these events as well. The previous two flares were classified as X-5.8 and X-1.5, respectively. 

NOAA, which is continuing to monitor the storm for the U.S. government, said these flares seem to be linked to a sunspot estimated to be perhaps 15 times wider than Earth.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT's The Mini crossword answers for May 12

Mashable - Sun, 05/12/2024 - 15:01

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 May 12 SEE ALSO: 'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for May 12

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Sunday, May 12, 2024:

AcrossSomething written on the underside of a Snapple cap
  • The answer is Fact.

Crossbreed of two zoo cats
  • The answer is Liger.

Very absurd
  • The answer is Inane.

Nonglossy finish, as for a photo
  • The answer is Matte.

"Oh, ___ your heart!"
  • The answer is Bless.

DownEnd-of-semester exam
  • The answer is Final.

Banded rock
  • The answer is Agate.

"That's just my two ___"
  • The answer is Cents.

The Lorax speaks for them, so he says
  • The answer is Trees.

An arm or a leg
  • The answer is Limb.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Generate text, images, code, audio, and more with this $68 AI toolset

Mashable - Sun, 05/12/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: Through May 12, you can get a $68 lifetime subscription to Scribbyo and use AI to generate creative content

Content creation isn't just one skill. Whether you're in marketing or just accidentally ended up with a really popular Instagram account, a ton of different skills go into creating quality content. You might need to write one day, find a fun picture the next, and record a podcast the week after. It's a lot for one person (or maybe even a team of people) to handle. But it's not too much for AI. 

Scribbyo is a content creation platform that uses AI tools to help save you time. Whether you're crafting an essay, an ad, a social media post, a landing page, or content of almost any kind, Scribbyo may be able to help. This versatile AI tool lets you generate content in a variety of media, including text, voice-over, images, code, and more, and you can produce content in 37 different languages.

Plus, a lifetime subscription to Scribbyo is only $67.99 for a limited time. 

Use AI to create content

AI doesn't always have to do something you can't. You may be able to listen to a video and transcribe it, but you could save time using the Scribbyo transcribe tool. That means you can easily turn videos into scripts, lectures into lecture notes, and create subtitles on the fly, but this AI doesn't just listen. You can even use Scibbyo to generate voice-over. 

Scribbyo doesn't just use one voice to read your text. You get access to 100+ accents and languages and more than 900 types of voices. Whether you're making a podcast, narrating a presentation, or recording a voiceover for a video, you can take your time finding just the right voice.

This subscription lasts for life, but there are limits on how much you can generate every month. Per month, you can generate 100,000 words (both in content writing and chatbots), 60 AI images, and 60,000 characters of voice-over. 

Your own creative team — all in one AI tool

Use AI to help you get creative and save time.

You won't find a lower price on a lifetime subscription to Scribbyo, on sale for $67.99. 

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Opens in a new window Credit: Scribbyo Scribbyo: Lifetime Subscription $67.99 at the Mashable Shop
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Categories: IT General, Technology

Get a Kodak scanner for 20% off and digitize your old film and slides

Mashable - Sun, 05/12/2024 - 11:00

SAVE $45: Through May 12, you can get the Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner on sale for $179.99, down from the regular price of $224.99. That's 20% off. Plus, get free shipping by entering KODAK at checkout.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kodak Kodak Slide N Scan Film & Slide Scanner $179.99 at the Mashable Shop
$224.99 Save $45.00 Get Deal

Feeling nostalgic? You're not alone. With the proliferation of digital cameras, many of us packed away our old photo albums and negatives, leaving a treasure trove of Throwback Thursday posts unshared. If you're regretting tossing those old snapshots — yes, even the ones with those awful bangs — the Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner can do a bang-up job of bringing those snaps back to life. And it's on sale today.

Through May 12, you can get the Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner on sale for $179.99, down from the regular price of $224.99. That's a discount of $45, or 20% off. Plus, get free shipping by entering KODAK at checkout.

Take a trip down memory lane and digitize old photos with this easy-to-use Kodak film scanner. It saves you the trouble of hunting down a specialty shop that handles old films and brings the film store to you.

This nifty device is designed to help you preserve nearly forgotten memories. It has a 14-megapixel image sensor that boosts image quality from 14 to 22 megapixels, resulting in more vivid, detailed photos. Simply insert the film into its quick-feeding tray and it will get to work right away. It can accommodate color and black-and-white negatives (135, 110, 126) and 50mm slides (135, 110, 126).

Thanks to the integrated controls, you'll have no problem adjusting color, rotating images, and making tweaks. And if you're in the mood for a reminiscing sesh, the 5-inch liquid-crystal display screen can deliver a personal slideshow. Otherwise, you can connect it to a TV, PC, or MAC for a better, more immersive viewing experience.

Turn back time with the Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner for only $179.99 (reg. $224). Enter the code KODAK at checkout to enjoy free shipping, too.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Score a refurbished iPad Air for less than $160

Mashable - Sun, 05/12/2024 - 11:00

SAVE $339.01: Through May 12, the refurbished 9.7-inch iPad Air (WiFi) with case and charger is on sale for $155.99, down from the list price of $499. That's a discount of 68%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 9.7-inch Apple iPad Air (refurbished, WiFi) $159.99 at the Mashable Shop
$499.00 Save $339.01 Case and charger included. Get Deal

Life is chaotic, and lugging around a computer with all of its accessories can be overwhelming. This refurbished 2013 iPad Air is perfect for anyone who’s always on the move and needs a lightweight, budget tablet to toss in their bag instead. There's a great deal on this capable iPad Air today that includes everything you need to use your tablet on the go.

Through May 12, the refurbished 9.7-inch iPad Air (WiFi) with black case and charger is on sale for $155.99, $339.01 down from the list price of $499. That's a discount of 68%.

The beautiful 9.7-inch Retina display makes viewing content more pleasurable in 2048 x 1536 resolution. Watch your favorite movies, navigate apps, and store important data. You’ll especially love the high-quality 5MP rear camera and 1.2MP front camera for FaceTiming friends and family.

The Apple A7 chip operates at a 1.4GHz speed and offers a more productive user experience. The lightning-fast processor will help you accomplish more in a fraction of the time. With 16GB of storage, this iPad has plenty of space for all of your media, files, and photos.

Enjoy up to 10 hours of battery life and go about your day worry-free. Jump on the WiFi via a wireless network or hotspot and stay connected anywhere you go. Whether you’re working remotely or taking an international flight, this refurbished iPad Air is great for both productivity and entertainment.

Refurbished items with a "B" grade may have light scratches, dents, or scuffing on the bevel or case. Without sacrificing quality, you’ll get a gently used product at a fraction of the cost of a brand-new one, not to mention the benefit to the environment by preventing e-waste.

For a limited time, get the refurbished 2013 Apple iPad Air at 68% off for only $155.99 (reg. $499).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Go green with an electric bike for $1,600 off

Mashable - Sun, 05/12/2024 - 11:00

SAVE $1,600.02: Through May 12, get a BirdBike electric bike on sale for $699.97, down from the regular price of $2,299.99, with free shipping. That's 69% off.

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$2,299.99 Save $1,600.02 Get Deal

Now that the temps have warmed up (mostly), it's time to put down the devices and head outdoors. While there are many ways to enjoy being outside, riding an electric bike can be a new, exciting adventure to enjoy on the weekends or for an everyday commute. Through May 12, you can get a BirdBike e-bike on super sale and change up your routine around town.

Through May 12, you can get a BirdBike electric bike on sale for $699.97, down from the regular price of $2,299, with free shipping. That's a major discount of $1,600.02, or 69% off.

This electric bike is brought to you by the same company that launched e-scooters several years ago. Now, you can go further and explore more with the help of this e-bik's powerful 500W motor. Use the pedals like a regular bike and get an instant boost via the handlebar's throttle whenever you need it, like when climbing hills or when your legs need a break.

It has a commercial-grade aluminum alloy frame and a durable carbon drive train designed to keep your ride smooth and safe even on rougher roads. To keep things user-friendly, there's an LED display embedded on the dash, so all you need to do is glance down to get your stats including speed, distance, mode, and battery status.

The BirdBike weighs 51 pounds (it's a sturdy city ride) and has a maximum weight capacity of 256 pounds. This e-bike has a 50-mile range and can reach speeds up to 20 miles per hour, which is ideal for commuting to work. And if you're worried about someone snagging your sweet ride while you have it parked, there's a built-in anti-theft alarm that rings out 120 decibels of sound.

Whether you're a daily commuter, weekend adventurer, or simply someone who loves the freedom of two wheels, this could be a fun companion for your next journey.

Pick up this BirdBike Electric Bike on sale for $699.97 (reg. $2,299.99) with free shipping until May 12 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save $35 on a wireless charging pad that powers 3 devices at once

Mashable - Sun, 05/12/2024 - 11:00

TL;DR: Through May 12, save 50% on this wireless charging pad that can refuel a smartphone, a watch, and headphones, all at once.

It seems like every new gadget you buy these days is missing something pretty crucial: the charger. Gone are the days of the complimentary charging block, and it's only a matter of time before the humble charging cable becomes a relic of the past, too. That's why this is the ideal time to try charging pads — your desk will thank you for the instant declutter.

The 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Pad can finally let you kick the rat's nest of wires on your desk into the trash. As you can tell by the name, it's designed to charge three devices at once, and through the end of the day, it's on sale for almost $35 off at $34.99 (reg. $69.99). However, if you want to charge your devices all at once, you will need to use a PD18W wall adapter (not included).

With three separate charging modules, this pad can accommodate smartphones, headphones, watches, and other devices compatible with wireless charging. Want to top up three phones at once? No problem. A watch and two headphones? Easy. The combination doesn't matter; it handles them all efficiently and simultaneously.

While there's a maximum power of 15W for cell phone charging, 5W for AirPods charging, and 2.5W for Apple Watch charging, it can still refuel your devices fairly quickly. The charging plates are also designed to secure the devices firmly, and when you're not charging, you can fold and configure them to function as a phone stand.

On the safety front, it packs a multifunctional SmartShunt technology with a built-in smart chip, along with features like short-circuit protection, foreign-object detection, and temperature control. It's also quite portable, allowing you to take it from point A to point B with ease. It barely takes up any space, so you can easily put it into your pocket or bag.

Untangle your harware with this 3-in-1 wireless charger, on sale for $34.99 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Pad $34.99 at the Mashable Shop
$69.99 Save $35.00 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Delhi Capitals online for free

Mashable - Sun, 05/12/2024 - 11:00

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

The IPL is in its final two weeks, and it has been an incredible season. There's just a handful of fixtures left to play, and next to the field are the Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals. The lineup should include captains Faf du Plessis and Rishabh Pant.

Want to catch up on the action? You can watch Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Delhi Capitals for free from anywhere in the world, and we have all the information you need.

When is Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Delhi Capitals?

Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Delhi Capitals starts at 3 p.m. BST on May 12. This fixture will be played at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, India.

How to watch Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Delhi Capitals for free

JioCinema is your go-to for free live streams of every IPL cricket match this season.

JioCinema is geo-restricted to India, but anyone can unblock this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in India, meaning 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 Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Delhi Capitals for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

You'll find that the majority of the best VPNs for streaming aren't free, but they do often promote free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these deals, you can catch up on IPL live streams without parting with any of your cash. This is clearly not a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch select IPL fixtures for free.

What is the best VPN for JioCinema?

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including India

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Stream the IPL for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The 10 best dating apps for singles over 40

Mashable - Sun, 05/12/2024 - 11:00

Deciding to get back into the dating game can be nerve-wracking, regardless of age. But the stakes may feel a little higher if you're in your 40s (or older).

You may assume that people in your age bracket either aren't interested in dating or are already settled into long-term relationships. However, according to a recent Pew Research Center analysis of Census Bureau data, as of 2021, nearly 25 percent of 40-somethings in the U.S. have never been married. Additionally, only 22 percent of unmarried adults ages 40 to 44 were cohabiting couples.

So, have people in their 40s given up on finding love? Not at all. But unlike people in their 20s and 30s, they know what they want and aren't afraid to wait a little longer to find the right person. In fact, according to the analysis, approximately one in four 40-year-olds who weren't married in 2001 had tied the knot by age 60. So, if this trend continues, there's still hope for finding a long-term partner, even if you're starting later in life.

How to start dating again at 40

Now, after that speech and spew of statistics, you're probably wondering what our grand plan is to get you back on your feet and out on the dance floor. The answer? Online dating. Before you scoff, hear us out.

Online dating is a great way to meet new people in a low-pressure environment. It gives you a quick and easy way to connect with potential partners, filter through profiles, and find matches who share your interests and values. Imagine if you could do that when scanning the room at a bar or attending social events — it would save you a lot of time and effort.

But before you start swiping left and right, check in with yourself. Be honest about what you're looking for in a partner and what you bring to the table, including any emotional baggage you might carry (which we all have to some extent).

Once you've touched base with your emotions, you should do the same with your dating profile. Are you interested in a serious relationship, a casual encounter, or a friendship that could evolve into something more? Whatever it is, be upfront. You don't want to fall for someone only to realize they aren't looking for the same thing.

My mom’s 60-something friend was set up with a 67-year-old guy who is “not looking for anything serious” in case you think that ever ends

— Sara K. Runnels (@omgskr) January 8, 2023 What are the best dating apps for over 40 singles?

The best dating app depends on what you're looking for. But because we're data nerds, we've done a little research (and hands-on testing) to give you some options.

Match and eharmony have a large over-40 user base and comprehensive profiles and algorithms that match you with compatible partners based on your preferences and personality traits. Additionally, Elite Singles is a popular dating site for mature professionals looking for a serious relationship.

Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble are more popular among younger users, but it's not impossible to find success on these apps if you're over 40. OkCupid has a slightly higher number of older singles than Bumble and Hinge, and it caters to the liberal and LGBTQ+ communities, offering a space to be your most authentic self sans judgment.

Keep reading for a more in-depth look at each of these dating apps and what they have to offer for daters over 40. We considered affordability, accessibility (including user-friendly interfaces and availability on Google Play and the App Store), and overall success rate in helping users find meaningful connections.

Pro tip: Based on our in-depth reviews, we recommend steering clear of Zoosk and Our Time for singles over 40. (Full details on our testing methodology are in the "How We Tested" section.)

Categories: IT General, Technology

From Grindr to Scruff: The best dating apps for gay, bi, and queer men

Mashable - Sun, 05/12/2024 - 11:00

Most people have at least one horror story about online dating. It's a rite of passage — one that single people love to hate.

But the horror stories look a little different for members of the LGBTQ+ community. For gay men, online dating throws a unique set of challenges into the mix. On top of the usual woes, such as ghosting and catfishing, you might encounter unnecessary questioning about your past, straight guys who shouldn't be in your feed, and even some not-so-subtle fetishization. Not exactly the butterflies-in-your-stomach feeling we're all after, right?

Despite the BS, the best gay dating apps have helped millions of men make meaningful connections (and find saucy hookups too).

SEE ALSO: Archer is the new 'social-first' dating app for queer men

According to the Pew Research Center, about one-quarter of LGBTQ+ adults say they met their match through online dating. The problem? Not all dating apps are created equal, especially for the LGBTQ+ community.

What is the best gay dating app?

While Grindr is a big name, there are other options that cater to the specific needs and preferences of gay men.

"Grindr is a tried and true app that many queer men gravitate toward to find partners or for relationships that require lesser commitment, so it’s easy to point to it as the #1 app," Michelle Herzog, LMFT, AASECT-certified sex therapist, tells Mashable. "However, like Tinder, it’s gained a reputation as a hookup app – but that doesn’t mean there still aren’t men looking for long-term commitments, either."

Sometimes going for a popular dating app can be your best bet since that's where queer users tend to mingle in the biggest numbers. Keeping Tinder on the back burner isn't just a straight people thing (especially for those of us who live in less-populated areas where Grindr and Scruff offer slim pickings). You can also try niche dating sites if you tend to like a certain type of man, but in general, the more popular apps offer the greatest chance of success.

Plus, some mainstream apps deserve credit for trying to create a more inclusive atmosphere. OkCupid gets kudos for embracing change and making social justice a core part of its compatibility scoring.

Whether you're looking for something serious, a hookup, something that stays strictly online, or an altogether different definition of connection, there's an ideal queer dating app out there for you. Here's a breakdown of the best dating apps for gay men to help you find your perfect match.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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