Blogroll

Declining a Promotion with Grace

Havard Management Tip of the Day - Thu, 05/09/2024 - 06:01

When offered a promotion, you might feel pressured to automatically accept. But what if it doesn’t feel like the right fit for you? Saying no can be daunting, but doing so gracefully is key to maintaining good relationships and advancing your career on your own terms. First, understand why you’re hesitant. Is it a bad […]

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Categories: Management

Enjoy a lifetime of Curiosity Stream documentary streaming for only £144.03

Mashable - Thu, 05/09/2024 - 06:00

TL;DR: Through May 12, you can sign up for lifetime access to Curiosity Stream documentaries for £144.03.

Instead of spending the new year scrolling through the same old collection of documentaries on Netflix and Hulu, it might be time to try a platform that actually specialises in educational content. Curiosity Stream is home to a huge selection of high-quality documentaries and docu-series on a wide variety of topics, from nature and space exploration to the royal family. Now, a lifetime subscription to Curiosity Stream is only £144.03 through May 12.

Watch documentaries for life

If you love documentaries, you don’t have to settle for the precious few modern ones on Netflix, the telly, or other streaming services. So, if you want to watch more documentaries, then it might be time to check out Curiosity Stream.

Fascinated by true crime? Craving a deep dive into the deep ocean? Or do you want to take a look at some of the most interesting stories from history? Curiosity Stream has an enormous catalog of educational content, and it's even won an Emmy for its documentary featuring Stephen Hawking.

Plus, the user interface is easy to navigate with tools to filter content by topic or collection, or you can even search for your favorite narrator. They have some well-known names like Sir David Attenborough and celebrity narrators like Morgan Freeman. 

New content is being added all the time, so a lifetime subscription doesn't mean a lifetime of watching the same old stuff. It means you'll always have access to a growing library of fascinating shows and movies on multiple devices on or offline

Save on a lifetime subscription

Don't miss your chance to get lifetime access to incredible educational content you or your family can enjoy. 

May 12 at 11:59 p.m. PT is the deadline to get a lifetime subscription to Curiosity Stream for £144.03.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Curiosity Stream Curiosity Stream Standard Plan: Lifetime Subscription £144.03
£320.12 Save £176.09 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Bayer Leverkusen vs. AS Roma online for free

Mashable - Thu, 05/09/2024 - 06:00

TL;DR: Watch Bayer Leverkusen vs. AS Roma in the Europa League for free on ServusTV. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Whether or not Bayer Leverkusen make it to the final of the Europa League, Xabi Alonso's side have enjoyed a truly special season. They are already Bundesliga champions, DFB Pokal finalists, and Europa League semi finalists, which isn't exactly bad. But they will want more, and that starts with the second leg of their Europa League semi-final fixture against AS Roma.

If you want to watch Bayer Leverkusen vs. AS Roma for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Bayer Leverkusen vs. AS Roma?

Bayer Leverkusen and AS Roma will start their second-leg match at 3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. BST on May 9. This fixture takes place at the BayArena in Leverkusen, Germany.

How to watch Bayer Leverkusen vs. AS Roma for free

Bayer Leverkusen vs. AS Roma is available to live stream for free on ServusTV.

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

Unblock ServusTV 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 Austria

  4. Visit ServusTV

  5. Stream Bayer Leverkusen vs. AS Roma in the Europa League for free

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 for streaming are not free, but they do tend to provide free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to ServusTV without committing with your cash. This is not a long-term solution, but it does give you plenty of time to stream Bayer Leverkusen vs. AS Roma before recovering your investment.

This is a sneaky trick, but it works because services like ExpressVPN send your money back without hassle.

What is the best VPN for ServusTV?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking ServusTV to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Austria

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • 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.

Live stream Bayer Leverkusen vs. AS Roma for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for May 9

Mashable - Thu, 05/09/2024 - 04:00

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 9'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:

Dehydrated meat.

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 J.

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 #1055 is...

JERKY.

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 9

Mashable - Thu, 05/09/2024 - 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 9'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: Lid closing mechanisms

  • Green: Length of time

  • Blue: Keep in check

  • Purple: Strange mammal

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: Container Closures

  • Green: Duration

  • Blue: Regulate

  • Purple: Trademarks of a Platypus

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 #333 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • SHADES OF RED: CAP, CORK, LID, TAB

  • LITTLE BIT OF A BEVERAGE: PERIOD, SPELL, STRETCH, TIME

  • CHOICEST: CHECK, CONTAIN, CURB, LIMIT

  • BATH: BILL, EGG, FUR, VENOM

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

Bluesky will soon add DMs and videos

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 23:00

Decentralized social media platform Bluesky has already racked up some big accomplishments. It's a rare example of a Twitter / X-competitor that has found success. Most other competitors, aside from the Meta-backed Threads, have since-closed up shop. In addition, Bluesky was able to rack up more than 3 million sign-ups during a period where users could only join the platform via invite. Since opening up to all, Bluesky has amassed more than 5.6 million users.

And, Bluesky has been able to do all of this without two major features found on most big social media platforms: direct messages (DMs) and video uploads. But, that won't be the case for long.

SEE ALSO: You came back to Threads. Here's how it can keep you.

In a post published on Tuesday, the Bluesky team shared its upcoming plans for the platform and those plans include DMs and video.

DMs, video, and more are on the way

According to Bluesky, the team is planning to add a slew of new features in the coming months.

DMs, or private messages, appear first on Bluesky's list of things-to-do. As Bluesky points out, all posts on the platform have been public so far. That will change soon as the team works on "a DM service that will integrate into the Bluesky app." Bluesky says the first version of the DM feature will allow users to restrict who they can receive messages from. Users will be able to allow DMs only from users that they follow, disable DMs entirely, or have open DMs, meaning anyone can private message them on the platform.

Probably the most notable feature gap on Bluesky is the lack of video uploads. That will soon change too. Bluesky says upon release, this feature will allow users to upload video clips up to 90 seconds long.

While those are the biggest on Bluesky's list, there are other features on the way too. Bluesky says it's working on its own OAuth or "Log in with" feature. Once that's in place, third-party websites and platforms will be able to give users the option to sign-up using their Bluesky accounts.

In addition, Bluesky is looking to further build out features that are unique to its platform too. Bluesky has one of the more robust anti-harassment features and it's looking to improve those moderation tools.

Another unique Bluesky feature, Custom Feeds, which allows users to completely customize their timeline, will be getting a bunch of new updates. Bluesky says there will be the ability to submit particular posts to feeds and curate submissions, requests to the algorithm to "show more" or "show less" of a particular type of content, and the ability to "drive superfeeds" that will show what's happening in your following feeds' communities.

In all, it appears like there are a lot of new things coming to Bluesky. During a week where Twitter founder Jack Dorsey left its board of directors, these new features will surely be welcome additions among the Bluesky community.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Microsoft launched a new ‘air-gapped’ AI model — but none of you can use it

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 22:24

Microsoft has created a generative AI model for top-secret work within US intelligence agencies.

This model is supported in an "air-gapped" environment, Microsoft's CTO of Strategic Missions and Technology William Chappell told Bloomberg. In other words, it's entirely unconnected, distinct from cloud-based AI models that are susceptible to hacks and data leaks.

SEE ALSO: Microsoft to law enforcement: No using Azure OpenAI for facial recognition What makes Microsoft's new AI model a coveted spy gadget

For intelligence agencies, Microsoft's model is a way to process and analyze vast quantities of classified information without compromising secrecy. Last fall, Bloomberg reported that the CIA was building its own internal ChatGPT-style tool to sift through public data for clues. In April, Sheetal Patel, assistant director of the CIA for the Transnational and Technology Mission Center, said intelligence agencies all over the world are racing to be the first to harness generative AI, saying "I want it to be us."

The model, built upon OpenAI's GPT-4 large language model, underwent an 18-month development process, according to Chappell. The project required overhauling a supercomputer in Iowa and is on a special network that's only accessible by the US government. While the model is technically cloud-based, it's a static cloud that's isolated from the internet, so it can't learn from data and files shared by users or information gleaned from the web.

Chappell said the model is now live and undergoing testing by the various US intelligence communities.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The new iPad ad essentially flips AI-weary creatives the bird

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 21:49

Is it true that all press is good press, or is Apple's latest iPad ad — involving a different kind of press — a poorly timed misstep that could actually cost Apple the business of AI-weary creatives? 

Because right now, creatives are expressing their distaste at the sight of their tools being cheerfully destroyed en masse in a hydraulic press to make way for a shiny new tablet. It may just be the exact wrong message at the exact wrong time.

Tweet may have been deleted

It's nothing new that some ads are irksome, and we all know that a hated ad isn't necessarily an ineffective one. When I was 12, there were these burger ads featuring people noisily mushing burgers into their hideous, up-close mouths, and sucking on their fingers like animals. The whole thing made me want to claw my eyes out. (They actually made a lot of people feel this way, I later learned.) But as my dad explained to me at the time, "The point is, they got your attention." 

I heard the underlying message loud and clear: Companies don't have to pretend they respect their customers; they just have to get them to part with their money. 

It's entirely possible that Apple will get customers to do just that. Yesterday, my colleague Chris Taylor pointed out that the top-of-the-line new iPad with all the peripherals adds up to a $3,000 package of gadgets, and that — sticker shock or no — it's tempting to fork it over for something this cool. But he also noted something that's key to that value proposition for him: The new iPad taps into his fantasies of personal creativity. "Apple knows our income is always a little more disposable if it can appeal to our wannabe genius," he wrote. 

With that in mind, I urge you to watch the "Crush" ad one more time, and really contemplate what it's showing you:  

All that stuff — the paint, the piano, the trumpet, the arcade machine, the illustrator's table — do you feel any hostility toward it? Do you want to see it destroyed and symbolically turned into an Apple device? Does it give you any satisfaction to see record players annihilated, and cameras all squished, and crumbly, and exploding?

And to switch things around a bit, take a look at your nearest Apple device and think about the last time you fantasized about that thing getting crushed. Was it yesterday? Maybe it was five minutes ago. In any case, you probably like it less than you like, say, your guitar.

Almost exactly 40 years ago, Apple released its most famous ad, "1984," in which a monochrome society of shambling drones is under the spell of some kind of computerized dictator. The prisoners of this terrible society are then liberated from their monotony by a hammer-throwing savior representing the Macintosh computer, and a glorious, colorful future is unleashed. 

Fast forward 40 years, and Apple is the most valuable company in the world, releasing a commercial in which symbols of creativity, color, joy, human passion, and playfulness are piled into the center of a grey concrete void, and crushed by an industrial machine until they become a little Apple-branded rectangle. 

The message is not playing well.

Tweet may have been deleted

And the timing couldn't be worse. Apple is, at long last, pleasing Wall Street by pivoting to AI — even going so far as to ramp up development of a new AI cloud infrastructure project made of its own proprietary chips. As Apple CEO Tim Cook said on an earnings call last week, Apple "believe[s] in the transformative power and promise of AI, and we believe we have advantages that will differentiate us in this new era." 

To that end, yesterday's iPad event contained more usage of the term "AI" than any Apple product presentation in recent memory. AI enhancements are suddenly being injected into Apple creative tools like Photomator, with its ML Enhance tool, and a new Isolate Subjects option in Final Cut Pro. 

No two ways about it: Apple is now an AI company. And with this ad, Apple seems to be blaring that message from a loudspeaker, perhaps a little more loudly than it even intended. Members of the public seeing "Crush" seem to be slowly coming to terms with that eerie new reality. 

Tweet may have been deleted

The same year Apple released its "1984" ad, a little movie called The Terminator debuted, and the folks at Apple may want to take another look at it — or at least (spoiler alert) its final moments. At its core, The Terminator is a love story about the essential qualities of humanity prevailing over artificial intelligence. Was it the concept of love that James Cameron put in a hydraulic press at the finale? Was it creativity? Joy? Passion? No. The movie spoke to humanity's id, because the cathartic ending of The Terminator is the moment when the hideous artificially intelligent machine got crushed.

That's the act of creative destruction people will always want to see, and if you're a technology company right now, it's probably a good idea to keep that in mind.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Tackle your pet hair problem with these Amazon Pet Day vacuum deals

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 21:08

SAVE UP TO $400: Shop big discounts on robot vacuums, upright vacuums, and handheld grooming vacuums during Amazon Pet Day, which ends at midnight on May 8.

Our top picks: BEST ROBOT VACUUM DEAL Roborock S8+ $759.99 at Amazon (save $240 with on-page coupon) Get Deal BEST UPRIGHT VACUUM DEAL Shark LA702 Rotator Pet Lift-Away ADV upright vacuum $299.99 at Amazon (save $80) Get Deal BEST HANDHELD VACUUM eufy HomeVac H30 Mate $89.99 at Amazon (save $90) Get Deal

Pet parents, it's your time to shine. Amazon is celebrating National Pet Month with its annual Amazon Pet Day event. The 48-hour sale, which ends at 11:59 p.m. on May 8, offers deals on a variety of pet-related products, including vacuums specifically designed to tackle your pet hair problem.

If the pet hair in your home is overflowing, Pet Day is the perfect time to snag a sweet deal on a robot vacuum, upright vacuum, or handheld grooming vacuum. Just be sure to add them to your cart ASAP, as most of the deals will disappear at midnight.

Best robot vacuum for pets deal Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Our pick: Roborock S8+ $759.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $240.00 with on-page coupon Get Deal Why we like it

If you have pets and combination flooring in your house, we cannot recommend the Roborock S8+ enough. Mashable contributor Timothy Beck Werth specifically noted in his review that "this vacuum justifies its cost by making it so much easier to clean up after your pets." It features an extra-large dustbin that can hold pet hair, dust, and debris for 60 days or more, a vibrating mop pad that actually scrubs floors, a very accurate map, obstacle recognition, and a pain-free app experience. Usually $999.99, you can save $240 with an on-page coupon at Amazon for Pet Day and get it for only $759.99. That's the biggest price drop on record.

Read our full review of the Roborock S8+.

More robot vacuum dealsBest upright vacuum for pets deal Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Our pick: Shark LA702 Rotator Pet Lift-Away ADV upright vacuum $299.99 at Amazon
$379.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Built to grip and capture stubborn hair on carpets and floors, the Shark LA702 Rotator Pet Life-Away is a solid addition to a pet parent's home cleaning lineup. Its two-brushroll system really digs into carpets, while the self-cleaning brushroll ensures no hair will get tangled up while you roll it across your floors. Meanwhile, the odor neutralizer technology guards against bad odors to freshen up your carpets and home. Regularly $379.99, you can snag it on sale for only $299.99 for Amazon Pet Day — that's 21% in savings and matches its all-time low price.

More upright and stick vacuum dealsBest pet grooming vacuum deal Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Our pick: eufy HomeVac H30 Mate $89.99 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $90.00 Get Deal Why we like it

If you'd rather tackle pet hair directly from the source — and have an easy way to suck up pet hair from furniture, stairs, and your vehicle — the eufy HomeVac H30 Mate is a solid handheld vacuum that'll get the job done. It only weighs 1.78 pounds, yet offers powerful suction at 80 AW. Its washable filter also makes it easy to clean up after your furry friends without having to constantly replace the filter. It's usually $179.99, but for Pet Day, you can snag it on sale for only $89.99 — that's 50% in savings and its lowest price on record.

More pet grooming vacuum deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

'The Office' spinoff: Everything you need to know

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 21:06

The Office fans, rejoice! Peacock has picked up a new comedy series set in the same world as the beloved sitcom.

The as-yet untitled spinoff comes to us courtesy of Greg Daniels, who led the American adaptation of The Office, and Michael Koman (Nathan for You, Girls5eva, How to with John Wilson). While the series does not have a release date yet, Peacock has already announced some key cast members and the new show's plotline.

Here's everything you need to know about The Office spinoff.

SEE ALSO: All 185 episodes of 'The Office,' ranked What is The Office spinoff about?

Even though this new show is set in the same universe as The Office, it doesn't look like we're going back to Scranton, Pennsylvania, or following old Dunder Mifflin employees. Instead, we'll be tagging along with The Office's pivotal (yet unseen) documentary crew on their next project. In a press release issued by Peacock, the series logline reads:

The documentary crew that immortalized Dunder Mifflin’s Scranton branch is in search of a new subject when they discover a dying historic Midwestern newspaper and the publisher trying to revive it with volunteer reporters.

SEE ALSO: 'The Office' reboot is a good idea — if Michael, Jim, Dwight, and Pam aren't in it Who is in The Office spinoff?

Only two cast members have been announced for The Office spinoff so far, but they're sure to be familiar faces to many viewers. First up is Domhnall Gleeson, who's starred in films like About Time, Ex Machina, and the Star Wars sequel trilogy. Joining him is Sabrina Impacciatore, whose hilarious performance as hotel manager Valentina in The White Lotus Season 2 earned her an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama.

The pair will lead an ensemble cast, with new cast members yet to be announced.

When does The Office spinoff come out?

There is no official airdate for The Office spinoff yet, but Peacock confirmed in its press release that the series will go into production in July. Stay tuned for more news on The Office spinoff!

Categories: IT General, Technology

'Good One' trailer teases a family camping trip taking a dark turn

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 19:00
The trailer for "Good One", India Donaldson’s debut feature about a 17-year-old hiking with her dad and his friend, has dropped.
Categories: IT General, Technology

Leave cleaning up after the cats to self-scooping litter boxes on sale for up to $300 off

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 18:55

Cleaning out the cat's litter box is a job no pet owner relishes. Leave it to the robots with deals on self-scooping litter boxes during Amazon Pet Day:

Best self-scooping litter box deals Best Overall Deal Petkit Self-Cleaning Litter Box $418.99 at Amazon (Save $180.01) Get Deal Best Litter Box for Multiple Cats Meowant Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box $399.89 at Amazon (Save $300.10) Get Deal Best Budget Litter Box Deal PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Smart Self-Cleaning Litter Box $184.95 at Amazon (Save $45) Get Deal

Everyone loves cats, but no one wants to clean the litter box. If you're tired of all the scooping up clumps, there's a way to automate things with a self-scooping litter box. It collects your cat's waste and empties it into a sanitary compartment so you never have to get near it (other than when you dump it out). And you can get your own today as part of Amazon Pet Day's ongoing sales.

Until midnight on May 8, you can save up to 40% off multiple self-scooping litter boxes starting at just $184.95. If you're ready for a change, it's time to shop.

Check out our picks for the best litter boxes on offer below.

Best overall deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: Petkit Self-Cleaning Litter Box $418.99 at Amazon
$599.00 Save $180.01 Get Deal Why we like it

The Petkit Self-Cleaning Litter Box is a luxurious option for any cat owner that comes with plenty of features to keep your cat comfortable and clean. It has an infrared sensor, remote alerts, and an accident protection system to make things easy for you, too. It has three cleaning modes that can be controlled via app, and it even comes with a special air purifier spray that can help keep the air nice and fresh, even when your cat has just done its business. All waste is sealed into a special bin that traps odors, and while the litter box automatically deodorizes after each use, you can also set up a special schedule on the app for when you'd like it to happen, too. This self-scooping litter box has everything you need for a clean and happy area for your favorite feline friend.

Best litter box for multiple cats Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: Meowant Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box $399.89 at Amazon
$699.99 Save $300.10 Get Deal Why we like it

The Meowant Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box is an excellent option for multiple cat owners, and it's also a great self-scooping option in general. In addition to looking like some sort of space-age pod, it has 10 different sensors that can detect when your cats approach and use the litter box, which means if it's in the middle of cleaning, it will stop and wait for your cat to finish up. It's also plenty large enough to hold multiple cats' waste. When it does so, it sends all of that nastiness into a separate waste bin that can be filtered out and then disposed of on your schedule.

It's super quiet, and its electric door is large enough for even bigger cats to get in if they need to go. You can also control the litter box with its accompanying app as well, and there's a wide variety of features to make it even more palatable for your discerning cats.

Best budget litter box deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Smart Self-Cleaning Litter Box $184.95 at Amazon
$229.95 Save $45.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Smart Self-Cleaning Litter Box is an affordable smart solution that connects via app so you can see when it needs to be cleaned even when you're away from home. It can be set to run through an automatic cleaning cycle every 20 minutes and can detect when your cat is finished doing its business with sensors that know when your cat enters and leaves the box. It only needs to be changed out once a month, which could be a life-changing timeline for a cat owner used to scooping every day.

Thanks to other connected features like usage alerts and other health-based information that lets you know how your cat is doing, you can even keep your finger on the pulse of your beloved fur friend's health.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get an automatic pet feeder up to $36 off before Amazon Pet Day ends

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 18:40

SAVE UP TO $36: Amazon Pet Day ends at midnight. Shop discounted automatic pet feeders and put your pet's mealtimes on autopilot.

Our top picks: Best automatic dog feeder deal Petlibro Automatic Dog Feeder (6 L) $63.99 at Amazon (save $16 ) Get Deal Best automatic cat feeder deal Petlibro Automatic Cat Feeder (5-liter) $74.99 at Amazon (save $15 ) Get Deal Best automatic water dispenser deal Petkit Stainless Steel Automatic Water Dispenser $52.99 at Amazon (save $36.01) Get Deal

If you're a pet parent, you know how hectic life can get. It's easy to worry about whether your furry friend is getting fed on time, especially if you're away from home. Automatic pet feeders can be a huge help in these situations.

SEE ALSO: Grab pet toys on sale during Amazon Pet Day and maximize your furry friend's fun

These handy devices make sure your pet gets meals on a consistent schedule, even when you can't be there. Some of the feeders even work with Alexa or mobile apps, so you can check in and adjust feeding times no matter where you are. It's a great way to keep your pet happy and healthy.

Amazon's annual Pet Day sale is the perfect time to find a great deal on an automatic feeder. But hurry: these deals end at midnight on May 8.

Here are a few of our favorite deals on automatic feeders to get you started:

Best automatic dog feeder deal Opens in a new window Credit: PETLIBRO Our pick: Petlibro Automatic Dog Feeder (6-liter) $63.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $16.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Petlibro Automatic Dog Feeder (6-liter) features a built-in custom recording function, so you can record a voice message for your pet to hear during mealtime. It also has an LCD screen displaying the meal schedule and portion sizes, allowing you to customize and control your pet's feeding routine with the touch of a button. Additionally, the Petlibro Automatic Dog Feeder has a large capacity of six liters, ensuring that your furry friend's meals can last for days. The lock-lid top keeps food fresh and secure.

Best automatic cat feeder deal Opens in a new window Credit: Petlibro Our pick: Petlibro Automatic Cat Feeder (5L) $74.99 at Amazon
$89.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The Petlibro Automatic Cat Feeder (5-liter) is even snazzier than its dog counterpart. This feeder features WiFi connectivity and can be controlled via the Petlibro app on your smartphone. With enough flexibility to feed your feline up to 10 meals per day with one-half cup portions, you can easily customize your cat's feeding schedule to meet their dietary needs.

It allows you to pre-record a personalized voice message that will play during mealtime to comfort and reassure your cat. You can record up to 10 different messages so your cat will never get bored of hearing the same one over and over again.

With smart notifications enabled, you'll receive alerts on your phone whenever your cat has been fed or if the food supply is running low.

Best automatic water dispenser deal Opens in a new window Credit: Petkit Our pick: Petkit Stainless Steel Automatic Water Dispenser $52.99
$89.00 Save $36.01 Get Deal Why we like it

The Petkit Stainless Steel Automatic Water Dispenser is our top pick for pet hydration. Its quiet pump ensures gentle and quiet water flow, perfect for pets who are easily startled or noise-sensitive.

It’s not cordless, but it does connect to your home's WiFi network. You can check on it remotely through the Petkit app on your smartphone. This allows you to monitor your pet's water consumption and refill the dispenser as needed.

More automatic feeder and water dispenser deals:
Categories: IT General, Technology

'Twisters' trailer: Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar-Jones chase gnarly tornadoes

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 18:34
"Twisters," starring Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar-Jones, hits theaters July 19. Trailer.
Categories: IT General, Technology

Would you trade in your iPad for a free Pixel tablet? Google is making your dreams come true.

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 18:22

Sure, you could replace your old iPad with a new one. But what if you got an Android tablet for free instead?

That's a deal Google is currently running on its U.S. online marketplace, anyway, as spotted by Android Police. Google will give you a Pixel Tablet (first released in 2023) for free if you trade in an iPad — and it can be as old as 2018's sixth-gen iPad.

SEE ALSO: 2024 iPad Air hands-on: Call me greedy, but I want more What do you actually get for trading in an iPad?

Technically speaking, Google is offering $399 in trade-in value for these iPads — and that just so happens to be the new price for the Pixel Tablet as of this week. The only problem with this whole arrangement is that Google stopped including the Pixel Tablet's signature speaker dock with the tablet as part of the price drop. You can buy it separately for $129.

So, in other words, be warned that trading in your old iPad for a Pixel Tablet means you won't get the whole Pixel Tablet experience. The speaker dock turns the tablet into a little desktop TV, which I felt gave the device a unique identity that other tablets don't necessarily have out of the box. Without it, it's just another Android tablet.

Still, free is free.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save up to $60 on a pet DNA kit during the final hours of Amazon Pet Day

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 18:20

Ever wondered which breed your dog really is or how your cat's dental health is going? Wonder no more thanks to these great deals on pet DNA kits during the last day of Amazon Pet Day.

Best pet DNA kits at Amazon Pet Day Best pet DNA kit for dogs AncestryDNA dog breed identification test $78 at Amazon (save $21) Get Deal Best pet DNA kit for cats Basepaws cat DNA test $99 at Amazon (save $60) Get Deal Best dog DNA kit for fast results Embark Breed & Health dog DNA test $139 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal Best dog DNA kit for locating relatives Wisdom Panel Breed Discovery dog DNA kit $67.99 at Amazon (save $17) Get Deal

Knowing your dog or cat's genetic makeup might initially seem like just scratching a curiosity itch, but the knowledge they reveal can be useful. Genetic testing for your pets can give you insights into their behavior, common health issues of their specific breed, and introduce you to their relatives. If any of this piques your interest, Amazon Pet Day has some great deals on pet DNA kits for both cats and dogs.

Hurry to grab these deals because Amazon Pet Day ends tonight at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Here are the best pet DNA kit deals we've found so far:

Best pet DNA kit for dogs Opens in a new window Credit: AncestryDNA Our pick: AncestryDNA dog breed identification test $78.00 at Amazon
$99.00 Save $21.00 Get Deal Why we like it

The AncestryDNA dog breed identification kit is simple to use: collect a saliva sample, pack it up, and send it off. In about two to six weeks, you'll get detailed online results that give specifics about your dog's genetic makeup. Ancestry will list which breed (or breeds) are present in your dog with percentages of each. These details can help explain not only physical characteristics but personality traits and common behaviors, too.

Best pet DNA kit for cats Opens in a new window Credit: Basepaws Our pick: Basepaws cat DNA test $99.00 at Amazon
$159.00 Save $60.00 Get Deal Why we like it

While swabbing your cat's gums and teeth might not sound like the best day ever, the results are worth the effort. The Basepaws cat DNA test comes back with results that'll indicate your cat's breed (or breeds), as well as common traits. Basepaws scans for over 21 breeds and 25 genetic traits.

Another benefit is the medical read-out that comes with the analysis. Basepaws screens for over 40 genetic diseases and gives you an oral health report. Both of these elements can help with early detection of potential future health issues and clue you in on the mouth health of your pet.

Best dog DNA kit with fast results Opens in a new window Credit: Embark Our pick: Embark Breed & Health dog DNA test $139.00 at Amazon
$159.00 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

With a return time between two and four weeks, the Embark Breed & Health dog DNA test can be a great option if you're looking for fast results. Embark developed the test in partnership with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine to use research-grade genotyping. The test scans for relations to over 350 dog breeds and even includes dingoes, coyotes, and wolves.

The DNA test also looks at over 250 genetic health conditions to help you and your vet better care for your dog's needs. And if you have questions about the results, check in with one of Embark's vets or genetic experts.

Best dog DNA kit for locating relatives Opens in a new window Credit: Wisdom Health Our pick: Wisdom Panel Breed Discovery dog DNA kit $67.99 at Amazon
$84.99 Save $17.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Finding out a distant cousin lives in Paris can be a pretty exciting discovery. Finding your dog's sibling lives one town over is arguably even more exciting. The Wisdom Panel Breed Discovery dog DNA kit scans a large breed database and then allows you to see photos, compare genetic testing results, and even send messages (imagine the playdate possibilities). Wisdom Panel says the company has found relative matches for over 99.9% of the 3 million dogs they've tested.

The test also gives a clear breakdown of breeds present and tests for medical sensitivities, which can let you know if your dog is more likely to have a reaction to certain medications.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Amazon deal of the day: Save $50 on the Skylight digital picture frame — a sweet Mother's Day gift idea

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 17:58
Amazon deals of the day at a glance: OUR TOP PICK Skylight digital picture frame (10-inch) $119.99 at Amazon (save $50) Get Deal BEST HEADPHONES DEAL Beats Studio Pro $179.95 at Amazon (save $170.04) Get Deal BEST PET DEAL Tractive GPS tracker for dogs $29.99 at Amazon (save $20) Get Deal BEST SECURITY DEAL Blink Outdoor 4 (4th gen) 5-camera system $199.99 at Amazon (save $200) Get Deal

There are always deals to be found at Amazon — and we're pros at spotting the ones actually worth your money. You'd be surprised how many discounts look good on paper, but actually are too good to be true. Lucky for you, we've sorted through pages of deals and handpicked a few gems.

Between Mother's Day sales and Amazon's Pet Day discounts, there are some great options for you to shop on May 8. Here are the best Amazon deals of the day.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Skylight Amazon deal of the day: Skylight digital picture frame (10-inch) $119.99 at Amazon
$169.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

At a loss for what to get mom for Mother's Day? A digital picture frame serves as a modern and convenient way to display her favorite memories and show off all of her favorite people and adventures. The Skylight 10-inch frame is a solid budget pick that lets you load it up with pictures by connecting to a WiFi network. It offers something a lot of other digital frames don't have: local storage and touch-based controls, so it's ideal for moms who aren't always connected. The downside? Its screen isn't as pristine as more expensive options might be.

It's on sale for just $119.99 for Mother's Day at Amazon — that's 29% off its usual price and matches its all-time low price from Black Friday season.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Pro $179.95 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $170.04 Get Deal

Traveling this summer? You're going to want some noise-canceling headphones. As Mashable's Alex Perry noted in his review, "It's hard to find a pair of over-ear headphones with a better all-around experience than Beats Studio Pro." The sound is top-notch, the battery life is highly impressive (24 hours with ANC turned on; up to 40 without), and they work equally as well for iOS and Android users. The only thing that's not so great is their price (reg. $349.99). Fortunately, after the release of the Beats Solo 4, older-generation Beats headphones are seeing big discounts. As of May 8, you can snag the Beats Studio Pros for only $179.95 — that's 49% in savings and just $10 shy of their all-time low.

Read our full review of the Beats Studio Pro.

Opens in a new window Credit: Tractive Tractive GPS tracker for dogs $29.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

Thanks to Amazon's Pet Day deals, you can snag the Tractive GPS tracker for dogs on sale for just $29.99. That's 40% off its usual price and matches its all-time low price. A solid pet tracker on a budget, the Tractive GPS collar packs a bundle of features like a waterproof design, fast and accurate notifications, robust customization (including virtual fences) via the companion app, in-depth activity monitoring, and a built-in light.

"Although the lackluster battery life can be a pain to stay on top of, the tracker features enough bells and whistles to make it worth its low price compared to more expensive options," Mashable Lead Shopping Reporter Dylan Haas concluded in his review.

Read our full review of the Tractive GPS collar.

Opens in a new window Credit: Blink Blink Outdoor 4 (4th gen) 5-camera system $199.99 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal

Great for pet owners, frequent travelers, or any homeowner looking to keep an eye on their abode, the Blink Outdoor 4 is one of our top overall picks for a security camera. The Amazon-owned security camera works seamlessly with other Alexa-enabled devices, comes with customizable motion zones without the need for a subscription (although, a Blink subscription will unlock even more features), and has a battery life that's hard to beat. Once you pop in the AAs you won't have to worry about changing them for two years. This five-camera system lets you outfit your home's entire perimeter for only $199.99 as of May 8 — that's 50% in savings and matches this particular bundle's all-time low price.

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple's thin new iPad Pro with OLED and M4 is already $50 off at Best Buy

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 17:34

SAVE $50: As of May 8, My Best Buy Plus and Total members get $50 off when pre-ordering either size and any configuration of the new Apple iPad Pro (starting at $949).

Quick links: 11-inch model Apple iPad Pro Starting at $949 with paid My Best Buy membership (save $50) Get Deal 13-inch model Apple iPad Pro Starting at $1,249 with paid My Best Buy membership (save $50) Get Deal unlock the deal My Best Buy Plus or Total membership $49.99/year or $179.99/year Join Now

Less than 24 hours after its reveal at Apple's Tuesday "Let Loose" event, the latest iPad Pro is already $50 off at Best Buy — but not for everyone.

Paid Plus and Total members of the retailer's My Best Buy program are the sole enjoyers of its exclusive preorder discount, which applies to both 11- and 13-inch sizes of the premium tablet in every configuration. That includes the variants with cellular connectivity and those with its new nano-texture glass (matte) display option.

If you haven't upgraded to a premium My Best Buy membership yet, your cheapest option is the Plus tier, which costs $49.99 per year for perks like free two-day shipping, extended 60-day returns, and access to members-only discounts. (In this one's case, it's basically paying for itself.) For those who value a little extra peace of mind, a Total plan adds 24/7 Geek Squad support, up to two years of product protection on most purchases — including AppleCare+ — and a 20% discount on repairs for $179.99 per year.

SEE ALSO: Everything Apple announced during its iPad event, including new OLED iPad Pro

To give a quick recap of Tuesday's keynote, the all-new iPad Pro has been majorly overhauled since its previous iteration. It boasts a remarkably thin and lightweight design — it's even slimmer than its just-announced Air counterpart — and it's powered by a fast new M4 chip that hasn't even made it over to the Mac lineup yet. It also boasts a bright new Ultra Retina XDR display featuring "tandem" (stacked) OLED panels for pure, inky blacks and excellent contrast.

The new iPad Pro will officially launch on Wednesday, May 15 alongside its new Magic Keyboard ($299+), a new Apple Pencil Pro ($129), and the new iPad Air ($599+). Those three were also available for preorder at the time of writing, but the iPad Pro is the only brand-new Apple product that's received a discount thus far.

Editor's note: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that the deal was only available to My Best Buy Plus members. It's actually open to both Plus and Total subscribers.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Grab pet toys on sale during Amazon Pet Day and maximize your furry friend's fun

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 17:16

AMAZON PET DAY DEALS: May 8th is Amazon Pet Day. Get deals on enrichment toys, apparel, and more. These deals end at midnight.

Our top picks: Best dog toy deal Nina Ottoson Dog Twister treat puzzle $6.84 at Amazon (save $10.15) Get Deal Best cat toy deal Nina Ottoson Buggin’ Out Puzzle & Play cat puzzle game $12.20 at Amazon (save $6.79) Get Deal Best rabbit toy deal Stacking Cups (8-Piece) $8.09 at Amazon (save $0.90) Get Deal

It’s National Pet Month, and Amazon is celebrating with its annual Amazon Pet Day sale. This 48-hour event (ending at 11:59 p.m. on May 8) offers incredible deals and discounts on a wide range of pet products, from toys to treats and everything in between.

Now’s your chance to upgrade your pet's playtime and stock up on their favorite goodies. In addition to standard playtime favorites like balls, squeaky toys, and ropes, Amazon has hundreds of deals on interactive and engaging toys and puzzles designed to keep your pet entertained for hours.

SEE ALSO: The best dog puzzles to occupy your pup and keep them mentally stimulated

These enrichment toys challenge your pet's mind with puzzles, treat-dispensing features, and interactive elements. They encourage problem-solving and natural instincts like sniffing and foraging.

Here are some of our favorite deals on enrichment toys for pets during Amazon Pet Day:

Best dog toy deal Opens in a new window Credit: Nina Ottoson Our pick: Nina Ottoson Dog Twister treat puzzle $6.84 at Amazon
$16.99 Save $10.15 Get Deal Why we like it

The Nina Ottoson Dog Twister treat puzzle is our top pick for dogs. It works with just about any training-sized treat, and the interactive triangle block compartments keep your dog engaged and entertained as they work to find the hidden treats. Even better, this top-rated puzzle toy is available for just $6.84, down from $16.99. That’s a 60% discount.

More enrichment toys for dogs: Best cat toy deal Opens in a new window Credit: Nina Ottoson Our pick: Nina Ottoson Buggin’ Out Puzzle & Play cat puzzle game $12.20 at Amazon
$18.99 Save $6.79 Get Deal Why we like it

The Nina Ottoson Buggin’ Out Puzzle & Play cat puzzle game is our favorite pick for cats. This interactive puzzle with bug-shaped interactive elements has 16 separate compartments and requires your cat to use their paws and nose to uncover the hidden treats. It can also be used for daily feeding to stimulate your cat's mind and encourage natural hunting behaviors.

Plus, it's currently on sale for only $12.20. That’s a 36% discount.

More enrichment toys for cats:Best rabbit toy deal Opens in a new window Credit: Mooydee Our pick: Stacking Cups (8-piece) $8.09 at Amazon
$8.99 Save $0.90 Get Deal Why we like it

Dogs and cats aren’t the only pets who can enjoy interactive toys. This eight-piece Stacking Cups set is our top pick for rabbits. The cups feature small holes so you can hide treats or pieces of hay inside, providing mental stimulation and encouraging foraging behavior. (It’s kind of like Montessori for rabbits.) The discount isn’t significant, but bunnies love these little nesting toys. Just look at Instagram, and you'll find countless adorable bunnies playing with these cups.

More enrichment toys for rabbits, hampsters, and gerbils:
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to set up Siri on your iPhone

Mashable - Wed, 05/08/2024 - 17:02

If you've been saying "Hey, Siri!" to your iPhone only for Apple's digital assistant to ignore you completely (rude), chances are the function hasn't been enabled yet.

In order for Siri to work, you'll need to enable it on your iPhone before you can have the assistant perform tasks like texting your friends or searching the internet hands-free. The process is a simple one and should only take you a minute or two. Here's what you need to do.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new AI: 3 ways Siri could beat ChatGPT How to activate Siri Total Time
  • 5 min
What You Need
  • iPhone

Step 1: Go to your iPhone settings.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap "Siri & Search".

Find "Siri & Search" in your iPhone settings Credit: Andy Moser / Apple

Step 3: Tap the switch at the top to turn it green and enable "Listen for 'Hey, Siri'".

How it'll look when Siri is fully enabled on your iPhone Credit: Andy Moser / Apple

Step 4: Your iPhone will prompt you to set up "Hey, Siri" — tap "Continue".

Step 5: You'll be asked to say a series of phrases into your phone.

This calibrates Siri and helps the software understand and react to your individual voice.

Step 6: Then just tap "Done" and "Hey Siri" is successfully set up.

You can now say "Hey Siri" and ask Siri to do a number of different commands, such as calling your mom.

You can also access Siri by using a button on your iPhone (rather than your voice). Again, you'll find this option in your iPhone settings in "Siri & Search."

Under "Listen for 'Hey, Siri'" you'll see an option that says "Press Side Button for Siri" (or, if you have an iPhone model that still has a "Home" button, it'll say "Press Home Button for Siri." Tap the switch on the right to turn it green, which will enable you to hold your side button or Home button to bring up Siri.

Once you have both "Listen for 'Hey, Siri'" and "Press Side/Home button for Siri activated, your Siri & Search settings should look like this:

How it'll look when Siri is fully enabled on your iPhone Credit: Andy Moser / Apple

Siri is now enabled on your iPhone! So next time you say, "Hey, Siri!" she might actually answer you.

Now you're set up, try the 10 best Siri Shortcuts to save you time.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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