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Google Pixel 8a is an impressive deal even with some lackluster AI features

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 16:00

Last year, I called the Google Pixel 7a a “great potential swan-song” for Google’s budget Pixel A-series line of phones. I couldn’t have been more wrong about the “swan-song” part, though, because I’ve been using a Pixel 8a for the past several days.

That’s fine, though, because Google’s track record of making really good $500 Android handsets has remained consistent over the years, and is unchanged in 2024. While I’m not totally enamored with every “new” feature packed into the Pixel 8a (enough with the AI stuff), its remarkable parity with a phone that was $200 more back in October makes Pixel 8a a compelling option for anyone who’s overdue for an affordable Android upgrade. 

SEE ALSO: Google I/O 2024: What to expect What I like about the Google Pixel 8a

It’s important to note up-front that much of what makes the Pixel 8a good also made the Pixel 8 a quality handset late last year. Its design and specs are nearly identical in all the ways that matter, but again, you’re paying $200 less for this one, so that’s cool.

Google didn’t fix what wasn't broken Looks like a Pixel, alright. Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable

When I say the design and specs are similar, I mean it. 

Pixel 8a looks like the spitting image of Pixel 8, with Google’s now-distinctive horizontal camera bar situated in the upper portion of the phone’s backside. Its corners are rounded and its back has a matte finish in one of the four following colorways: Aloe, Bay, Obsidian, and Porcelain. 

Our review unit came in the cool blue Bay color and I personally adore it. The other colors are fine, I guess, but Bay is definitely the way to go this year.

Here are the basic specs of the review unit Google provided us:

  • 6.1-inch Actua display with 2400x1080 resolution and up to 120Hz adaptive refresh rate

  • Google Tensor G3 chipset

  • 128GB of storage

  • 8GB of RAM

You can also upgrade to 256GB of storage this year, which bolts an extra $60 onto the Pixel 8a’s $500 starting price tag.

Those specs are all right in line with the Pixel 8, with the exception of display size, which is a tenth of an inch smaller than the 6-2-inch glass present on last year’s entry-level Pixel. Despite that, Pixel 8a is actually a tenth of an inch taller than Pixel 8 and two-tenths of an ounce heavier, to boot. 

Look, these aren’t big differences, but they are differences, and they need to be noted, folks.

Almost everything you want is here I like the new colorway a lot. Credit: Joe Malonado/Mashable

Point being, this is basically a Pixel 8 with a few small cuts around the edges that barely impact the everyday experience at all. That means all of the AI features that made their debut in Pixel 8 are here, and how you feel about that depends on how you felt about them last year.

The Pixel 8 experience has been pretty faithfully recreated in a cheaper phone. You can use Circle to Search to draw a little circle around anything on the screen and have Google’s AI bring up a relevant web search for you. You can also use the AI call screening feature to have conversations with service workers without actually talking to them.

That means AI camera features like Magic Editor and Audio Magic Eraser also make their return in Pixel 8a. Best Take allows you to composite together a “perfect” group photo based on several tries, and Magic Eraser is back to remove photobombers from your vacation pictures.

I have…feelings about some of these features that I’ll get to in a bit, but it’s at the very least commendable that Google included so much of the Pixel 8 in the comparatively more affordable Pixel 8a.

Flagship-level performance

That goes for performance, too.

There isn’t a ton to say about it, honestly. Pixel 8a uses the same Tensor G3 chip as Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, and my experience from an everyday performance standpoint has been pretty much the same as it was on those phones. It doesn’t ever hitch even when several apps are open, everything is smooth as can be, and I haven’t found heating to be a problem.

The 120Hz refresh rate doesn’t hurt, either. It just makes everything feel more responsive and quick. Points to Google for getting it into the Pixel 8a this year after the 7a could only go up to 90Hz. For reference, the base iPhone 15 is still stuck at 60Hz.

What I dislike about the Google Pixel 8a

There’s nothing functionally wrong with Pixel 8a that I can discern. My main concern is philosophical.

It’s time for some new ideas Don't change the camera bar, though. Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable

Basically, the Pixel 8a suffers from being an iteration of the Pixel 8, which wasn’t the most exciting Pixel in years. At least, not for me.

I just don’t think most of these AI features are all that useful or would even be desirable if they were useful. I’ve seen the TV commercial where a woman edits a photo so it looks like her husband is throwing a baby dangerously high in the air hundreds of times during basketball games and I still don’t understand who exactly Magic Editor is for. 

Well, I guess features like that and Best Take are for people who want to strip their social media presences of all imperfection and genuine humanity, but that’s not me. 

In other words, the things that separate the Pixel 8a from the Pixel 7a (aside from the boosted refresh rate and new chip) aren’t all that enticing. This is a very good phone for the price, but the need to upgrade to Pixel 8a is not especially urgent if you bought a Pixel in the last two or three years.

What’s ‘meh’ about the Google Pixel 8a

Somewhere along the line, Google has to make cuts to justify dropping the price of the 8a to $500. This year, the only difference that really bothers me is one little cut camera trick.

One missing camera feature

Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro both had a Macro Focus feature that allowed you to position the camera way up close against objects with small, fine details and get snazzy looking shots. 

[Insert macro shot here]

As you may have guessed by now, Pixel 8a can’t do that. Bummer! That said, the camera is still pretty good for what you pay for.

Google Pixel 8a camera

I’m going to keep this section relatively brief because Google didn’t do much to the Pixel 8a’s cameras compared to the Pixel 7a. In fact, specs-wise, Google didn’t do anything at all. Both Pixel 7a and Pixel 8a share the exact same physical camera specs:

  • 64MP wide rear lens

  • 13MP ultra-wide rear lens

  • 13MP front lens

That’s not necessarily a bad thing because this isn’t a flagship phone. The Pixel 8a’s cameras combined with Google’s computational photo software can still create nice-looking shots, even when New York City conspires to be gloomy and grey outside for an entire weekend:

Sorry for the lack of blue skies. Credit: Alex Perry/Mashable

As someone who loves the 30x zoom in the recent Pixel Pro phones, I’m a little sad the Pixel 8a’s zoom lens only goes up to 8x, but I get it. That said, shots taken at 8x zoom do look very sharp.

No zoom. Credit: Alex Perry/Mashable All the zoom. Credit: Alex Perry/Mashable

Portrait mode is back and does portrait mode things.

Who wouldn't hang this in their estate? Credit: Alex Perry/Mashable

Night Sight continues to work wonders in the right circumstances, such as my nearly totally pitch-black backyard at night:

You couldn't see this with your eyes at all. Credit: Alex Perry/Mashable

This is a perfectly fine camera array for a $500 phone. Hopefully Google finds some more interesting improvements for Pixel 9a that don’t involve AI.

Google Pixel 8a battery life

Another very marginal cut from Pixel 8 came in the form of battery size. Last year’s baseline Pixel had a 4,575mAh battery, while the Pixel 8a has a reduced 4,492mAh engine powering itself. 

As tends to be the case with recent Pixel phones (at least in my experience) though, that doesn’t really matter. I was able to go about 24 hours between charges while using the phone regularly for video streaming, web browsing, and social media. That’s right in line with both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 7a in my testing. It’s also more than good enough for me.

Google Pixel 8a final thoughts

Whether or not you should buy the Pixel 8a really depends on where you’re at in your personal phone upgrade journey.

If you’re on an older Android device and desperately need something affordable that will get years of software upgrades and general reliability, the Pixel 8a is a great choice. Its elite performance coupled with a flagship-esque display and decent enough camera specs are more than enough to make up for some lackluster returning AI features.

But if you have a more recent Pixel (even an A-series from the last year or two), I would recommend waiting until the Pixel 9 announcement later this year. Pixel 8a is an appealing option for those in need of an urgent upgrade, but it doesn’t create any urgency by itself.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Can you connect AirPods on Xbox? Here's how to pair.

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 14:17

If you're the type of person who loves a late night gaming session with the sound up but also cares about your roommates and neighbours getting decent sleep, you might want to try headphones. And they don't have to be mega cans, earbuds will work just fine.

Luckily, it's really easy to pair your Xbox console with your AirPods. And let's face it, playing with the sound down is a prime strategy for scaredy-cats like me getting through horror games but music and score, sound effects and foley, and voice over work is half the art of gaming.

So, let's pair your AirPods with your Xbox Series S, Series X, or Xbox One.

SEE ALSO: How to connect Xbox controller to PC

Before you start, make sure you've downloaded the Xbox app on iOS or Android and sign in/sign up with a Microsoft account.

How to use AirPods with Xbox Total Time
  • 5 min
What You Need
  • Xbox Series S/X or Xbox One
  • AirPods
  • Xbox app and Microsoft account

Step 1: Turn on your Xbox and go to Settings.

You can find Settings by pressing the Xbox button in the middle of your Xbox controller, pushing the left stick across to your account profile, then pushing the stick down to "Settings".

Step 2: Select "Devices & connections."

Push the left stick down the menu to find this.

Step 3: Select "Remote features" and tick "Enable remote features."

Your Xbox will test your setup for remote connection. If you're good to go, a message will display on your TV screen telling you this.

Step 4: Connect your AirPods to your phone.

We've got whole guides for how to connect your AirPods to your iPhone or Android, but TL;DR open your AirPods case with the buds sitting inside it, hold down the button on the back of the case until the light on the front goes from green to white, then pick the AirPods in your Bluetooth settings.

Step 5: Open your Xbox app on iPhone or Android.

Make sure you're signed into your Microsoft account.

Step 6: Tap the "Remote play" icon in the top right corner of the Xbox app.

It's the little rectangle with radio waves coming out of it, next to the notifications bell.

Credit: Shannon Connellan / Xbox

Step 7: Tap "Remote play on this device."

You'll see the name of your Xbox, whether Xbox Series S, Series X, or Xbox One. You'll also get a reminder to make sure your Wi-Fi is on.

Step 8: Tap "Allow" to let Xbox find and connect to devices on your local network.

Once connected, you'll see your Xbox screen mirrored to your phone screen.

Step 9: Now just pop your AirPods in and the sound will mirror that of your Xbox!

If you want to talk to other players while you're using your AirPods, you can just tap the the two vertical lines of dots on the top left of your phone screen, then tap the three horizontal dots, and tap the "Mute" button. This allows Xbox to access the microphone and enable chat.

Credit: Shannon Connellan / Mashable

Your roommates are so welcome.

If you have a Nintendo Switch, right this way.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to connect your AirPods to a computer

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

So, you can't quite figure out how to connect your AirPods to your computer. Stuff happens! It's OK, because the problem is easy enough to solve.

We've got a quick rundown for you, but there's also a helpful page from Apple itself that can point you in the right direction for any model computer.

SEE ALSO: Yes, you can stick your AirPods to your MacBook screen, if you absolutely must

Now, first things first. The process of pairing your AirPods (2nd and 3rd generation) or AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd generation) via Bluetooth might look different depending on what type of computer you use. Let's go with a Mac first.

How to connect AirPods to a Mac

First you want to make sure that your Mac's operating system is up to date. To do that, click on the Apple icon in the upper left hand corner of your desktop screen and click on "About this Mac." A screen will pop up, and there you can click on "Software Update."

It's always best to update to the latest, which is macOS Sonoma 14.4.1. According to Apple, 2nd generation AirPods require macOS Mojave 10.14.4 or later (3rd generation needs macOS Monterey or later), and AirPods Pro require Catalina 10.15.1 or later (2nd generation needs the latest, Sonoma).

Now that you've made sure your Mac is up to date, follow these simple steps to connect your AirPods.

Total Time
  • 5 min
What You Need
  • AirPods
  • Mac

Step 1: Open System Preferences.

If you can't find it, it's the icon on your desktop that looks like a gear. You can also search for System Preferences using Spotlight (the magnifying glass in the upper right hand corner of your desktop.)

Step 2: Select Bluetooth.

I happen to use a Mac, so here's what I'm talking about. This is the icon you're looking for.

The Bluetooth icon is easy to find in system preferences. Credit: Screenshot: apple / system preferences

Step 3: Place both AirPods in the case and open the lid.

Simple enough.

Step 4: Hold the button on the back of the AirPod case.

You should see the light start to blink white. Once it does, you can let go of the button.

Step 5: Wait for your AirPods to show up on your devices, then click Connect.

Presto. That should be it. Note: If you do not see your AirPods, double-check that Bluetooth is turned on, then restart the process.

Connecting AirPods to your Mac is easy. Credit: Screenshot: Apple

Now, what if you don't use a Mac? Well, the process should be pretty much exactly the same. Pretty much.

How to connect AirPods to a PC or Windows laptop

The only thing that's really going to change is how you navigate to the Bluetooth page. Here's a few different ways you might get there:

Total Time
  • 5 min
What You Need
  • AirPods
  • PC or Windows laptop

Step 1: On a PC, open Settings from your Start menu.

Step 2: Select devices, navigate to Bluetooth and other devices, then hit the plus sign where it says "Add Bluetooth or other device."

Step 3: Open the AirPods' case lid, hold the button, and select your AirPods once they pop up on the screen.

Step 4: The headphones should connect, then you'll click "Done."

Not all PCs come equipped with Bluetooth, especially desktops. However if you have a laptop, it's quite likely that your PC does have Bluetooth capabilities.

There you have it, folks. Enjoy your brave new world in which your AirPods pair seamlessly with your computer.

Meanwhile, if you want to properly clean your AirPods, reset them, or even stick them to your MacBook screen, we've got you covered.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch the 2024 French Open online for free

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 12:59

TL;DR: Watch the 2024 French Open for free on 9Now, France TV, RTBF, ORF, or Servus TV. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The biggest clay court tennis championship on the calendar is fast approaching, and that means tennis fans from all over the world will be scrambling for a way to stream the 2024 French Open. It seems like these massive sporting moments are never easy to watch. Why is that the case? We can't answer that, but we can provide you with some solutions to your streaming struggles.

If you're interested in watching the 2024 French Open from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

What is the French Open?

The French Open, also known as Roland-Garros, is a major tennis tournament held over two weeks at the Stade Roland Garros in Paris, France. It's the only Grand Slam tournament held on a clay surface, and is chronologically the second of the four annual Grand Slam tournaments.

The current singles champions are Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek.

When is the 2024 French Open?

The 2024 French Open is the 129th edition of the competition. This year's event will take place from May 20 to June 9.

How to watch the 2024 French Open for free

It's possible to live stream the 2024 French Open for free on a number of streaming platforms:

The issue here is that you need to be connecting from these countries to access these free streaming services. The only way to bypass these geo-restrictions is with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can stream the 2024 French Open for free from anywhere in the world.

Unblock free streaming services to watch the 2024 French Open 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 Australia, Austria, Belgium, or France

  4. Connect to 9Now, France TV, RTBF, ORF, or Servus TV

  5. Watch the 2024 French Open for free from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer pretty generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these guarantees, you can watch Roland Garros without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream the 2024 French Open before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the French Open?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on free platforms from around the world, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Watch the 2024 French Open for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Watch 'House of the Dragon' stars react to key scenes ahead of Season 2

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 12:18
"House of the Dragon" stars Emma D'Arcy and Olivia Cooke rewatched key scenes from Season 1 ahead of Season 2.
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to go live on Twitch from your PC, Mac, or smartphone

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 12:10

If you were unfamiliar with Twitch in the past, you probably know about the popular livestreaming platform now.

The Amazon-owned streaming service has grown exponentially over the years, now with more than 30 million daily viewers and around 7 million creators going live on Twitch every month, according to the platform.

Are you a first-time streamer looking to get in on the Twitch action? Or maybe you're a longtime YouTuber who feels like Twitch, which focuses on live video, might be a better platform for your livestreams? Then you've come to the right place. Going live on Twitch is quick and easy, and we'll teach you everything you need to know about how to do it.

SEE ALSO: Meet Sketch, the streamer taking over the sports world

But, before we dive in, make sure you sign up for a Twitch account first as that's required for going live. Just go to Twitch.tv and click the Sign Up button in the upper right corner. Choose your username and fill out your personal info and you'll be ready to go.

How to stream live on Twitch from your mobile device

The fastest way to start streaming on Twitch is to go live from your mobile device.

Total Time
  • 5 min
What You Need
  • Smartphone
  • Twitch app

Step 1: First, download the Twitch app on your smartphone.

If you have an Android device, you'll find the app in the Google Play Store. If you're an iPhone user, just head over to the App Store.

Step 2: Next, sign in to your account and tap your profile image in the upper left corner.

Credit: Mashable Screenshot

Step 3: On your account page, click the "Go Live" button.

Credit: Mashable Screenshot

Step 4: You'll then be presented with two options: "Stream Games" and "Stream IRL".

The "Stream IRL" option utilizes your device's camera.

Credit: Mashable Screenshot

Step 5: If you want to "Stream Games", choose your title.

If you pick the first option, you'll be presented with a screen where you pick the game you want to stream.

Credit: Mashable Screenshot

Step 6: Choose a name for your stream and adjust audio settings.

After choosing this category, you'll be given options where you can title your stream and adjust the audio volumes for your smartphone's mic and the gameplay volume.

Credit: Mashable Screenshot

Step 7: Click on the record button.

You'll see a prompt that lets you know that Twitch will screencast your device to your Twitch livestream. This pop-up warns you that any notifications that show on your screen will be broadcast as well, so it's best to turn off notifications or turn on "Do Not Disturb" options.

Credit: Mashable Screenshot

Step 8: Tap on "Start Broadcast" and you're live!

If you choose the "Stream IRL" option, you'll be broadcasting yourself from your mobile device's camera. You'll receive similar stream options menus where you can set the title of your broadcast and then tap "Start Stream" to go live.

How to stream live on Twitch from your PC or Mac

If you'd like to stream while you're on your Mac or gaming on your PC, you're going to need software to broadcast from.

There are popular free options like OBS, which works on both PC and Mac. There are also paid options like the Mac-native Ecamm Live.

However, Twitch now has its own free Twitch Studio application to help you get started on PC or Mac. If you're just starting out, it's probably best to use that before you spend money on a third-party app or learn the more complicated OBS software.

Total Time
  • 5 min
What You Need
  • PC or Mac
  • Twitch Studio

Step 1: First, download Twitch Studio.

You can get this from Twitch's official website.

Credit: Mashable Screenshot

Step 2: Login to Twitch, then connect your mic and camera.

After you install the software on your PC or Mac, open Twitch Studio and login to your Twitch account. You'll be greeted with an onboarding prompt that will walk you through connecting your mic and your webcam.

Step 3: Customize your stream.

Twitch Studio will also help you make your stream unique with different scenes and customizations. In addition, users can set up on-air Twitch notifications, chat boxes, and more from within the application. Play around with these and change them once you get a hang of how you'll be utilizing these options during your livestream.

Credit: Mashable Screenshot

Step 4: When you're ready to go live, click "Start Stream" at the bottom of the Twitch Studio app.

Credit: Mashable Screenshot

Step 5: Choose your stream category, enter your livestream title, and click "Go Live" to start streaming.

And that's it! Whether you decide to livestream your favorite game or just go live for a casual chat stream, you now know everything you need to quickly broadcast on Twitch.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to download Netflix movies and shows for offline viewing

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:50

There are a few things you'll need while planning your next trip: earplugs in case you're seated next to a toddler on an airplane; a neck pillow if you have the ability to rest on flights; and distractions from the doldrums inherent to any travel experience that doesn't go awry. For most people, those helpful items include a book or a podcast, some music or a Nintendo Switch, or maybe just a bit of work. Since you don't typically have excellent access to WiFi on a plane or train, a downloaded TV show or movie (or several) could also prove helpful.

SEE ALSO: 75 TV shows you can binge from start to finish on a flight

Outside of travel, of course, there are plenty of times watching Netflix is simply easier if you have the shows or movies downloaded so you can view them offline whenever you want. Note: Netflix's terms are, "Ad-free plans can have up to 100 active downloads at a time per device based on the number of devices included in your Netflix plan." On plans with ads, it's 15 downloads per device per month.

Here's how to do it.

How to download Netflix movies and shows for offline viewing Total Time
  • 5 mins
What You Need
  • Netflix app
  • iPhone or iPad
  • Android phone or tablet
  • Amazon Fire tablet
  • Windows 10 or 11 tablet
  • Chromebook

Step 1: Download the Netflix app.

In order to download movies and TV shows from the Netflix app, you'll first need the latest version of the app. You can get it on your iPhone or iPad running iOS 16 or later, on your Android phone or tablet running Android 5.0 or later, on your Amazon Fire tablet running Fire OS 5.0 or later, on your Windows 10 or 11 tablet or computer (only on ad-free Netflix plans), and on Chromebook through Google Play Store. Make sure you keep the app updated for it to work the best. To see if your app needs to be updated, navigate to your App Store and tap updates.

Credit: Apple screenshot

Step 2: Choose your TV show or movie.

Once you're in the app, you'll find that not all movies or TV shows are available to download on Netflix. Some of them will not have the little down arrow download button. Netflix says this is because content rights are exclusive to another company, the rights aren't available for Netflix to purchase, or a whole host of other reasons, like popularity, cost, availability, or seasonal and other localized factors. To find a movie or TV show that is downloadable, tap on your choice and look for the Downloads icon — a downward-facing arrow located near the play button. On a Windows 10 device, you'll need to open the Netflix app and select Menu, then navigate to See What You Can Download, Find Something to Download, Find More to Download, or Available for Download, depending on your device. You can also filter for shows by what is available for download.

Credit: Apple screenshot

Step 3: Download your TV show or movie.

On your device, click the Download button — that downward-facing arrow again — next to a TV show episode or a movie. It'll download the fastest, and with the least data usage, if you're on good WiFi. Once the show is downloaded, you'll have access to it in your Downloads menu. All you have to do now is find the title you want to watch and press play. Downloads will expire after a period of time, and some have a limit on how many times they can be downloaded per year. Once you’re done watching, delete downloads from your device to make more room for — you guessed it — more downloads.

About to take a flight and looking for a Netflix show to download? Here's 75 TV shows you can watch from start to finish, depending on how long your flight is.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT's The Mini crossword answers for May 13

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:26

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Monday, May 13, 2024:

AcrossBit of threaded hardware
  • The answer is screw.

Cynthia ___, actress set to star as Elphaba in the upcoming "Wicked" adaptation
  • The answer is Erivel.

"To Kill a Mockingbird" or "Mockingjay"
  • The answer is novel.

Gobble (down) ... or a winter accessory
  • The answer is scarf.

Class for aspiring U.S. citizens: Abbr.
  • The answer is esl.

DownSight, smell or taste
  • The answer is sense.

Squishy shoes with a strap that swivels
  • The answer is Crocs.

Adversary
  • The answer is rival.

"Never have I ___ ..."
  • The answer is ever.

Gobble (down) ... or a wild animal
  • The answer is wolf.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Celebrities reading weird texts from their moms is hilarious

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:13
Celebrities including Bebe Rexha, Quinta Brunson and Brett Goldstein appeared on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" to read weird and hilarious texts from their moms.
Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Euro 2024 online for free

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:04

TL;DR: Access free live streams of Euro 2024 from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

We're approaching that beautiful time of year when the whole world seems to slow down and dedicate themselves to sport, in this case for Euro 2024. The best international sides in Europe are heading to Germany to compete for the trophy, with a selection of superstars on show including Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, and Kevin De Bruyne.

If you want to watch Euro 2024 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is Euro 2024?

The 2024 UEFA European Football Championship (Euro 2024) is an international football tournament organised by UEFA. The tournament is comprised of 24 European men's national teams, with a group stage followed by knockout fixtures.

Italy are the defending champions, after beating England on penalties in the 2020 tournament final.

When is Euro 2024?

Euro 2024 is the 17th edition of the UEFA European Championship. This year's competition takes place from June 14 to July 14.

How to watch Euro 2024 for free

There are a number of free streaming platforms offering coverage of Euro 2024:

Don't panic if your location is not listed, because you can access free live streams from other countries with a VPN. These powerful tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other countries, meaning you can access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of Euro 2024 by following these simple steps:

  1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

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

  4. Visit BBC iPlayer or ITVX (recommended)

  5. Watch Euro 2024 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

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

What is the best VPN for streaming sport?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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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.

Watch Euro 2024 for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This info-packed bundle on ethical hacking is now only $50 — get 88 hours of lessons

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

TL;DR: As of May 13, you can learn in-demand skills with the ethical hacking and penetration testing course package while it's on sale for $49.99 (reg. $351).

In the digital age, cybersecurity is essential. As such, the demand for skilled ethical hackers has skyrocketed. Whether you're a beginner looking to enter the field or a tech enthusiast aiming to upgrade your skills, this ethical hacking and penetration testing training bundle could be a good place to start. These training courses will help you learn skills you could one day use as a certified cybersecurity expert — whether that's in business, healthcare, the government, or other industries. And for a limited time, it's on sale for $49.99.

This comprehensive training bundle has nine courses totaling over 88 hours. Covering the latest security domains and hacking techniques, the bundle helps prepare you for top industry-recognized certifications, potentially setting you on the path to what could become a cybersecurity career.

The Hands-On Hacking course gives you the opportunity to test out your new hacking knowledge in practical applications. The instructor will help you hone your ethical hacking skills to scan, enumerate, access, and escalate privilege against vulnerable machines.

This learning bundle also includes instruction for industry certification exams. The CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-002) course prepares you for the CompTIA exam by diving deep into the complexities of penetration testing and vulnerability management. You'll use your skills to discover and exploit vulnerabilities, analyze any detected weaknesses, and showcase your ability to adhere to ethical behaviors.

It must be noted that none of these courses gives you any actual certification. Instead, courses only offer a certificate of completion and preparation material for exams.

With the latest tools, techniques, and expert guidance, this bundle provides a way to learn from the comfort of your own home.

Get this 2024 ethical hacking and penetration testing online learning bundle while it's on sale for $49.99 (reg. $351).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shutterstock The Complete 2024 Penetration Testing & Ethical Hacking Certification Training Bundle $49.99 at the Mashable Shop
$351.00 Save $301.01 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Quickly inflate tires, pool floats, and more with a portable air pump for $40 off

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

TL;DR: As of May 13, score this HOTO Air Pump Pro portable air compressor and tire inflator on sale for $79.99 (reg. $119.99) for a limited time.

Have you ever found yourself with low tire pressure on a cold night? Or perhaps needed to inflate camping gear without any power source in sight? With the HOTO Air Pump Pro Portable Air Compressor, these common inconveniences can be a thing of the past. This week, the handy electric tool is on sale for just $79.99, a 33% discount from the usual price.

The HOTO Air Pump Pro is a versatile, lightweight (2.5 pounds), and highly portable air compressor that lets you quickly inflate tires, sports equipment, pool floats, and mattresses without the usual hassle. It has a soft-carry handle, giving you a quick, reliable air supply no matter where you are. HOTO also has a reputation for designing tools with slick, minimalist designs, and the Air Pump Pro is no exception.

The air pump features four presets: Car, Motorcycle, Bicycle, and Ball modes. It also has a 12V pump motor that's designed to inflate a tire in just five minutes. After you set the PSI, you don't have to worry about over-inflating, as it has an auto-stop feature.

The HOTO Air Pump Pro features three 2500mAh high-capacity lithium batteries that. When fully charged, it can fill up to fifteen under-inflated tires. The large LED display makes everything your progress easy to read (and provides some extra light if you're on a dark road). It comes with nozzles and adapters to fit a variety of use cases, too.

This inflator is ideal for anyone who drives a vehicle, bicyclists, off road adventurers, those who use floats for the pool or lake, paddle board enthusiasts, and more.

Invest in safety, convenience, and peace of mind when you pick up the HOTO Air Pump Pro portable air compressor and tire inflator for $79.99 (reg. $119.99).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: HOTO HOTO Air Pump Pro Portable Air Compressor/Tire Inflator $79.99 at the Mashable Shop
$119.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Out of memory? Get 1TB of cloud storage and save $170 on lifetime access

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

TL;DR: As of May 13, secure your documents and photos with a lifetime subscription to FolderFort's 1TB Storage Pro Plan for only $79.99.

Tired of your phone nagging you about hitting the storage limit every time you snap a photo? Consider that a wake-up call to bump up your cloud storage. But don't just blindly throw money at iCloud or Google Drive because your smartphone guilt-tripped you into it. There are better options that won't make you pay a monthly fee.

For starters, FolderFort is designed to function as your digital data keeper, securely storing all your files and media in the cloud. For a limited time, you can score a lifetime subscription to the service for a one-time payment of only $79.99.

With 1TB of ultra-secure storage, FolderFort lets you stash, manage, and share your digital life from anywhere, on any device — no pesky software installs necessary. Whether you're on your phone, tablet, or computer, it’s all accessible from your browser. Each file you upload is protected with top-notch encryption, making it virtually unreachable by anyone other than you.

Got a digital dump truck of data to upload? FolderFort can handle it all with lightning-fast transfer speeds, so you can move massive files in mere seconds. The platform is a breeze to navigate, letting you organize files effortlessly and create unlimited workspaces and folders for seamless management. Plus, you can bring in as many users as you like to these workspaces for free, and they each get a bonus 1GB of personal storage.

In case you ever run out of space, you can upgrade to a higher tier anytime you want, and increased storage will be provided in a snap. And should you feel the need to downgrade at any point, all you need to do is reach out to support, which is available 24/7.

Put an end to your storage woes with a lifetime subscription to a FolderFort 1TB Pro Plan, on sale for $79.99 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: FolderFort FolderFort 1TB Storage Pro Plan: Lifetime Subscription $79.99 at the Mashable Shop
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Categories: IT General, Technology

Make your job application shine with lifetime access to Canyon Pro for just $90

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

SAVE $594.01: As of May 13, you can get a Canyon Pro Plan lifetime subscription for only $89.99, down from the regular price of $684, and have a multi-tool, AI-enhanced job application platform by your side for life. That's a huge 86% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Canyon Canyon Pro Plan: Lifetime Subscription $89.99 at the Mashable Shop
$684.00 Save $594.01 Get Deal

Today's job market isn't like the one we had ten years ago — or even five. While change is inevitable with something as fluid as the employment market, many of us could use some supportive tools to help keep up with the competition. Canyon is a comprehensive platform designed to help streamline and optimize your job search from start to finish, and a lifetime subscription to the Pro Plan is majorly discounted today.

As of May 13, you can get a Canyon Pro Plan lifetime subscription for only $89.99, down from the regular price of $584, and have a multi-tool, AI-enhanced job application platform by your side for life. That's a huge $594.01 off, or an 86% discount.

Canyon uses modern tech and artificial intelligence to help optimize your resume, giving it a better chance to shine through the crowd. The app's AI resume builder suggests optimal wording, layout, and skills tailored to your industry and the specific jobs you're applying for. It even provides a score with tailored insights to see how well your resume is optimized and allows for unlimited resumes.

You can also autofill your job applications through this platform, which can save you crucial time and effort. To use this feature, you will have to download the Chrome extensions for free from the Google Chrome Store. It can then be used to autofill your info on almost any job application site.

To help you keep all of your job applications and resumes organized, there's a management feature that shows you where you've applied and tracks and prioritizes your job applications. And when you're ready to head in for an interview, there are AI-powered mock interviews specific to the job you're applying to that you can use to brush up on your interview skills.

Having this all-in-one job application tool at your disposal could be a game-changer in making the job hunt easier and less time-consuming.

Get a Canyon Pro Plan lifetime subscription for only $89.99 for a limited time only.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The 25 best shows on Hulu to delight and entertain you

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

Hulu has always had access to a deep library of beloved hits, but in the past few years, the streaming service has upped the ante. Making a splash with its fresh original series, Hulu has been racking up Golden Globes and Emmys like it's their job… which it kind of is, actually.

Showcasing unique, modern narratives, Hulu’s hits can be found in every genre, from sci-fi comedy to subtitled historical epic and everything in between. There’s something for everyone here, and to help you find your next binge, we’ve gathered together some of the best original and non-original shows Hulu has to offer. 

1. Shōgun Credit: Katie Yu / FX

Just when the streaming landscape was feeling empty of sweeping period epics, Shōgun entered the chat. With dizzying political intrigue, intricate attention to historical accuracy, shocking brutality in the name of ambition, and a stunning title sequence, this gripping adaptation of James Clavell’s bloody 1975 novel quickly became one of the best TV shows of 2024

SEE ALSO: 'Shōgun's writers love all the Blackthorne and Yabushige memes

English sailor John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) is marooned in 1600 feudal Japan, his fate now in the hands of the strategic daimyo Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada). Both men view each other as barbarians, but Blackthorne's ship full of guns offers Toranaga a new piece to play in his ongoing political chess match with his fellow regents. He'll need a way to communicate with Blackthorne first. Enter Lady Mariko (Anna Sawa), the whip-smart translator with a troubled family history who helps Blackthorne understand the high-stakes social expectations and longstanding political struggles he's unknowingly stumbled into. — Kristina Grosspietsch, Contributing Writer

How to watch: Shōgun is now streaming on Hulu.

2. Extraordinary Credit: Natalie Seery / Disney+

You might think you don't have space in your queue for another superhero show, but believe us, Extraordinary is not like the others. In a world where everyone gets a super power at the age of 18, Jen (Máiréad Tyers) is an outlier. She’s 25, and she’s completely ordinary. Her best friend can commune with the dead. Her stepsister is super strong. And her mother can control technology (which would be more helpful if she understood technology at all). But Jen never got her power, and she's miserable about it. Written by Emma Moran, Extraordinary is a smart, hilarious, irreverent comedy about not fitting in and the struggle to "find yourself." And also about a cat named Jizzlord.* — K.G.

How to watch: Extraordinary is now streaming on Hulu.

3. Only Murders in the Building

It’s got mystery; it’s got comedy; it’s got Steve Martin and Martin Short being criminally lovable — what more could you possibly need from a TV show? How about an endless revolving door of top-tier guest stars, tightly plotted scripts, and razor-sharp wit? Yes, please! 

Only Murders in the Building follows three misfits who live in the same Upper West Side building, the Arconia. Steve Martin is a lonely, has-been TV star. Martin Short is a former Broadway producer who can't scrape together his rent. Selena Gomez is a taciturn artist struggling to move past the traumas of her youth. The only thing that they have in common? A love of true crime! So when someone in their building kicks the bucket under suspicious circumstances, they do the only thing three directionless nobodies looking for a new hobby can do — they start a podcast! — K.G.

How to watch: Only Murders in the Building is now streaming on Hulu.

4. Life & Beth Credit: Scott McDermott / Hulu

Beth's (unfulfilling) NYC life is thrown into chaos when her mother unexpectedly dies. Seeking meaning, she heads back to where she grew up — Long Island — to confront the memories of her past… and spend time with a gentle, offbeat gardener (Michael Cera).

Amy Schumer's Life & Beth starts off leaning more into the drama half of comedy-drama, but as the series progresses, so does its humor. (Season 2 is downright silly!) This is an incredibly smart, sweet, and moving show based loosely on Schumer's own experiences in life and love. The cast is impeccable, Kevin Kane as Beth’s coke-addicted bf is a standout, and the laughs are well-earned and full of heart. — K.G.

How to watch: Life & Beth is now streaming on Hulu.

5. Fargo

Who doesn't love a little Midwest murder, huh? Based on the Coen Bros' 1996 film of the same name, Fargo was adapted into an anthology TV series by Noah Hawley — and each season hits harder than the last. From Minnesota to Missouri, you’ll get to know a range of fictional small-town killers and the detectives trying to catch them. With a cast that ranges from Kirsten Dunst to Billy Bob Thornton, Ewan McGregor to Carrie Coon, and Lamorne Morris to Jon Hamm, you’re guaranteed to get drawn into this addictive, unpredictable, larger-than-life (but surprisingly grounded) show. — K.G.

How to watch: Fargo is now streaming on Hulu.

6. The Bear Credit: FX

Jeremy Allen White became an instant star with his turn as Carmy, a tortured, talented chef who returns home to Chicago to take over his family’s Italian beef sandwich shop following the suicide of his brother. The Beef is a chaotic mess, and a far cry from Carmy's previous highfalutin gigs. Plus, each week there brings up a new, long-repressed childhood trauma he's been running from his whole life. Can he save his family’s restaurant? Is it even worth saving? 

Created by Christopher Storer, The Bear is a deeply stressful and deeply fascinating watch. It’s funny, it’s subtle, and it is so very, very Chicago (IYKYK). There’s a reason this dramedy quickly became one of the buzziest prestige watches of the 2020s and inspired everyone you know to say "Yes, chef!" — it's just that good. — K.G.

How to watch: The Bear is now streaming on Hulu.

7. Abbott Elementary Credit: Gilles Mingasson / Disney

Quinta Brunson struck sitcom gold with Abbott Elementary, an optimistic, The Office-style mockumentary series about the staff of an underfunded Philadelphia public school. Brunson shines as Janine Teagues, a chipper new teacher with a can-do attitude that exhausts her peers. Abbot Elementary is a lovable network hit that feels both fresh and nostalgic at the same time.

SEE ALSO: 'Abbott Elementary's talking heads have meaning all of their own

Like most of the best sitcoms, this cheerful comedy is all about character dynamics. The unflappable Barbara Howard (Sheryl Lee Ralph) thinks Janine is wasting her time by trying to change things at Abbott, while their boss, the deeply under-qualified Principal Ava Coleman (Janelle James), is determined to reject all of Janine's efforts. The rest of the outrageously charming cast (Lisa Ann Walter, Chris Perfetti, William Stanford Davis) either aid or discourage Janine at every turn, but she has an ally in Gregory (Tyler James Williams), a handsome substitute who isn't sure teaching is for him. But Janine just might be...!!! — K.G.

How to watch: Abbott Elementary is now streaming on Hulu.

8. Reservation Dogs

Get ready to meet your new favorite squad: a group of Oklahoma reservation teens (the Rez Dogs) who steal a chip delivery truck. They're trying to scramble together enough cash to go to California and fulfill the dream of their late friend, whose death has left them rattled. But not everything goes as planned, because this isn't an action show about heists and capers. This is a coming-of-age show about Native teens trying to find their place in the world and struggling to cope with a shocking loss. 

Thanks to its almost entirely Native team of talent, both behind the camera and on, the heart of this show is in its authentic relationships and its loving slice-of-life depiction of a world that doesn't often get the limelight: life on a reservation. The young actors who lead the series (Devery Jacobs, D'Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Lane Factor, and Paulina Alexis) are all simply magnetic, and the writing is sublime. Reservation Dogs is a warm, touching, and funny treat. — K.G.

How to watch: Reservation Dogs is now streaming on Hulu.

9. The Great 'The Great' is the perfect streaming series for a twist on history. Credit: Ollie Upton / Hulu

Does The Great faithfully follow the true story of Catherine the Great's infamous coup against her husband Tsar Peter III? No. Is it a hilarious, wacky interpretation of Catherine's story, complete with frog guns, the invention of bowling, slap fights aplenty and an imperial ton of vodka? Yes, absolutely yes.

The Great is a fantastic Hulu Original comedy series draped with all the trappings of a big budget period story, and it's well worth a watch for fans of writer Tony McNamara's Oscar-winning The Favourite. —Alexis Nedd, Senior Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: The Great is now streaming on Hulu.

10. Love, Victor Love, Victor is one of Hulu's best shows Credit: Gilles Mingasson / Hulu

This TV spinoff from 2018's queer romantic comedy Love, Simon stars Michael Cimino as Victor, a new student at Simon's high school. He's a star athlete, a model son, a great friend... and he's beginning to think he might be gay.

Love, Victor is a pitch-perfect high school drama with all the sweeping musical cues and whispered secrets that entails, and its connection to the original movie is incredibly sweet — Victor reaches out to Simon (now graduated) on Instagram for advice, and the franchise's OG romantic hero periodically offers him advice on how to deal with life at Creekwood High. — A.N.

How to watch: Love, Victor is now streaming on Hulu.

11. What We Do in the Shadows A hilarious mockumentary based on the movie with the same name from creators Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi. Credit: Russ Martin / FX

Season 1 of What We Do in the Shadows proved the show had what it took to live up to its screamingly funny predecessor; Season 2 left those comparisons behind altogether by expanding its universe and deepening its characters. For ten glorious weeks this spring, it was our pleasure to be invited into the day-to-day lives of these hopelessly clueless vampires as they tangled with ghosts and trolls, navigated chain emails, and "superb owl" parties, and, in one glorious instance, ran off to small-town Pennsylvania to reinvent themselves as a "human bartender" named Jackie Daytona to avoid paying back rent. (Okay, that last one was just Laszlo.) 

SEE ALSO: 'What We Do in the Shadows' Season 4 review: The undead really know how to live

But for all the vampires' quirky charms, the series' true secret weapon has turned out to be Guillermo, a put-upon familiar who is still, to his undying regret, still very human. Empowered with the discovery that he’s actually a vampire hunter by heritage, Guillermo realizes he doesn't have to take this crap anymore... but also maybe that he still kind of wants to. It's hard to blame him: Hanging with Nandor, Laszlo, Nadja, and Colin Robinson makes for a devilishly good time. — Angie Han, Deputy Entertainment Editor

How to watch: What We Do in the Shadows is now streaming on Hulu.

12. Pen15 A comedy for anyone who was super dorky as a kid. Credit: Alex Lombardi / Hulu

Pen15 is hard to watch, in a good way. It nails the awkwardness of middle school by having series creators Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle play fictionalized versions of themselves in 7th grade, surrounded by a cast of actors who are actually young enough to play their peers.

The inherent disconnect in watching made-up adults act like preteens heightens the comedy of its funnier moments, but also serves as a reminder that the drama of mid-puberty isn't any less important because it's experienced by children. Pen15 is cringey, sweet, hilarious, and wholly original comedy. — A.N.

How to watch: Pen15 is now streaming on Hulu.

13. Ramy Is Ramy a comedy? Is the show a drama? It's a little of both and so much more. Credit: Craig Blankenhorn / Hulu

Ramy Youssef’s self-titled TV debut is captivating, contemplative, and often uncomfortable.

The series tells the story of an Egyptian-American family — the father, mother, and sister as much as the eponymous son. For so much of it, Ramy focuses his energy on how to be a good Muslim, but it takes along time and a series of missteps with drugs and women for him to realize that he should learn to be a good person, too.

Though the best episodes almost barely involve Ramy (with Youssef himself behind the camera and script), there is a self-assured DNA throughout its two seasons, a voice that we hope to hear from much more. — Proma Khosla, entertainment reporter

How to watch: Ramy is now streaming on Hulu.

14. Friday Night Lights Credit: NBCUniversal via Getty Images

A common misconception in shows about sports is that you have to be interested in that sport to be interested in the show. This could not be less true, especially in the case of Friday Night Lights. Based on the movie that was based on the book of the same name, FNL is on its surface the story of a high school football team in Texas, but it's actually the story of a community, of all the individual triumphs and systemic failures that add up to the crazy little thing we call life.

Come to cry at Coach Taylor's epic pre-game speeches, root for the weaponized himbo Tim Riggins, or just marvel at the perfection that is Mrs. Coach's hair — all reactions are valid to the emotional glory that is Friday Night Lights. — A.N.

How to watch: Friday Night Lights is now streaming on Hulu.

15. Normal People A series for when you're ready for some feelings. Credit: Enda Bowe / Hulu

There's a reason that Normal Peoplebased on Sally Rooney's novel of the same name — left viewers so emotionally saturated (or perhaps bereft). The story of school sweethearts Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones) and Connell (Paul Mescal) and their years of noncommittally orbiting each other is just what the title says: normal. Whether it's a few months, two years, or close to the decade that these two characters experience, most viewers will recall some sort of sustained romantic turmoil in their own lives that mirrors this. The show explores intimacy as it manifests in romance, sex, conversation, and friendship and leaves us as beautifully heartbroken as if it were real. — P.K.

How to watch: Normal People is now streaming on Hulu.

16. Devs A streaming series that'll mess with your brain. Credit: Miya Mizuno/FX

Devs is what happens when you give filmmaker Alex Garland, the director of Sunshine and Ex Machina, the freedom to tell a story across eight hours. It’s a massive mindfuck of a sci-fi tale, following Lily Chan (Sonoya Mizuno) as she's drawn into a world of high-tech corporate espionage and international intrigue. It all starts when her boyfriend Sergei (Karl Glusman) joins a mysterious research unit at the tech company where they both work. Something strange is going on with the company's CEO and founder, Forest (Nick Offerman), and after Sergei disappears one day into his new job, Lily finds herself on an increasingly perilous journey to uncover some answers. — Adam Rosenberg, senior entertainment reporter

How to watch: Devs is now streaming on Hulu.

17. Atlanta Credit: Quantrell D. Colbert / FX

How does one describe Atlanta? It’s not like your modern serial sitcoms that follow a single narrative thread from episode to episode. The series starts with Earn (Donald Glover), who is broke and has no home or job, stepping up to help his cousin Alfred (Brian Tyree Henry) manage his rap career. But that basic description — which doesn’t even mention co-stars LaKeith Stanfield and Zazie Beetz — barely captures what Atlanta is actually about. Each vignette-ish episode presents a slice of life from the streets of the Georgia city, focusing on Earn and his friends, and often tackling social issues in intelligent and nuanced ways. — A.R.

How to watch: Atlanta is now streaming on Hulu.

18. Rick and Morty Credit: Hulu

This wildly popular animated comedy may draw attention for its Szechuan sauce-loving fans, but fans of Rick and Morty know that the show is way more than it seems. Its mile-a-minute jokes and irreverent...everything make it one of the funniest animated shows on TV, all the while delving into issues of loneliness, family, the validity of space various forms of space politics, and what happens when one asshole genius decides he's above the social contract. — A.N.

How to watch: Rick and Morty is now streaming on Hulu.

19. Monsterland Credit: Hulu

Each episode of Hulu original Monsterland takes place in a different, deeply haunted corner of the United States. Its horrors are both literal and metaphorical, with meat-eating mermaids and jazz vampires creeping around as extrapolations of the darkness hiding within humanity.

Kelly Marie Tran, Mike Colter, Taylor Schilling, and other big stars appear in Monsterland's anthologized episodes, though their stories challenge the audience to ask which characters are the monsters and which are simply human. — A.N.

How to watch: Monsterland is now streaming on Hulu.

20. Mrs. America Credit: FX

This FX miniseries dramatizes the 70's feminist attempts to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment and conservative spokeswoman Phyllis Schlafly's campaign to stop the ERA in its tracks.

Cate Blanchett plays Schlafly, whose conservative values clashed with the idea that political, civil, and legal rights should be equally extended to American men and woman. Rose Byrne plays legendary feminist activist Gloria Steinem, who supported the law. Mrs. America tells a heightened version of the incredible history of the ERA and the swaths of American women who fought for and opposed equal rights on the basis of sex and gender, and like many historical dramas is as entertaining as it is occasionally infuriating.— A.N.

How to watch: Mrs. America is now streaming on Hulu.

21. Woke Credit: Hulu

In Woke, Lamorne Morris plays a Black cartoonist whose perspective on life turns upside down after a run-in with the police forces him to reckon with the realities of racism and complacency. His character Keef Knight's growing wokeness is literally illustrated by his newfound ability to see inanimate objects as animated voices that berate him for ignoring the social influences that have affected his life and help him move towards greater consciousness in this "bold, irreverent" comedy. — A.N.

How to watch: Woke is now streaming on Hulu.

22. The Bold Type Credit: Freeform

Listen, is The Bold Type a practical depiction of what it's like to work for a women's magazine? No. Is it a fun adventure rife with unpredictable plots, romance, and enough fantastic outfits to drive any reasonable person to attempt a complete closet overhaul? Hell, yes. The Bold Type paints New York's aspiring writers in bright colors and offers a glossy alternate universe where writing for the dot com is one small step away from a corner office and expense account. — A.N.

How to watch: The Bold Type is now streaming on Hulu.

23. You're the Worst Credit: Getty Images

It’s almost too perfect that FXX’s existentially dark romantic comedy takes place in the bleached sunny scenery of Los Angeles.

Jimmy (Chris Geere) and Gretchen (Aya Cash) are not known to their respective friends for being outgoing or even likable, but they meet at a wedding and hit it off. The series follows their relationship from hot sex to mortified attachment, blind panic, and then some. Stephen Falk and his writers create a twisted, raucous take on comedies about adult friendship, with Kether Donohue and Desmin Borges superbly rounding out the cast (Borges' Edgar and his PTSD plotline is some of the best black comedy writing of the decade).

Come for the cringe, stay for Sunday Funday, and just skip to Season 4 to maximize your enjoyment. — P.K.

How to watch: You're the Worst is now streaming on Hulu.

24. Bob's Burgers Credit: FOX Image Collection via Getty Images

I consider it a tremendous privilege — nay, a tremendous honor! — to convince anyone who isn't already watching Bob's Burgers to watch Bob's Burgers.

Originally conceived as an adult series about a family of cannibals (seriously), Loren Bouchard's beloved animated sitcom follows a family of five struggling to keep their restaurant afloat. Across 14 seasons (and counting), Bob, Linda, Tina, Gene, and Louise have faced all sorts of restaurant-related quandaries, ranging from a persnickety health inspector to an unexpected case of meat fraud. But more than an underdog tale of a small business succeeding against the odds, Bob's Burgers has developed a unique knack for capturing what it means to really be a family in the modern age.

SEE ALSO: Every 'Bob's Burgers' Thanksgiving episode ever, ranked

A complex and touching blend of compassion and exhaustion, this series has become the go-to comfort watch for many. Turn on one episode, any episode, and you'll see why. The characters are supremely likable, the world feels fully lived in, and the one-liners will follow you wherever you go. — Alison Foreman, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Bob's Burgers is now streaming on Hulu.

25. The Golden Girls Credit: NBCUniversal via Getty Images

Classic shows are classics for a reason, but The Golden Girls has more reasons than most. Its jokes hold up decades years later, its theme song is iconic, and Betty White, Bea Arthur, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty's legendary on-screen chemistry is the gold (no pun intended) standard to which all other sitcom friendships are judged.

The Golden Girls took seven excellent seasons to prove its television thesis that older characters, especially women, could be funny, emotionally developing, and romantically involved stars of their own show, and looking at modern hits like Grace and Frankie, it's easy to see its impact on TV today. — A.N.

How to watch: The Golden Girls is now streaming on Hulu.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu Watch Now

UPDATE: May. 10, 2024, 1:22 p.m. EDT This list was updated to reflect the most current streaming options.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Our 8 favorite noise-cancelling headphones that actually work

Mashable - Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:00
Overview Best for adjustable ANC Bose 700 headphones $379 at B&H Photo Video Shop now Most comfortable headphones Bose QuietComfort Ultra $429 at Amazon Shop now Best for audiophiles Sony WH-1000XM5 $398 at Amazon Shop Now Best for bass lovers Sony ULT Wear $199.99 at Amazon Shop Now Best noise-cancelling earbuds for Apple users Apple AirPods Pro $189 at Amazon (save $60) Shop Now Best sounding earbuds Sony WF-1000XM5 $299.99 at Best Buy Shop Now Best mid-range earbuds Beats Studio Buds+ $169.95 at Amazon Shop Now Best budget earbuds Anker Soundcore Life P3i $49.99 at Amazon Shop Now

Whether you work from home, find yourself on an airplane more often than not, or simply want to turn down the volume of the outside world, noise-cancelling headphones can be a godsend.

Even the best value headphones can feel lacking if they don't come equipped with halfway decent noise cancellation. Besides, there are simply too many headphones on the market (our testing pool only gets bigger day by day) for you to pay hundreds only to get subpar ANC. If you're spending some cash on noise-cancelling headphones, you should feel more than happy with your investment.

SEE ALSO: The best MacBooks: Which Apple laptop would we buy in 2024?

To help you pick the right set, Mashable editors and reviewers tested dozens of headphones and earbuds and picked out the best noise-cancelling headphones of 2024 (so far).

Do noise-cancelling headphones actually work?

There's a big difference between outside noise being blocked and music simply being loud enough to drown it out. There's also a difference between true active noise cancellation and hissing or white noise that some headphones rely on to "block out" sound.

Active noise-cancelling headphones electronically cover up the sounds coming from your surroundings by using internal microphones that listen to what's happening in the world around you, then invert the noise and send it to the speakers. The idea is that both the output and the input will cancel out, leaving you with near-silence. Over-ear headphones can also create a tight seal around your ears that adds another layer of sound blocking.

If you've tried a pair of noise-cancelling headphones before and haven't been impressed, don't be discouraged. It is possible to get headphones that quiet the hum of people talking around you, or noises from the street that invade your home office. While we haven't found the headphones yet that completely silent the world around you, we've found ones that have gotten pretty dang close.

SEE ALSO: Should you sign up for Peacock?

In the past, not many earbuds featured active noise cancellation that was comparable to over-ear headphones, but newer iterations like the AirPods Pro and Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds hold their own in the ANC space. However, even these earbuds can't quite get the same seal that headphones can, so if you're looking for maximum silence, you might be happier with over-ear headphones. However, if you want to cut down on the bulk, earbuds make for great alternatives.

What are the best noise-cancelling headphones to buy?

Bose and Sony are both top names when it comes to any type of audio, but especially when it comes to noise cancellation. Both brands feature industry-leading ANC on top of superb sound quality. There are also some other brands and models worth checking out, so if you want to tune out ambient sound, we've laid everything out for you below.

Best for adjustable ANC: Bose 700 Bose 700 headphones $379.00 at Amazon
Shop Now

Read our full review of the Bose 700 headphones.

Who it's for:

For some people, active noise cancellation might be too intense. Sometimes, you need a little ambient noise. Maybe you're not a fan of this lack of awareness, or maybe it actually causes physical discomfort. That doesn't mean you have to forego ANC altogether — the Bose 700 headphones offer 10 different levels of active noise cancellation (as well as a transparent mode), so you can adjust based on what feels right for you.

Why we picked this:

One of the biggest cons of the Bose 700s is the cost, as Mashable tech reporter Alex Perry noted in his review. However, these headphones came out in 2019, and they're being phased out in place of Bose's new QuietComfort Ultra (another pick on this list). That means while they're still around, you can get top-notch adjustable ANC for $379, and often for less — they were on sale for a flat $300 following Black Friday and have dropped even further in 2024.

They won't be as comfortable for all-day wear as Bose's QuietComfort headphones, but if the best ANC is your priority above all else, these headphones are likely worth the trade off for you. If you are interested in buying them, you'll want to act sooner rather than later. Already, we've seen them sell out at Amazon, and once at Best Buy (though they appear to be back in stock and on clearance at the time of writing). Our next pick, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones, were recently released to replace the Bose 700s.

Battery life: Up to 20 hours | App-connected: Yes | Colors: Black

Most comfortable headphones: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones $429.00 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

Over-ear headphones can be great for blocking out noise, but less great for comfort. If you're someone who wants to wear your headphones all day, the Bose QuietComfort line was made for you. We've previously tested the QuietComfort 35 IIs and the QuietComfort 45s, and the QuietComfort Ultra was easily the most comfortable of the three. They're also the most expensive at $429, so be ready to pay for that comfort.

Why we picked this:

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones up the ante on the long-popular line from the brand, giving you all day wear with spatial audio. They're also supremely comfortable.

We wore these headphones for hours — on flights, with glasses on, all day — and they wore through it all without squeezing or feeling heavy. Even more importantly, they sound incredible, complete with Bose's new immersive spatial audio, which gives you a concert-like experience when listening to music, all the while blocking out the world around you.

We occasionally need to turn the headphones on a couple times for them to connect, but their multipoint pairing works better than past QuietComfort headphones (with the QC 45s, we needed to disconnect one of the two connected devices from the app to avoid annoying skips in the audio). We were also surprised that these headphones don't support passive playback, especially for their price point (which is still $100 less than the Apple AirPods Max at full price).

Still, if you're willing to live with those minor annoyances, you will be rewarded with excellent ANC on the most comfortable noise-cancelling headphones we've tested yet.

Battery life: 24 hours | App-connected: Yes | Colors: Black, sandstone, white

Best for audiophiles: Sony WH-1000XM5 Sony WH-1000XM5 $398.00 at Amazon
Shop Now

Check out our full review of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.

Who it's for:

If you want good ANC, but especially value clear and well-rounded sound, these are your headphones. Whether you really like to blast your music, or just want to hear the lows, highs, and mids of a song, the WH-1000XM5s are the headphones on our list most likely to deliver.

Why we picked this:

Sony's flagship noise-cancelling headphones produce a balanced sound that let your music shine, while giving you enough ANC to block ambient noise.

Here's what Mashable Deputy Reviews Editor Miller Kern had to say about listening to Brandi Carlile’s “Right on Time” on the XM5 headphones: "The vocals and instruments all got to shine, and the headphones made it feel like I was there in the studio. These are probably the best-sounding headphones I’ve ever tried." That audio quality, combined with their comfort and effective noise cancelling, are what earned them a Mashable Choice Award.

Their portability factor could be a little better — the ear cups don't fold in — but chances are, you'll want to be listening to them most of the time, anyway. When you are on the go, the microphone is another standout feature. Kern relayed that even on a walk home in New York City, she could hear who she was calling perfectly, and be heard herself without any background noise getting in the way. As an added bonus, they have a battery life that beats the Bose QC Ultras by a good six hours.

Battery life: 30 hours | App-connected: Yes | Colors: Black, navy, silver

Best for bass lovers: Sony ULT Wear Sony ULT Wear headphones $198.00 at Amazon
Shop Now

Check out our full review of the Sony ULT Wear headphones.

Who it's for:

If you don't need a fancy custom equalizer to know you like punching up the bass ten out of ten times, the new Sony ULT Wear headphones are made for you. Our reviewer praised these headphones for offering balanced sound and powerful bass, a rare combo. These are also a great pick for those looking for a slightly cheaper alternative to the WH-1000XM5s.

Why we picked this:

Sony just released the new ULT line in April, and considering the price, they're some of the best Sony headphones ever made. They're designed for anyone who's a fan of bass. In addition to the equalizer in the app, the headphones have a dedicated ULT button that lets you bump up the bass on demand. The 40-millimeter driver keeps it sounding clear and not crispy, making these headphones a worthy competitor to the WH-1000XM5s, our top pick for the best sounding noise-cancelling headphones.

When testing the two headphones side by side, Mashable's Miller Kern found that while both headphones sounded great, "the ULT Wear’s sound was fuller and felt more like surround sound. And even on the standard setting, the bass sounded richer on the ULTs." We still stand by the WH-1000XM5s as a better pick for audiophiles, but Kern makes a strong case for buying these over the XM5s. "[To] the average person, I’d say the ULT Wears are the winners — especially for those who prioritize bass and fullness in their audio."

For $100 cheaper, these are a more than fair alternative to Sony's flagship headphones.

Battery life: 30 hours | App-connected: Yes | Colors: Black, off-white

Best noise-cancelling earbuds for Apple users: Apple AirPods Pro Apple AirPods Pro $189.99 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $59.01 Shop Now

Read our full review of the Apple AirPods Pro (Generation 2).

Who it's for:

If you want ANC without all the bulk, the AirPods Pro are small, discreet, and (thanks to the their long-awaited USB-C charging port) easier to charge. Though headphones typically provide superior ANC, these AirPods have impressive noise cancellation for a pair of buds. You'll probably enjoy them a little extra if you have other devices within the Apple ecosystem.

Why we picked this:

Are they pricey? Absolutely. Is their ANC worth it? Here's what Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder had to say: "These are the first pair of earbuds I'd actually consider taking on an airplane (instead of my much larger and clunkier over-ear headphones)." Though these aren't the only Apple headphones with ANC, we highly prefer these over the AirPods Max, which we think are way overpriced (they're double the cost of these Pros) and don't have the performance to justify that price tag.

Other than that killer ANC, AirPods are great for travel because they take up minimal space in your carry on, they sound great, and they have a Conversation Awareness mode which automatically lowers the volume when you're talking, so placing a drink order is easy as can be. And with their new USB-C port, you can charge them directly from an iPhone 15.

To get a perfectly snug fit to maximize your listening experience, you'll have your choice between four ear tips. Apple claims these buds support lossless audio, but as of right now, only with the Apple Vision Pro, so you'd have to shell out an additional $3,500 for that experience.

Battery life: 6 hours (up to 30 hours with charging case) | App-connected: No | Colors: White

Best sounding earbuds: Sony WF-1000XM5 Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds $298.00 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

Love high-quality audio but not so fond of the feeling of headphones over your ears? These Sony earbuds have got you covered on both fronts, all the while providing some pretty impressive active noise cancellation.

Why we picked this:

These earbuds deliver a rich, well-balanced sound profile, without the weight of over-ear headphones. The ear tips material are not the usual silicone found on AirPods and other earbuds, but a more foam-like material you'd find on an ear plug, allowing for all-day wear that creates a firm seal without sacrificing comfort.

The Sony companion app allows for a ton of customization, including touch controls, paired devices, and of course, an equalizer. Those who feel a bit intimated by a completely custom equalizer will appreciate the "Find Your Equalizer" feature, which gives you two rounds of options to select from while listening to music to narrow down what settings actually sound the best. Once you've made your selection, a final before and after sound test confirms you're happy with the mix, making it easier than ever to get the most out of your music.

We also enjoyed the Adaptive Sound Control, which switches the earbuds automatically from noise cancelling to ambient sound transparency modes based on whether you're sitting or walking around (settings that can be adjusted). Multipoint pairing also lets you switch between two devices with next to zero lag. If you hate using transparency mode because of how it amplifies outside sounds, you can adjust that, too. Admittedly, these earbuds are pricey, but we think the premium features and quality sound justifies the cost for someone who wants a lot out of their earbuds.

Battery life: 7-8 hours per charge (24 hours with case) | App-connected: Yes | Colors: Black, silver

Best mid-range earbuds: Beats Studio Buds+ Beats Studio Buds+ $169.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

We don't think these earbuds perform quite as well as the newest AirPods Pro, but they also cost $80 less. If you're trying to get quality ANC earbuds for under $200 (but are willing to spend more than $50), then the Beats Studio Buds+ are the way to go. Plus, with Google Fast Pair support, they're better suited for Android users than the AirPods Pro.

Why we picked this:

We love a good dupe, what can we say? While these Beats aren't a one-to-one match for the AirPods Pro, they give a lot of the same basic functionality at a much more affordable price. And at six hours per charge with ANC, they match the Pro's battery life exactly.

As for how they sound, these are Beats headphones, so expect the bass to come through nice and clear. They're not too bass heavy though, and they give plenty of balance on higher frequencies. Their ANC definitely isn't at the same level as the Pros, so having a well-rounded sound is nice, as playing music in tandem with ANC will give you your best shot at blocking out the world around you.

You'll have your choice between four colorways, including black, silver, ivory, and transparent. During our testing, we also found these earbuds fit more comfortably than the AirPods Pro, so if you tend to have trouble getting AirPods to stay in your ears, these are a better option for you. If you can, we recommend waiting for these earbuds to go on sale — you can often find them for $149.95 or $129.95.

Battery life: 6 hours with ANC, 9 without (27 hours hours with charging case) | App-connected: No | Colors: Black, silver, white, transparent, pink

Best budget earbuds: Anker Soundcore Life P3i Anker Soundcore Life P3i $49.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

If you're on a tight budget but still want to enjoy noise cancelling, the Anker Soundcore Life P3i earbuds offer a surprisingly solid performance. Don't expect elite ANC, but these affordable earbuds don't require too much of a sacrifice in sound quality.

Why we picked this:

We're going to start with the major hitch of these earbuds: switching between devices sucks. They don't have multipoint pairing, and if you want to use them with your phone after using them with your laptop, you have to manually disconnect them (or in our experience, sometimes outright unpair them), with your laptop first. It's easily their biggest flaw, and most obvious indicator of their price point.

With that out of the way, these earbuds still have a lot going for them. For starters, they cost $50, and can often be found on sale for even less. For that price, you get earbuds that are comfortable to wear all day, have a custom equalizer in the app plus 21 presets (we're fans of the Treble Booster), customizable touch controls for each earbud, and a battery life that outdoes the Apple AirPods Pro. You won't have extras like spatial audio, and the ANC leans on background hiss more than premium models, but not terribly so. For a pair of $50 earbuds, we're impressed, and we recommend them for anyone who doesn't want to shell out $100 plus for a pair of noise-cancelling earbuds.

Battery life: 7 hours with ANC, 8.5 without (36 hours with charging case) | App-connected: Yes | Colors: Black, white

How we tested the best noise-cancelling headphones and earbuds

Every single pair of headphones we included on this list was hands-on tested by a Mashable reporter or editor. What exactly makes a good noise-cancelling headphone? Here's what we considered: the effectiveness of active noise cancellation in relation to price, comfort, battery life, audio quality, and any premium features offered (like spatial audio) and how those features perform.

We pulled these recommendations from our existing pool of headphone reviews and from hands-on testing performed specifically for this buying guide. A couple of options that didn't make our updated list include the AirPods Max, which do have good ANC and sound quality, but also a less impressive feature to price ratio, especially compared to newer options from Sony and Bose. We also tested the JBL Tour One M2 headphones, and while we appreciated their excellent multipoint pairing, battery life, and balanced sound, we didn't find that their noise cancellation matched up with similarly priced headphones.

As of Jan. 2024, we removed the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones from this list not because they're not excellent headphones (they are), but because they're an older model that's harder to find in-stores and online these days. We're in the process of testing the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e headphones to see how they stack up. And as of April 2024, we've added the Anker Soundcore Life P3i earbuds, Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds, and Sony ULT Wear headphones to our list of recommendations.

Categories: IT General, Technology

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

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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
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