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'3 Body Problem' finale: 8 burning questions we have for Season 2

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 10:02

After eight mind-bending episodes, Netflix's 3 Body Problem has come to a close for Season 1. While the finale answered many of the complex questions fuelling the series, showrunners David Benioff, D.B. Weiss, and Alexander Woo left plenty unsolved for Season 2.

What plan to save the world will Saul Durand (Jovan Adepo) come up with as a newly minted wallfacer? What will happen to Will Downing's (Alex Sharp) brain, floating through space? We saw Tatiana Haas (Marlo Kelly) putting that alien VR headset on, but what exactly did the San-Ti want to show her? Will Auggie Salazar (Eiza González) remain atoning for her weaponised nanotechnology or will she return to her bestie Jin Cheng (Jess Hong) to help save the world?

SEE ALSO: '3 Body Problem' ending: What does Dr Ye Wenjie's 'joke' about God really mean?

Let's dig into the burning questions we have for 3 Body Problem Season 2, in no particular order, because everything is chaos. While you will find spoilers for the ending of Season 1, importantly, you won't find spoilers in here from Liu Cixin's books, on which the series is based on. So you're safe to read on if you haven't read them!

1. What is the San-Ti's actual plan? Sea Shimooka as the San-Ti AI warrior in "3 Body Problem." Credit: Netflix

OK, so we know the technologically advanced alien race known as the San-Ti hail from an unstable three-body star system four light years from Earth, where, according to the San-Ti AI warrior (Sea Shimooka), "There will eventually be a cataclysm from which we cannot recover. Our planet will be ripped in half. Or pulled into one of the suns. Or expelled into space forever." They responded to Dr Ye Wenjie's (Rosalind Chao) transmission in the '70s, decided Earth sounded like the perfectly stable new home, built a 1000-ship-strong fleet and hit the intergalactic road — leaving some of the San-Ti behind, which is where the "if one of us survives, we all survive'" mantra comes from.

Working with the Earth-Trisolaris Organization (ETO), the San-Ti then became afraid of humanity through their discovery of deception while discussing Little Red Riding Hood with oil magnate Mike Evans (Jonathan Pryce). They then threatened to kill humanity's scientific progress dead, scaring the shit out of everyone with their sophon sentient supercomputer and worldwide surveillance. But what's their actual plan when they finally get to Earth in 400 years? Will they enslave the human race, destroy it entirely, or come to the negotiating table?

Featured Video For You How Did We Get Here: Into the Unknown

In episode 4, Wenjie tells the ETO she genuinely believes the San-Ti are coming to teach humanity "how to survive and thrive". But the aliens are perplexed by humanity, claiming they have "ceased to be afraid" as a species. "You contacted another planet. Is this the act of a timid species?" the San-Ti asks Evans in episode 3. "A lack of fear leads to extinction. If your ancestors had followed the fearless, you would not exist. Humanity must learn to fear again."

This all connects with questions about the San-Ti and their control of technology on Earth. Why don't they take over Earth's technology 24/7? This powerful alien race took over every screen and device on the planet for a threatening message and skyward demonstration of might, yet then allow our TV broadcasts, internet feeds, and personal devices to function as normal — they could send us right back to the Dark Ages with a thought. Also, the San-Ti let the all-important Earthly defence strategy, the launch of Will's brain into space, continue. Are the San-Ti not quite sure what they could get out of this, or are they indifferent? The answer to this one may lie in the book, which has a slightly more detailed explanation of what the sophons are capable of.

2. Will the San-Ti find Will's brain and will they rebuild him? Where there's a Will... Credit: Netflix

In the major sacrifice of the season, Will signed his brain over to Jin's sadly failed Project Staircase (but refused to pledge allegiance to humanity itself). Unfortunately, during the mission, one of the cables keeping the space sail in place detached and the probe, with Will's brain inside it, was sent off course, now doomed to drift through space. But will the capsule eventually reach its destination, intercepting the San-Ti? And will they do exactly as the scientists expect them to do with their advanced technology: rebuild him in some form? Only time and space will tell.

3. What will Saul come up with to save the world? Any ideas? Credit: Netflix

In what might be the most "no pressure!" job ever, Saul was made a wallfacer in the finale of Season 1, putting a target on his back and the fate of the world in his hands with no restrictions. But the thing is, he's not allowed to speak about his plans, write them down, or use any form of technology to realise a strategy to save humanity — everything must happen within the recesses of his mind. If you want to know why Saul is chosen, it's all hidden in this scene. But what will he come up with? We're given a clue as to how Saul could approach his planning in the finale, when Detective Da Shi (Benedict Wong) takes Saul and Jin to see the insect population booming — maybe "bugs", as the San-Ti call Earthlings, have more power and resilience than they're given credit for. And remember, there are two other wallfacers: distinguished veteran Professor Leyla Ariç (Salem Hadeed) and military historian General Hou Boulin (Clem Cheung). What will they come up with in their mind palaces?

4. What did Tatiana see in the game? Tatiana finally got her own VR headset. Credit: Netflix

In the finale, we see Earth-Trisolaris Organization member Tatiana in hiding, living relatively off-grid in the woods, following the raid on the alien-worshipping group in London. In episode 7, Tatiana is contacted by the San-Ti through her TV set, and told she's not done yet. In the finale, returning from her Tesco grocery shop, she finds her door open and a VR headset with her name branded on it awaiting her inside, with a card reading, "If one of us survives, we all survive." It's the first time we've seen Tatiana put the headset on herself, though she knows very well what to expect for players. But what exactly do the San-Ti want to show Tatiana? Is she being asked to rehydrate the masses like other players, or is there something more the alien race wants to brief her on?

5. Will Auggie return or will she stay atoning for Panama? Auggie was devastated by the Judgment Day attack. Credit: Netflix

Following the Panama Canal nanofibre ship massacre in episode 5, Auggie hasn't been doing great. The first time her own groundbreaking technology was deployed at scale, it was used as a slicing weapon against a literal boatload of people, including children, caught up in the attack on Evans' ship Judgment Day. Auggie did stick around long enough to care for Will during his final weeks and joined Wade's project to help her best friend Jin create a space sail for the probe to soar through the universe, but when Will's brain is signed over for the project, she packs up and leaves. In the finale, we see her helping a community beset by dysentery to filter water using her nanotechnology. It's clear she's on a mission to atone for Judgment Day, but will she stay there? Or will she eventually return to help Saul and Jin come up with a way to protect the planet?

6. Who is Wade, really, and what will he do after the San-Ti threat? Wade had a rather unpleasant chat with the San-Ti. Credit: Netflix

Leading the military response to the San-Ti, Thomas Wade (Liam Cunningham) is quite the mysterious one, with separate plans to develop hibernation technology to be present when the San-Ti arrive in 400 years. It's not really made clear who Wade reports to — in episode 1, Da Shi explains Wade's managers as "governments...most of them" but in episode 5, Auggie points out that no one really knows who Wade works for. All we do know is he runs the Black Palace, the headquarters of the Strategic Intelligence Agency (SIA) in London — an agency that doesn't exist beyond the story, but seems like a play on the UK's Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

In the finale, Wade is directly threatened by the San-Ti during his flight, when the aliens cut the technology of his plane and speak through the plane's screens. "We hope to meet you if your hibernation technology works," the San-Ti tells Wade, praising him as a strong leader. “We want you to know there will be a place for you when we arrive. You are part of our plan." But Wade’s conversation with the San-Ti turns dark when he suddenly sees his own countdown and the warrior appears in his own space and terrifies him with a vision of Wade with gouged-out eyes. What do the San-Ti want from their incessant enemy?

7. What happened to the moon base plans? Raj might be off to the moon. Credit: Netflix

Remember in episode 6, when Wade made reference to the fact that Earth was building a base on the moon? We're keen to see what happened to that, and whether we'll see a moon base in Season 2. Wade tells Raj Varma (Saamer Usmani) the plan is to build a base on the lava plain Mare Imbrium in a giant crater, where larger ships will be assembled, ready for the San-Ti's 1000-strong fleet.

8. What do the aliens actually look like?

Mashable's Sam Haysom dug into this one.

How to watch: 3 Body Problem is now streaming on Netflix.

Categories: IT General, Technology

'3 Body Problem' ending: What does Dr Ye Wenjie's 'joke' about God really mean?

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 10:02

The issue with a show as mysterious as Netflix's 3 Body Problem is you want to know the answers now — and that feeling gets amplified with the knowledge we may have to wait another year to get them.

One of the biggest cliffhangers David Benioff, D.B. Weiss, and Alexander Woo's sci-fi epic leaves us on is actually a two-parter: What was the real meaning behind the "joke" told by Dr Ye Wenjie (Rosalind Chao) to Saul Durand (Jovan Adepo) on the park bench in episode 7? And in what way could it help with Saul being made a "wallfacer" in the finale, one of three people tasked with plotting their own secret, internal scheme to best the approaching aliens?

SEE ALSO: '3 Body Problem' finale: 8 burning questions we have for Season 2

We've poured over the clues to try and work it out. The first part of this article analyses the show itself, while the final part contains spoilers from Liu Cixin's Remembrance of Earth's Past novel trilogy, on which the show is based (we'll mark it with a spoiler warning in case you want to bow out then).

What's the "joke" that Dr Ye Wenjie tells Saul?

In episode 7, Wenjie is released from custody, exposed as the spiritual leader of the alien-worshipping Earth-Trisolaris Organization (ETO). Now that she knows the aliens she initially contacted all those years ago aren't coming to play nice, Wenjie contacts Saul and tells him a long, strange joke about Albert Einstein and God. Here's the joke, in full:

"So Einstein dies. He finds himself in heaven, and he has his violin. He's overjoyed. He loves his violin more than physics. Even more than women. He's excited to find out how well he can play in heaven. He imagines he'll be pretty damn good. So he starts tuning up, and the angels rush at him.

'What are you doing?' they say.

'I'm getting ready to play.'

'Don't do that. God won't like it. He's a saxophonist.'

So Einstein stops. He doesn't play. But it's difficult. He loves music. And there's actually not much to do in heaven. And sure enough, from high above, he hears the saxophone. He's playing 'Take the 'A' Train', do you know that one? Einstein knows it too. And he thinks, I'm going to do it. I'm going to play with him. We're going to sound great together. So he starts playing 'Take the 'A' Train'. The saxophone stops, and God appears. He marches over to Einstein and kicks him in the balls, which hurts, even in heaven. Then he smashes Einstein's beloved violin to bits. Eternity without music. Heaven has become hell for Einstein. And as he writhes on the ground, holding his smashed balls, an angel comes over and says: 'We warned you: Never play with God.'"

Not exactly a rib-tickler, is it? But the point of the joke clearly isn't to make Saul laugh. There's a hidden meaning in there. The question is, what?

What does Wenjie's joke mean? Credit: Netflix

Once Wenjie realises the aliens are now afraid of humanity and want to wipe us out, she clearly makes a plan.

"I'm an old woman, whose old beliefs have led us down this terrible path," she says in episode 6, addressing the aliens directly. "But I still have an idea or two left in me. And centuries from now there may well be a fair fight — or no fight at all."

The next time we see Wenjie in episode 7, shortly before she calls Saul to meet, she looks at two books (both of which are actual, real books): K.H. Erickson's Game Theory: A Simple Introduction, and Michael Bodin's Fermi's Paradox: Cosmology and Life. Aside from the joke itself, these books are the biggest clues we have as to what Wenjie might be trying to communicate to Saul. The first book on Game Theory is essentially a social science book about strategy, while the second book addresses the question of life in the universe. In short, Fermi's Paradox poses a simple question: If there are other species in the universe, why haven't we encountered them yet?

Hidden somewhere in Wenjie's joke, it would seem, is a strategy for either fighting the aliens, or avoiding a fight with them altogether. Could the God in Wenjie's joke be a metaphor for the aliens travelling across the universe to destroy us? If that's the case, maybe Einstein represents humanity. By playing music, he alerts God to his presence. Is the joke a warning for humans not to draw attention to themselves? But if that's the case, isn't it a bit too late for that?

Warning: The following section contains spoilers from Liu Cixin's novel trilogy. We've tried to keep them light, but they will likely spoil some elements of the show's future seasons.

What do Liu Cixin's books tell us?

For anyone who can't wait, the answer to the joke lies in Liu Cixin's second novel in the trilogy, titled The Dark Forest. The title itself actually forms part of the answer. "The Dark Forest" is essentially a possible solution to Fermi's Paradox, suggesting that the reason we haven't encountered other alien races is because the universe is like a forest at night — everyone stays silent in order to remain unnoticed. Alien races don't broadcast their locations because they don't want other races to detect them — and potentially attack them.

With this in mind, Wenjie's "joke" suddenly makes a lot more sense. Einstein playing the trumpet and incurring the wrath of God isn't a warning — it's the dark forest analogy in code. A social strategy answer to Fermi's Paradox, and possibly something Saul could use in his role as wall-facer.

How to watch: 3 Body Problem is now streaming on Netflix.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get Beats Studio Buds+ True Wireless earbuds for just $99.99

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 10:00

TL;DR: Through April 2, these new, open-box Beats Studio Buds+ True Wireless Noise-Cancelling Earbuds are on sale for just $99.99 (reg. $169).

There are a lot of listening devices on the market. However, they weren't all created equal. If you'd like a more elevated audio experience, going with a trusted name is probably a good idea. Beats was co-created by none other than Dr. Dre to offer consumers a superb, premium way to listen to music.

These Beats Studio Buds+ True Wireless Earbuds are considered a new, open-box item. New, open-box products are generally extra stock from stores and might have some extra handling shown on the packaging. But the beauty of this category of products is that, even though new, they come at a reduced price of $99.99.

These Beats earbuds feature active noise cancellation. That means you can put them in and play your tunes while tuning the world out. The one-touch pairing makes connecting your devices seamless.

These Beats are designed with a custom acoustic platform and can provide up to 36 hours of sound when used with the included charging case. The case is small enough to keep in your pocket, making commuting and traveling with your gear much easier.

The days will be even more efficient with Dual-beam microphones that target your voice and filter external noise for incredible call performance. The on-ear control even allows you to manage calls and skip songs.

Don't settle for a sub-par listening experience.

Get these new, open-box Beats Studio Buds+ True Wireless Noise-Cancelling Earbuds on sale for just $99.99 (reg. $169).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

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Categories: IT General, Technology

Save an extra $20 on this stock screener

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 10:00

TL;DR: Through April 2, get Tykr Stock Screener for life for an extra $20 off with code GET20, making it just $99.97.

Investing in the stock market might feel like gambling, but it doesn't necessarily have to be. If you do your research, you can make more informed investments and have a better idea of where your money will go. Nothing can guarantee an investment will pay off, but educational tools like Tykr Stock Screener could help you find the least risky places to invest. A lifetime Premium Plan is an extra $20 off through April 2.

Your first in a long line of wise investments

Tykr is an educational investment tool that you could use to research potential investments. Instead of going in blind, you can use Tykr to get a summary of 30,000+ US and international stocks that includes helpful information like potential risks, rewards, and pricing history. It's up to you to make the final call on whether you should invest or not, but measurements for a stock's margin of safety could help you get a good sense of whether or not buying a few shares is worth the risk for the reward. 

The stock market is dynamic, and so is Tykr. That's why it doesn't stop at traditional markets. Tykr also covers 1,600 ETFs and over 1,800 cryptocurrencies. And it does all of this with completely open-source calculations. There's no magic or behind-the-scenes trickery. You can check the formulae for yourself, but Tykr might save you a whole lot of time. 

Investment research for 30,000+ stocks

Make informed investments without needing to do all the legwork researching each stock yourself. 

If you use code GET20 by April 2 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can get a Tykr Stock Screener Premium Lifetime Subscription for $99.97.

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Tykr Tykr Stock Screener: Premium Plan Lifetime Subscription $99.97 at the Mashable Shop
$900.00 Save $800.03 with code GET20 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

This $25 password manager remembers and fills in your passwords

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 10:00

TL;DR: Through April 2, get a lifetime subscription to Sticky Password Premium, which is compatible with Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android, for $24.97 (reg. $199).

Even if you only use the internet for absolutely essential accounts and some light browsing, you may still accrue more passwords than you can reasonably remember. Between your email accounts, social media, utilities, streaming accounts, and any shopping you've done online, you might have dozens of passwords. That's a lot to remember, so it's natural to start re-using passwords or opting for things that are easier to remember. A more secure solution may be to try a low-cost password manager. 

Sticky Password is a comprehensive password management and form-fill tool compatible with a wide range of devices. If you're sick of memorizing all your passwords, here's a chance to give your memory a break. A lifetime subscription to Sticky Password is only $24.97.

Remember one password

Instead of remembering a different password for each account, how about you just remember one? This simple password manager is compatible with Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices, so you can access all your accounts whether you're on your tablet, phone, or laptop. 

Sticky Password lets you save unlimited encrypted passwords, and it even fills them in for you. Log into your counts automatically, and if you're buying something, take advantage of Sticky Password's secure digital wallet. It even works with two-factor authentication, biometric authentication, and more. 

Save on a simple cybersecurity solution 

Improve your password security without needing to improve your memory.  

Until April 2 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can get a Sticky Password Premium Lifetime Subscription for $24.97. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Sticky Password Sticky Password Premium: Lifetime Subscription $24.97 at the Mashable Shop
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Categories: IT General, Technology

PC users, get Windows 11 Pro for only $24.97

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 10:00

TL;DR: Through April 2, if you're looking for a low-cost way to improve your digital security, try upgrading your operating system to Windows 11 Pro for $24.97 (reg. $199).

Cybersecurity may seem like an abstract concept, but there are very real and simple things you can do to help keep your data and devices safer. Something as simple as modernizing your apps and operating systems could give you access to more recent, automatic security tools, and it might not cost as much as you think. 

PC users have a chance to upgrade a compatible device to Windows 11 Pro for a limited-time low price. Through April 2, you can get Windows 11 Pro for only $24.97, with no coupon needed. 

Whether you're a remote worker, a business owner, or just looking for an upgrade, Windows 11 Pro may be able to help. This OS comes with advanced security measures, such as support for biometrics login (for compatible devices), TPM 2.0, and Smart App Control.

Security isn't the only thing going on with 11 Pro, though. Gamers might enjoy DirectX 12 Ultimate for boosted gaming graphics, and casual users could even notice the difference from quality-of-life improvements like snap layouts, desktops, and improved voice typing. 

Just keep in mind that not all computers are compatible with 11 Pro. If your Windows device is running Windows 10 and can't upgrade to Windows 11 for free, 11 Pro won't work either. 

The easiest way to improve your cybersecurity might not be yet another app. 

Instead, take advantage of this limited-time deal and get Windows 11 Pro for $24.97 until April 2 at 11:59 p.m. PT. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: SmartTrainingLab Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $29.97 at the Mashable Shop
$199.00 Save $169.03 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Tesla Model 3 'Ludicrous' will be more than just a speedier M3, new leaks show

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 09:39

The rumored, super-quick version of Tesla's Model 3 will reportedly come with a number of improvements that make it very different from previous 'Performance' variants.

A slew of new leaked photos, shared on social media (via Teslarati), show parts of the new car's exterior and interior, and a short video even shows some of the menu items in the car's main user interface.

Leaker and Tesla enthusiast Nic Cruz Patane summed up the new features in a tweet. A short video, making the rounds on social media, contains a (very) quick run through the car's menus.

First, it appears that the new Tesla M3 will have three drive modes: Chill, Sport, and Insane. Despite previous rumors, there's no 'Ludicrous' mode, begging the question whether the car's official name will end up being 'Ludicrous' at all.

Tweet may have been deleted

Other new features include Active Suspension (with two modes: Standard and Sport), automatic shift between forward and reverse (as seen in pricier Teslas, such as Model X), and minor cosmetic changes such as the ‘Ludicrous’ badge in the software menu (the name and visuals come from the 1987 comedy Spaceballs).

Interior changes include sportier seats, and a carbon fibre dash inlay, while the exterior has a redesigned, more aggressive styling on the front, and a carbon fibre spoiler on the back.

SEE ALSO: Tesla Autopark is getting a new name, and it's very LOTR

There's no word on the price, but if the new reports are accurate, the 'Ludicrous' Tesla M3 will be a very different beast than the M3 Performance variants which were available prior to the Highland redesign. The M3 Performance of old was faster than the other M3s, and it came with a carbon fibre spoiler, better brakes, and a few other, fairly minor upgrades. The rumored new 'Ludicrous' model seems to be a proper upgrade over Tesla's regular M3 and Long Range M3, and if the price is reasonable, it'll probably be a hit.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This 2019 MS Office lifetime deal for Windows or Mac is on sale for under £25

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 06:00

TL;DR: Get Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac or Windows for only £23.45 — that's 86% off.

Whether you’re a creative or an accountant, Microsoft Office Professional Plus for Windows can offer you plenty of resources. MS Office 2019 has been redesigned with more exciting features and improved cloud connectivity, allowing you to deliver higher-quality documents in a fraction of the time. Spruce up your CV, create a stunning slideshow, and produce better-assembled spreadsheets.

With no annoying recurring fees, this deal on an MS Office 2019 lifetime license for Mac or Windows is going for £23.45 for a limited time.

This Microsoft Office 2019 license includes: 

  • Word 2019 

  • Excel 2019 

  • PowerPoint 2019 

  • Outlook 2019 

  • OneNote2019 

  • Publisher 2019 (Windows Only)

  • Access 2019 (Windows Only)

  • Teams Classic 2019 (Mac Only)

With a one-time purchase, the suite can be installed on 1 Windows PC or Mac for use at home or work. You’ll get instant delivery and download where you can access the software license keys and get started immediately. Take advantage of the free customer service and support should you ever need assistance. Microsoft Office is known as one of the most popular business suites across the globe and is great for professionals and at-home users alike. 

For a limited time, take advantage of this price:

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Chennai Super Kings vs. Gujarat Titans online for free

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 06:00

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

The Chennai Super Kings won the IPL last season, but that has all been forgotten about now. The new season is up and running, and everyone is looking to take the crown from the Super Kings.

If you're interested in watching Chennai Super Kings vs. Gujarat Titans for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Chennai Super Kings vs. Gujarat Titans?

Chennai Super Kings vs. Gujarat Titans starts at 2 p.m. GMT on March 26. This fixture takes place at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, India.

How to watch Chennai Super Kings vs. Gujarat Titans for free

JioCinema is offering free live streams of every IPL cricket match this season on its app.

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

Access JioCinema to stream the IPL 2024 by following these simple steps:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

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

  4. Visit JioCinema (you will need an Indian phone number to sign up)

  5. Stream Chennai Super Kings vs. Gujarat Titans for free from anywhere in the world

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The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch IPL live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch select IPL fixtures before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to the best free streaming platforms from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for JioCinema?

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including India

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Stream Chennai Super Kings vs. Gujarat Titans for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Resisting Imposter Syndrome When You Weren’t the First Choice

Havard Management Tip of the Day - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 05:01

It’s not uncommon to experience imposter syndrome in a new job. When you know you weren’t the first choice for the role, your feelings of self-doubt may be amplified. Here’s how to rebuild your confidence. Start by clarifying the gaps with your manager. Have a candid conversation about what was missing that didn’t make you […]

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Categories: Management

Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for March 25

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 03:00

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

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for March 25'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:

Best Actress winner for her role in Norma Rae.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter L appears twice.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter S.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. What's the answer to Wordle today?

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 #1010 is...

SALLY.

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 March 25

Mashable - Mon, 03/25/2024 - 02:00

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 March 25'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.

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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.

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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: The rate at which something is able to move

  • Green: Picking up the pace

  • Blue: Basketball teams

  • Purple: Things relating to TV

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: How Fast Something is Going

  • Green: "Step on It!"

  • Blue: NBA Team Player

  • Purple: Tele___

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 #288 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • How Fast Something is Going: CLIP, PACE, RATE, SPEED

  • "Step on It!": FASTER, GO, HURRY, MOVE

  • NBA Team Player: CLIPPER, PACER, ROCKET, SPUR

  • Tele___: COMMUTE, MEDICINE, PROMPTER, VISION

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

March Madness and Caitlin Clark have already given us some great memes

Mashable - Sun, 03/24/2024 - 19:20

For some sports fans, it's the most wonderful time of the year: March Madness. The marquee men's and women's NCAA basketball tournaments are underway and already producing memorable moments.

Lots of folks have been glued to their televisions over the last few days, watching game after game. In years past March Madness has produced great memes. Remember the sad flute girl and crying Northwestern kid? This year is no exception.

Here are some of the memes and jokes thus far from March Madness, which has been characteristically full of upsets, huge plays, and big emotions.

Caitlin Clark and her dad

Caitlin Clark, the uber-popular superstar leading No. 1-seed Iowa in the women's tournament, is a famously heated player. Her Hawkeyes easily dispatched 16-seed Holy Cross, 91-65, in their opening game. Even still, Clark was still getting into it with the referees. To be fair, she did take a nasty elbow to the face during the game.

But Clark's father was frustrated with her antics from the stands. He seemed to exasperatedly tell his daughter to stop complaining, and lots of folks found it funny. It seemed like an interaction lots of people had with their dads in youth sports.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Oakland's upset and Jack Gohlke

The biggest upset of March Madness thus far was 14-seed Oakland's stunning defeat of 3-seed Kentucky. Led by sharpshooter Jack Gohlke, Oakland squeaked by a Kentucky team full of future NBA stars. Folks online loved joking about Gohlke, who maybe didn't look like a typical basketball star, but sure played like it.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Kentucky sadness

Speaking of Gohlke, lots of folks got jokes off at Kentucky's expense after they were ousted by underdog Oakland. When you've had as much success as Kentucky has historically, it makes sense opposing fans would take pleasure in your demise.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Yale takes down Auburn

Auburn, a 3-seed, got upset by Yale, a 14-seed much better known for its academics than its hoops. There were, of course, some jokes about that.

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Despite all the wild stories thus far, we're still in the very beginning stages of March Madness, with Round 2 games underway. There will certainly be more memes and jokes to come.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Oh boy, 'Joker 2' might be a 'jukebox musical'

Mashable - Sun, 03/24/2024 - 16:12

Sometimes a sentence comes along that makes you do a double take. For me, this sentence, in a tweet from Variety, most definitely qualifies.

Variety wrote on X: "EXCLUSIVE: Insiders privy to filming and early versions of Todd Phillips' 'Joker: Folie à Deux' tell Variety the movie leans heavily towards being 'mostly a jukebox musical,' as it integrates at last 15 reinterpretations of 'very well-known' songs."

The next Joker movie — a film that took itself very seriously even if it didn't say much — is...going...to be a jukebox musical? The character that ended up being super popular with the far right is going to be singing and dancing around. The movie is set to star Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga. Having Gaga sing is never a bad idea, but um, still this whole idea leaves you wondering WTF.

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A ton of people online agreed with my sentiment. Folks also wondered what songs would be involved. There is lots to figure out because it's a truly strange idea to turn the Joker into Mamma Mia.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

So, yes, Joker 2 — which will apparently be titled Joker: Folie à Deux — will reportedly be a musical. Interesting. Strange. It's scheduled to be released in October, so we've got plenty of time to get jokes off until it comes out.

Categories: IT General, Technology

350+ top deals from day five of Amazon's Big Spring Sale

Mashable - Sun, 03/24/2024 - 15:31

UPDATE: Mar. 24, 2024, 10:00 a.m. EDT This story has been updated with new drone deals from day five of Amazon's Spring Sale event.

Best Amazon Big Spring Sale deals at a glance: Best Apple deal Apple AirPods Pro (USB-C) $189 at Amazon (save $59) Get Deal Best laptop deal Acer Aspire 3 $256.99 at Amazon (save $73) Get Deal Best robot vacuum deal iRobot Roomba j7 $298.98 at Amazon (save $301.01) Get Deal Best headphone/earbud deal Amazon Echo Buds with Active Noise Cancellation (2nd Gen) $54.99 at Amazon (save $65) Get Deal Best TV deal TCL 75-inch Q6 QLED TV $599.99 at Amazon (save $300) Get Deal Best unlocked phone deal Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB) $1,149.99 at Amazon (save $150) Get Deal Best Fire device deal Amazon Fire Max 11 (128GB) $199.99 at Amazon (save $80) Get Deal Best fitness tracker deal Garmin Forerunner 255 $249.99 at Amazon (save $100) Get Deal Best outdoor security camera deal Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera $77.99 at Amazon (save $51.99) Get Deal Best Bluetooth tracker deal Tile Starter Pack $42.29 at Amazon (save $12.70) Get Deal

Spring temperatures are melting prices at Amazon. The retail giant is hosting a new seasonal savings event this week called the "Big Spring Sale" (very apt), and it's not just another iteration of its flagship Prime Day sale.

Live now through Monday, March 25 at amazon.com/bigspringsale, the Big Spring Sale is a first-of-its-kind event featuring deals that revolve around "seasonally relevant items" and "warm-weather essentials," according to a post on Amazon's blog. That includes sports and outdoor equipment, cleaning and organizing products, and select electronics, from Apple devices to Fire tablets.

SEE ALSO: Walmart is coming for Amazon with a competing spring sale: See the 25+ best deals

In a deviation from Prime Day, Amazon's biggest savings event of the year, the Big Spring Sale isn't entirely restricted to members of its paid Prime subscription service. However, the company's announcement notes that members "will receive access to exciting, exclusive deals" as part of it. If you haven't signed up for Prime yet, you can jumpstart a 14-day trial for free.

Keep reading for the Mashable Shopping team's running list of hand-picked highlights from the Big Spring Sale, and check back often: New doorbusters are being added every day.

Best Amazon Spring Sale Apple deals Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro (USB-C) $189.00 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $60.00 Get Deal Why we like them

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPods Pro USB-C.

"The USB-C AirPods Pro came onto the scene last year, offering a much-needed upgrade with its charging port, while keeping the features we loved on the Lightning Pros. With these earbuds, you get maximum portability, great functionality with Apple devices, and some of the best ANC you can find on a pair of earbuds." — Bethany Allard, Lead Shopping Reporter

More Apple deals

AirPods

Apple accessories

Apple Watches

iPads

Macbooks

Macs

Best Amazon Spring Sale laptop deals

FYI: Scroll back up to the Apple deals section if you're looking for discounts on MacBooks.

Opens in a new window Credit: Acer Acer Aspire 3 $256.99 at Amazon
$329.99 Save $73.00 Get Deal Why we like it

"After going on sale for $299.99 earlier in the Big Spring Sale, the Acer Aspire 3 is now even cheaper (at $73 off), putting it just $7 away from last November's record low. You don't really have a right to complain about mediocre specs at this entry-level price point, but this guy's hardware is above-average compared to most other sub-$300 laptops: There's an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U processor from late 2022, a healthy 8GB of memory for light multitasking, 128GB of SSD storage, and a 15.6-inch HD display. It's a fine pick for basic tasks like sending emails and watching YouTube." — Haley Henschel, Senior Shopping Reporter

More laptop deals

Traditional laptops

2-in-1 laptops

Gaming laptops

Best Amazon Spring Sale robot vacuum deals Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba j7 $298.98 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $301.01 Get Deal Why we like it

"We're always going to sound the alarm when a 50% discount is spotted on a Roomba. Even without mopping or self-emptying capabilities, the Roomba j7 is still one of the most solid Roombas — and robot vacuums in general — that you could bring home, and that's all due to small obstacle avoidance. On top of room-to-room smart mapping, any j series Roomba steers clear of things like phone chargers, pet waste, and socks. This capability, which we first experienced when testing the Combo j7+, is an absolute game-changer if your previous gripe with robot vacuums was that you had to clean up the room before sending them out to clean." — Leah Stodart, Senior Shopping Reporter

More robot vacuum dealsBest Amazon Spring Sale headphone/earbud deals

FYI: Scroll back up to the Apple deals section if you're looking for discounts on AirPods.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Buds with Active Noise Cancellation (2nd Gen) $54.99 at Amazon
$119.99 Save $65.00 Get Deal Why we like them

Read Mashable's full review of the Amazon Echo Buds with Active Noise Cancellation (2nd Gen).

"We're not going to lie, it can be a little tricky to find more-than-decent ANC on a pair of budget earbuds. At their full price of $119.99, the Echo Buds already offer a fairly enticing price point for that criteria, but at $54.99, that's nearly unbeatable. Mashable Tech Reporter Alex Perry wrote in his Echo Buds review, 'Considering how much cheaper these are than other big-name ANC-enabled earbuds, it's pretty incredible that the ANC works as well as it does.' You shouldn't expect Bose-standard noise cancellation, the touch panels can be a little too sensitive, and the battery life is just okay, but these are fair trade-offs for the money you're saving." — Bethany Allard, Lead Shopping Reporter

More speaker, headphone, and earbud deals

Headphones

Earbuds

Speakers

Best Amazon Spring Sale TV deals Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 75-inch Q6 QLED TV $599.99 at Amazon
$899.99 Save $300.00 Get Deal Why we like it

"If price has been the only factor deterring you from upgrading to an XL screen, check out this 75-inch QLED TV from TCL that has dropped to a new record-low price of $599.99 (according to Amazon price tracker camelcamelcamel). The Q6 is one of TCL's cheapest models to utilize quantum dots: an extra layer of nanoparticles between the screen and direct backlighting. This creates the brightness necessary for Dolby Vision and HDR10+ compatibility to be worthwhile — brightness that a regular LED TV just can't compete with. TCL has also loaded the Q6 series with Motion Rate 240 motion smoothing technology and three HDMI ports, making it a super solid budget gaming TV." — Leah Stodart, Senior Shopping Reporter

More TV deals

55 to 58 inches

65 to 70 inches

75 to 98 inches

Best Amazon Spring Sale unlocked phone deals Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB) $1,149.99 at Amazon
$1,299.99 Save $150.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.

"A close rival to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Samsung's new Galaxy S24 Ultra is a premium 6.8-inch smartphone with a durable titanium design, a rear telephoto lens with impressive zoom capabilities, and a smattering of neat AI features. It also comes with a built-in S Pen stylus that doubles as a remote, according to Mashable tech editor Kim Gedeon. This is the 256GB base model's first discount since it launched in January 2024." — Haley Henschel, Senior Shopping Reporter

More unlocked phone deals

Samsung Galaxy

Google Pixel

Motorola

Best Amazon Spring Sale phone accessory deals Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker MagGo $82.49 at Amazon
$109.99 Save $27.50 Get Deal Why we like it

"Just released in February of this year, the Anker MagGo foldable 3-in-1 charging station just got its first big discount for the Big Spring Sale. It regularly retails for $109.99, but you can grab it for just $82.49 and save 25%. As the name suggests, it can wirelessly charge three gadgets at once — an iPhone, an Apple Watch, and AirPods (or other Qi-enabled devices) — and fast (15W). The vertical design is compact and convenient for a desk or bedside table. Plus, it weighs under 7 ounces and folds up smaller than Apple's Magic Mouse, making it ideal for travel." — Christina Buff, Contributor

More phone accessory deals

Wall chargers and charging stations

Portable chargers

Phone cases

Best Amazon Spring Sale Fire device deals Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire Max 11 (128GB) $199.99 at Amazon
$279.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal Why we like it

Read Mashable's full review of the Amazon Fire Max 11 tablet.

"The Fire Max 11 tablet is Amazon's most feature-complete tablet to date, and you can currently snag the 128GB model for $200 (or $80 off) — its lowest price yet. It's packed with a speedy and powerful octa-core processor that's perfect for productivity and entertainment, can handle up to 14 hours of use on a single charge, and has a beautiful 11-inch screen to tie it all together. You can even get a bundle that comes with a keyboard cover and stylus at a discount (almost $120 off)." — Dylan Haas, Lead Shopping Reporter

More Fire device deals

Amazon Fire tablets

Amazon Fire Kids tablets

Refurbished Amazon Fire tablets

Amazon Fire TV devices

Best Amazon Spring Sale tablet deals

FYI: Scroll back up to the Apple deals and Fire TV device deals sections if you're looking for discounts on iPads and Fire tablets, respectively.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE (128GB) $349.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

"If you prefer going against the grain and not buying an iPad, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE is a solid alternative, and it's on sale for $100 off the usual price during the Amazon sale. It's one of the most water- and dust-resistant tablets on the market, can last up to 18 hours on a single charge, and comes with an S Pen." — Dylan Haas, Lead Shopping Reporter

More tablet dealsBest Amazon Spring Sale fitness tracker deals

FYI: Scroll back up to the Apple deals section if you're looking for discounts on Apple Watches.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Forerunner 255 $249.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Why we like it

"The Garmin Forerunner 255 is on the higher-budget end of fitness trackers, but at $100 off during Amazon's Big Spring Sale, we think it's worth considering. The durable fitness watch features a slim design, but can still withstand excessive sweat and accidental drops. Using the device's easy-to-use five-button layout, you'll be able to check on things like your heart rate, sleep quality, recovery score, and more. It even has a 14-day battery life, so you won't have to constantly slow yourself down as you work towards your fitness goals." — Dylan Haas, Lead Shopping Reporter

More fitness tracker dealsBest Amazon Spring Sale outdoor security camera deals Opens in a new window Credit: Blink Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera $77.99 at Amazon
$129.98 Save $51.99 Get Deal Why we like it

"With 700 lumens of motion-triggered illumination, the new Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight camera lets you see what's happening outside of your home in crisp HD no matter the time of day. Thanks to two-way audio, you can speak to people and pets using the Blink app on your smartphone, and get a heads up if that noise you heard outside was a squirrel rustling in the bushes or an actual intruder. With the Blink subscription plan (sold separately), the enhanced motion detection goes even further with person detection. At 40% off ahead of the Big Spring Sale, you can grab this easy-to-setup security camera for an all-time low of $77.99." — Christina Buff, Contributor

More outdoor security camera deals

Security cameras

Video doorbells

Best Amazon Spring Sale kitchen deals Opens in a new window Credit: Instant Pot Instant Vortex 6-quart XL Air Fryer $79.95 at Amazon
$119.99 Save $40.04 Get Deal Why we like it

"Air fryers have earned their place as a kitchen essential, offering convenience when it come to serving up a quick meal and earning health points since they require less oil than traditional frying. The Instant Vortex 6-quart XL Air Fryer is just $79.95 at Amazon's Big Spring Sale, marked down from the normal price of $119.99, which is a 33% discount. Choose from pre-set programs that include air fry, roast, bake, and reheat for easy meal prep. Instant Pot mentions the 6-quart size is ideal for those cooking up four to six servings." — Lauren Allain, Contributor

More kitchen dealsBest Amazon Spring Sale Bluetooth tracker deals

FYI: Scroll back up to the Apple deals section if you're looking for discounts on AirTags.

Opens in a new window Credit: Tile Tile Starter Pack $42.29 at Amazon
$54.99 Save $12.70 Get Deal Why we like it

"If you're new to the world of Bluetooth trackers, the Tile Starter Pack is a great introduction. This pack comes with one Tile Mate and one Tile Slim. The Mate is designed to conveniently attach to your key ring while the Mate is similar in size to a credit card to easily slip into your wallet or purse. Both are water-resistant so there's no stress if you drop your keys in your mug of coffee, and both are compatible with iOS for Apple users and Android devices." — Lauren Allain, Contributor

More Bluetooth tracker dealsBest Amazon Spring Sale outdoor deals Opens in a new window Credit: Coleman Coleman 316 Series 62-Quart Wheeled Cooler $60.05 at Amazon
$84.99 Save $24.94 Get Deal Why we like it

"It may not be a Yeti, but the Coleman 316 Series cooler can fit over 100 cans inside and keep them on ice for up to five days. Its fully insulated lid and body can withstand temperatures as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while its heavy-duty design can support up to 250 pounds of weight on top. Translation: it doubles as a place to sit. Customers who bought and reviewed it on Amazon dub it "reliable and durable," and honestly, what else could you want in a cooler? At $60.05, it's nearly 30% off and down to an all-time low price for the Big Spring Sale." — Christina Buff, Contributor

More outdoor deals

Fire pits, camping stoves, and grills

Tents, sleeping bags, and more camping gear

Coolers

Water bottles

Hydration backpacks

Best Amazon Spring Sale solar eclipse glasses deals

"The next total solar eclipse is set to take place on Monday, April 8, and if you want to participate in collectively (and safely) staring at the sun together, you're going to need a pair of solar eclipse glasses. We don't recommend buying a pair all willy-nilly, though, because not all of them are legit, and we don't want you burning your precious peepers. What you need to look out for are glasses that are specifically approved by the American Astronomical Society (AAS) and have an ISO 12312-2 safety rating. ... Below, we've listed out all the options we could find that are on sale, so check them out and grab yourself a pair or two before they start selling out (they usually become pretty scarce in the weeks before an eclipse)." — Dylan Haas, Lead Shopping Reporter

Best Amazon Spring Sale gaming monitor deals Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G9 Series $799.99 at Amazon
$1,299.99 Save $500.00 Get Deal Why we like it

This 49-inch Samsung monitor was already at a pretty impressive price with its $400 Big Spring Sale markdown, but the extra $100 off coupon helped push it to its lowest price ever, according to the price tracker camelcamelcamel. This ultra-wide curved behemoth isn't for the casual gamers out there, but if you've been looking to deck out your gamer cave with a monitor the same width as a standard desk that also has a 240Hz refresh rate, this deal lets you do that for a hefty investment, but much less than the one the MSRP asks.

More gaming monitor dealsBest Amazon Spring Sale printer deals Opens in a new window Credit: HP HP Envy Inspire 7958e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer $109.99 at Amazon
$189.99 Save $80.00 Get Deal Why we like it

"If you're springing for a printer at home (or at your makeshift office) you want to be able to print, copy, scan, and even fax with ease. The HP Envy Inspire 7958e lets you do it all. It's got mobile connectivity so you can easily print from your laptop or phone, two-sided printing so you waste less paper, and an advanced photo printer so you can print your favorite shots at home. It also comes with a free upgrade to HP+ that offers additional smart features and six months of HP Instant Ink (note that a monthly fee is charged if you don't cancel before the six-month trial period is up)." — Jillian Anthony, Contributor

More printer dealsBest Amazon Spring Sale scanner deals Opens in a new window Credit: Scansnap ScanSnap iX1600 scanner $399.95 at Amazon
$554.00 Save $154.05 Get Deal Why we like it

"If your line of work involves scanning things all day, every day, you need a speedy scanner that can handle all kinds of different documents. Mashable's sister site PCMag, called the ScanSnap iX1600 "a model desktop document scanner" that includes a color touch screen for easy use, a 50-page automatic document feeder, and a hefty 6,000-scan daily duty cycle. It can easily recognize and organize everything from paperwork to receipts to business cards, making your life and work that much easier. Note that it does not have Ethernet capabilities." — Jillian Anthony, Contributor

More of the best scanner deals:Best Amazon Spring Sale drone deals Opens in a new window Credit: Holy Stone Holy Stone HS720 GPS Drone with Camera $149.94 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $100.05 $50 discount with on-page coupon Get Deal Why we like it

The Holy Stone HS720 is the best drone deal for most people, and with the on-page coupon, it's on sale for 40% off. It has a 4K camera with image stabilization so you can send it flying up to 3,000 feet in the air and know you'll get great footage. You'll score GPS-assisted flight, so you always know where it is, and it'll fly back to you automatically when the battery gets low. This drone comes with two batteries with 26 minutes of run time on each, and is controlled easily with the included FAA-compliant remote.

More of the best drone deals:Best Amazon Spring Sale Prime-exclusive deals Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde TP09 $599.99 at Amazon
$749.99 Save $150.00 Get Deal Why we like it

"Spring allergy season has arrived and if you're tired of constantly having the sniffles, the Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde TP09 could provide relief. The fully-sealed HEPA filter is designed to capture 99.97 percent of particles that measure 0.3 microns in size, including pollen, dust, and gases. Dyson excels when it comes to fan design and this model is no different. It uses Dyson's Air Multiplier technology to circulate the air, pulling in air from across the room for filtration. Plus, having a powerful fan around as the summer months arrive is certainly a great idea." — Lauren Allain, Contributor

More Prime-exclusive dealsHow to sign up for Amazon Prime

The Big Spring Sale is open to Prime members and non-members alike, but a handful of deals are exclusive to the former (see above). If you haven't subscribed to Prime within the past 12 months, you can sign up for a free 14-day trial at amazon.com/prime. After that trial ends, you'll be bumped to a paid membership plan for $14.99 per month or $139 per year.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Prime
Free 14-day trial, then $14.99/month or $139/year Learn More
Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT's The Mini crossword answers for March 24

Mashable - Sun, 03/24/2024 - 14:06

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for March 23 SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for March 24

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Sunday, March 24, 2024:

AcrossStephen A. Smith's channel
  • The answer is ESPN.

Las Vegas thoroughfare, with "the"
  • The answer is Strip.

Valuable substance in the world of "Dune"
  • The answer is Spice.

Fashion designer Marc
  • The answer is Ecko.

High schooler
  • The answer is Teen.

Whirl of water
  • The answer is Eddy.

DownSuffix with priest or count

The answer is Ess.

The insidious proliferation of modern marketing
  • The answer is Ad Creep.

Neighboring city of Tampa, informally
  • The answer is St Pete.

Put a cost on
  • The answer is Priced.

Scratched ... or a coin with a "small change"?
  • The answer is Nicked.

Garden flower ... or a coin with a "small change"?
  • The answer is Peon.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Sandworms and solar eclipses: 5 things we learned from 'The Art and Soul of 'Dune: Part Two''

Mashable - Sun, 03/24/2024 - 10:00

Have you seen Dune: Part Two multiple times? Do you spend your free moments obsessing over every little detail from Denis Villeneuve's latest sci-fi epic? Then The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two, a behind-the-scenes look at the film from Insight Editions, will be right up your alley.

SEE ALSO: 'Dune: Part Two' review: Denis Villeneuve's sci-fi masterpiece soars, then screams to a halt

Written by Dune producer Tanya Lapointe and Stefanie Broos, The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two dives headfirst into the making of the film. Gorgeous spreads of concept art and photography abound, as well as interviewers with the craftspeople who brought the planets of Arrakis, Giedi Prime, and more to life. Not only will you get to bask in the visual splendor of Dune: Part Two, but you'll learn a lot more about the movie as well. I've laid out five of my favorite tidbits from The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two below, but there are so, so many more where these came from.

Opens in a new window Credit: Insight Editions "The Art and Soul of 'Dune: Part Two'" Shop Now 1. Dune: Part Two features a real-life eclipse. Timothée Chalamet in "Dune: Part Two." Credit: Niko Tavernise

Dune: Part Two's opening fight scene between the Fremen and Harkonnen soldiers takes place during a solar eclipse, making for some instantly memorable orange-tinted visuals courtesy of cinematographer Greig Fraser. In an exciting twist of fate, the cast and crew of Dune: Part Two witnessed an actual partial solar eclipse on October 25, 2022. The camera crew was able to capture footage of the eclipse, which wound up in the final cut of the film. To stay true to the lore that Arrakis has two moons, visual effects supervisor Paul Lambert and his team added a second moon to the eclipse footage.

SEE ALSO: How to watch 'Dune' at home: Where is 'Part One' streaming? 2. Inspiration for Harkonnen architecture came from unique places — including septic tanks. Léa Seydoux in "Dune: Part Two." Credit: Niko Tavernise

In my review of Dune: Part Two, I praised the Harkonnens' insectoid architecture as one of the visual highlights of the film. The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two confirms the insect inspirations when it comes to all things Harkonnen, but it also singles out one of production designer Patrice Vermette's most surprising points of reference: septic tanks. "Black, shiny, and new," Vermette tells Villeneuve.

SEE ALSO: Fan who has seen 'Dune: Part Two' 10 times breaks his silence

The septic tank is just one of many fascinating references for the design teams discussed in the book. Others include the Sardaukar's Excalibur-inspired swords and the Harkonnens' inkblot-esque "negative fireworks."

3. The baby sandworm was a practical effect. The sandworms descend on the Sardaukar in "Dune: Part Two." Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two contains no shortage of sandworm goodness, including a pages-long discussion of how the film brought Paul's first worm ride to life. Also of note is the section on the baby worm that lives in the Southern Fremen's Maker's Temple. While a CG worm was a possibility, Dune: Part Two ended up using practical effects, including a worm puppet.

SEE ALSO: Denis Villeneuve breaks down the evolution of sandworms in 'Dune: Part Two'

According to The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two, the shot of the baby worm moving through the sand was the biggest challenge for the film's special effects team. They built the worm out of eight balls connected by a chain, then ran it under the sand on two sets of tracks — one for its circular movements, one for its straight path towards the Maker Keeper (Alison Halstead).

4. Feyd-Rautha's gladiator fight was partly inspired by bullfighting. Austin Butler in "Dune: Part Two." Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

My favorite side characters in Dune: Part Two are the black-clothed Harkonnen servants with distinct curved headdresses who assist Feyd-Rautha (Austin Butler) in the fighting arena on Giedi Prime. They have their roots in Frank Herbert's Dune as Feyd's barb-men, but Lapointe and Broos write that Villeneuve specifically wanted picador silhouettes for these characters, "just like in bullfighting."

SEE ALSO: Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen is the most fun part of any 'Dune' movie he's in

The bullfighting imagery enhances the showmanship and cruelty of the Harkonnens' war games, with the remaining House Atreides fighter Lanville (Roger Yuan) taking on the role of a doomed bull. It also ties back to House Atreides' deeper connection to bullfighting. As discussed in the first Dune, Paul's (Timothée Chalamet) grandfather fought bulls for sport, even dying in a bullfight. Later, Duke Leto (Oscar Isaac) walks into a treacherous "arena" of his own on Arrakis, and Paul will take on a dangerous, unpredictable enemy in his duel with Feyd. It seems the Atreides can never fully escape bullfighting, even if it's just in the metaphorical sense.

5. Which deleted scenes didn't make it into Dune: Part Two? Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya in "Dune: Part Two." Credit: Niko Tavernise

Villeneuve has said he won't release any deleted scenes from Dune: Part Two, which include sequences featuring Stephen McKinley Henderson's Thufir Hawat as well as Tim Blake Nelson in an undisclosed role (which some speculate was Count Fenring). The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two also hints at other moments that were cut from the final film.

One such moment came after the funereal ceremony for Jamis (Babs Olusanmokun), during which the Fremen take the water from his body. In an early version of the scene, Lapointe and Broos write, Paul receives water rings representing Jamis' water — a key part of Fremen culture in the novel. The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two also showcases artwork of the water rings, along with other props used in the ceremony.

Dune: Part Two is now in theaters.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Tilda Swinton and Julio Torres reveal 'Problemista's unexpected common ground

Mashable - Sun, 03/24/2024 - 10:00

In Problemista, Tilda Swinton and Julio Torres costar in the latter's directorial debut as a pair of unlikely friends experiencing very different sides of New York's perilous power dynamic. As a long-established and feared art critic — and a rich white woman to boot — Elizabeth wields a great deal of status and privilege along with, as Swinton puts it, "the mighty sword of complaint." But as a newcomer to New York who's struggling to secure an immigration visa, Salvadoran toy designer Alejandro sheepishly trots through an obstacle course of poverty, squalor, and easily bruised egos. Despite their differences, they have an undeniable connection. 

When Mashable sat down with Swinton and Torres over Zoom, we not only talked trash but also dug into the central bond between Elizabeth and Alejandro. The leading lady and the writer/director/actor offered insights into the backstories that bind them, as well as how RZA's eccentric painter Bobby fits into their dynamic. 

Julio Torres shares the secrets of Problemista's misfits.  RZA and Tilda Swinton in "Problemista." Credit: A24

This outstanding A24 comedy depicts New York City of a place made up of big dreams and crushing disappointments. Street corners are piled with trash and treasures, and every character can be both a savior and a literal beast. Yet within this, there's an optimism in how two misfits find each other. 

Striving to get a fellowship with Hasbro toys, Alejandro (Torres) is scraping by on survival jobs to maintain his work visa. While working at a shabby cryogenics lab, he meets the fiery wife (Swinton) of a frozen artist (RZA), who offers him a path to sponsorship. While Elizabeth jabbers endlessly and has unlimited demands, she dazzles Alejandro with the command she takes over every situation, from ordering a salad to dictating the layout of a gallery show for her frosty beloved. And in return she, in her own intense way, takes him under her wing. 

Torres spoke to their connection, saying, "They are both outsiders in that sense. I think that this is a movie that is about 'the other.' And I think that Alejandro is an outsider. Elizabeth is an outsider. Bobby's an outsider. So it makes sense that Bobby and Elizabeth attracted each other." In the film, Alejandro is trying to break into the toy-making industry. Elizabeth has been ostracized from the art community, seemingly for her aggressiveness and single-minded devotion to Bobby's paintings, which focus solely on unhatched eggs. And in turn, Bobby felt so outside the art scene that he froze himself, hoping to find a future where his work would be better appreciated. 

"They're just desperately trying to find a way in," Torres said of the trio. "Alejandro is trying to very quietly and very politely make his way in. Elizabeth has resolved to bulldoze her way in. And they both really have a lot to learn from each other. And that is what's at the heart of the movie, is just this idea of sort of seeing another other and just sort of understanding each other, even though their experiences are so — on paper — so, so radically different." 

Torres explained, "This is why the character of Bobby, he's sort of at the nucleus of the film. Because his whole thing is being in the fringes of the art world, right? Like, never being fully let in. He's literally living in a commune where they won't even show his paintings." 

Detailing the part Bobby has to play in his situation, Torres added, "It's sort of circumstantial, but it's also a little voluntary, because he refuses to paint anything that isn't eggs. And he's an outsider, but he's proud of it. He wants to make his way in by virtue of being an outsider, by virtue of being different. And Alejandro was motivated by that. Elizabeth sees herself in that. So, in the movie, everyone is sort of like drowning and gasping for air. And in this movie, they sort of like see each other and sort of like gain empathy for each other." 

Tilda Swinton on the background of her hydra. 

In the shared interview, Swinton concurred with Torres, noting of Elizabeth and Alejandro and Bobby, "They're in these similar predicaments. They have these dreams! And they're really fueled by their dreams. And I think the film is very compassionate about that. You know, we're not for one instant sneering at any of these people for having these dreams."

She went onto to detail how the trio handles being an outsider in different ways. "Bobby is a victim. He's just decided to be a victim," Swinton explained. "And Elizabeth wields the mighty sword of complaint. She just complains about everything, about everything. She's just on that setting. And the thing that's magical is that it looks like that's not working for her for the longest time." 

Easing into a discussion of the film's final act, in which Alejandro learns to take a cue from Elizabeth's approach to get what he really wants, Swinton continued, "Then — not to spoil anything — we learn the value of that [complaining]. And I find that still very, very moving that that's not a position that she's taken lightly."

Expanding on how Elizabeth becomes a mentor of sorts to Alejandro, Swinton continued, "She teaches a little — both actively but also by osmosis — Alejandro, to adopt it and to work it, but to his advantage. And of the three of them, he prevails because he has his dreams, but his position is not to be a victim, not to wield the mighty sword of complaint, but to observe. And to just keep dreaming somehow, but to have this sort of slightly exterior position. Then there's a bit of mix and match." 

Swinton and Torres reveal Elizabeth's unspoken origins.  Tilda Swinton and Julio Torres with "Blue Egg on Yellow Satin" in "Problemista." Credit: A24

Beyond being a pair of outsiders with big artistic dreams, Elizabeth and Alejandro have a similarity in their backstories that's not explicitly explored in Problemista. In discussing the film's costuming, Torres shared not only how Elizabeth's wardrobe hints at her dragon-like nature, but also to who she was before she met Bobby. 

"[Her outfits] also allow you to imagine her younger," Torres said, "[In creating the character,] Tilda and I were talking like, 'Oh, she feels like she was a groupie of some band at some point.' So, it is a lot of really tight black leather pants that she wears. It really gives her such a backstory because you imagine like, when did she get these pants?" 

For Swinton, who picked Elizabeth's precise English accent because it got a laugh out of Torres, the clothes helped shape an arc for her character outside of the film. "All the leather and the sort of slight rock 'n' roll pose," Swinton noted before explaining, "If you want some justification or some idea of a backstory, my idea was that she had been a girl at the Glastonbury Music Festival. And she was a groupie of some American band. And she sort of fallen in with some rock star, and [followed him] back to America, and then sort of broken up with him, and then sort of drifted into the art world."

From there, Swinton drew influence from the New York art scene, pulling from the downtown fashions costumer Catherine George curated for Elizabeth, but also the "the frostiness, the sort of slight patchouli dreamcatcher element" that she found "not far away from even the uptown New York art scene, actually. The dreamcatcher and the upscale art scene — they're not divided by much." Swinton would know, having famously taken part in a performance art installation at MOMA in which she slept on display in a glass box. 

Yet Swinton connected with Elizabeth on another level, in her appreciation for Bobby's art. Asked if there was a bit of the costuming or production design she had taken from the set, Swinton said no. But she added, "I did hint rather too gently that I had my eyes on [the painting] Blue Egg on Yellow Satin. Maybe one day [I'll get it.] There is a sort of gap on one of my walls that it would fit very nicely." 

Problemista is now in theaters nationwide. 

Categories: IT General, Technology

Study Microsoft Excel basics in this $50 bundle

Mashable - Sun, 03/24/2024 - 10:00

TL;DR: As of March 24, if you want to learn how to use Excel for automation, data analysis, and more, you can study the basics in the Complete Excel, VBA, and Data Science Certification Training Bundle while it's only $49.99 (reg. $429).

If you're in the working world, odds are you've run into Microsoft Excel. This app may be common, but that definitely doesn't mean it's easy to master. Even if you've used it, there might be features you're missing out on, but you don't have to hunt through the menu or sleuth out the meaning behind every function and macro you can make. 

Instead, you can study the basics in the Complete Excel, VBA, and Data Science bundle. It won't make you an Excel master overnight, but this bundle does have 52 hours of video lectures that you can check to find the skills you need to familiarize yourself with for work, school, or research, and it's only $49.99. 

Become an Excel-lent student

If you've never used Excel, don't worry. This course starts at the beginning with a six-lesson intro to the absolute basics. If you've already used Excel a little, no need to go over repeat material. These courses aren't linear, so you can jump into whatever's most useful. 

If you want to learn about automating basic tasks, check out any of the VBA courses. There are beginner and intermediate options, but both cover a lot of material. Need to turn all those numbers into gorgeous graphs and enchanting charts? Time to join Excel Charts and Visualization

Sitting at a crossroads and can't decide what to learn next? Cross that function junction with a mastery course taught by pros from Mammoth Interactive. And once you have the core concepts down, you can join courses that put your Excel skills to work with finances, pivot tables, and machine learning. 

Make Excel your new favorite app

Once you have the basics down, you could use Excel to automate repetitive parts of your job, analyze complex data, and more. 

For a limited time, the Complete Excel, VBA, and Data Science bundle is on sale for $49.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: rawpixel.com via Freepik The Complete Excel, VBA, and Data Science Certification Training Bundle $49.99 at the Mashable Shop
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Categories: IT General, Technology

This $150 learning bundle could help you pass the CFA Level 1 exam

Mashable - Sun, 03/24/2024 - 10:00

TL;DR: As of March 24, prep for the CFA Level 1 exam with help from these chapter concepts and practice questions created by an industry expert, for just $149.99 (reg. $887).

Finance is a lucrative industry that could earn you up to six figures a year. Of course, you must have the proper credentials — a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, business, or a related field, and, preferably, a CFA charter.

To become a chartered financial analyst (CFA), you have to pass three rounds of examinations which are known for being rather intense. If you could use some help, this CFA Level 1 exam prep bundle could help you study for just $149.99 (reg. $887).

Review chapters and practice with mock exam questions

This 9-course learning bundle covers every major CFA Level 1 exam topic, from ethical and professional standards to economics and derivatives. As you study core concepts, calculations, and policies, you can also test your knowledge with hundreds of practice exam questions. Answers are included to check your understanding.

Also to your advantage is the fact that these courses are designed by Analyst Prep, a financial education company founded by a CFA charter holder since 2004. You’re benefiting from his decades of experience in the financial field.

These courses can help you accomplish…

Now, let’s get into what you can do after (hopefully) passing the CFA Level 1 exam. As long as you have a bachelor’s degree, you may qualify for several entry-level titles like financial analyst, investment analyst, or risk management associate. 

Those who want to earn six-figure salaries will also need to pass the CFA Level 2 and Level 3 exams to earn the official CFA charter. Then you might earn titles like portfolio manager or research analyst.

Break into the finance industry with the CFA Level 1 exam prep online learning bundle on sale for $149.99 (reg. $887).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: AnalystPrep The All-In-One CFA Level 1 Exam Certification Prep Bundle $149.99 at the Mashable Shop
$887.00 Save $737.01 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology
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