IT General

Meta is instituting interim safety changes to ensure the company's chatbots don't cause additional harm to teen users, as AI companies face a wave of criticism for their allegedly lax safety protocols.

In an exclusive with TechCrunch, Meta spokesperson Stephanie Otway told the publication that the company's AI chatbots were now being trained to no longer "engage with teenage users on self-harm, suicide, disordered eating, or potentially inappropriate romantic conversations." Previously, chatbots had been allowed to broach such topics when "appropriate."

SEE ALSO: 4 reasons not to turn ChatGPT into your therapist

Meta will also only allow teen accounts to utilize a select group of AI characters — ones that "promote education and creativity" — ahead of a more robust safety overhaul in the future.

Earlier this month, Reuters reported that some of Meta's chatbot policies, per internal documents, allowed avatars to "engage a child in conversations that are romantic or sensual." Reuters published another report today, detailing both user- and employee-created AI avatars that donned the names and likenesses of celebrities like Taylor Swift and engaged in "flirty" behavior, including sexual advances. Some of the chatbots used personas of child celebrities, as well. Others were able to generate sexually suggestive images.

Meta spokesman Andy Stone told the publication the chatbots should not have been able to engage in such behavior, but that celebrity-inspired avatars were not outrightly banned if they were labeled as parody. Around a dozen of the avatars have since been removed.

OpenAI recently announced additional safety measures and behavioral prompts for the latest GPT-5, following the filing of a wrongful death lawsuit by parents of a teen who died by suicide after confiding in ChatGPT. Prior to the lawsuit, OpenAI announced new mental health features intended to curb "unhealthy" behaviors among users. Anthropic, makers of Claude, recently introduced new updates to the chatbot allowing it to end chats deemed harmful or abusive. Character.AI, a company hosting increasingly popular AI companions despite reported unhealthy interactions with teen visitors, introduced parental supervision features in March.

This week, a group of 44 attorneys general sent a letter to leading AI companies, including Meta, demanding stronger protections for minors who may come across sexualized AI content. Broadly, experts have expressed growing concern about the impact of AI companions on young users, as their use grows among teens.

Don’t miss out on our latest stories: Add Mashable as a trusted news source in Google.

Astronomers have zoomed in on small loops of plasma within a powerful solar flare for the first time, potentially revealing the fundamental building blocks of the sun's violent storms. 

The images, captured with the new Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope in Hawaii, reveal arcs of hot gas just 10 to 30 miles wide that follow the sun’s magnetic fields. Earlier instruments could only resolve loops 60 to 100 miles wide. Inouye's images are over 2.5 times sharper.

Scientists believe these so-called "coronal loops" may in fact be the most basic pieces of solar flares — sudden explosions of energy that hurl a torrent of radiation into space and toward Earth.

The discovery is giving a new window into how our host star makes flares in the first place. Gathering such insight may lead to better space weather forecasts, perhaps preventing future solar storms from wreaking havoc on satellites, power grids, and radio signals.

"Knowing a telescope can theoretically do something is one thing," said Maria Kazachenko, a co-author in the study, in a statement. "Actually watching it perform at that limit is exhilarating."

SEE ALSO: Mysterious space radio signals have finally been tracked to their source

The solar observatory sits atop a dormant volcano, Haleakalā, towering over Maui at 10,000 feet above sea level. Fittingly, the name Haleakalā means "house of the sun" in Hawaiian. But that's not why the site was selected for the telescope. The summit has special environmental conditions that allow astronomers to better view the sun's corona, the outer layer of its atmosphere. 

For the study, published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, the team measured 686 loops. They found the loops' widths tended to be similar in thickness, rather than a random mix. This suggests the telescope may finally be seeing the tiniest parts of a solar flare. 

Left: This view of the solar flare is about four Earths wide, with bright streaks marking areas where energy is being released and arching loops tracing the sun's magnetic field above them. Credit: NSF / NSO / AURA Right: The same image with annotations. Credit: NSF / NSO / AURA

Taken in August 2024 during an X-class flare, the images show dark, threadlike arches rising over glowing flare ribbons. 

Scientists have long believed that solar flares are made up of many little magnetic loops. But up until now, those loops were impossible to see. Researchers could only theorize that they existed.  

If the team has indeed found the fundamental components of a solar flare — and not just larger bundles of loops — it's a breakthrough for solar storm forecasters, said Cole Tamburri, the paper's lead author. The data that could come from studying them in greater detail could improve computer models for predicting space weather. 

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"It’s like going from seeing a forest to suddenly seeing every single tree," Tamburri said. 

Just as Earth has seasons, the sun goes through an 11-year cycle of activity. It is quietest at the beginning and end of the cycle, but in the middle, it grows turbulent, unleashing powerful eruptions.

That peak just came, with solar activity hitting its maximum around October 2024. As a result, solar flares, along with massive blasts of plasma from the corona, have made headlines more frequently.

Even at 93 million miles away, the sun’s outbursts can affect Earth and the rest of the solar system. The planet's atmosphere and magnetic field shield people from the worst radiation, but these events can still have catastrophic consequences for life on Earth, interfering with telecommunications, navigation systems, and other critical technology. 

Such events are rare but memorable. In March 1989, for example, a major flare knocked out power across Quebec, Canada, for 12 hours and even disrupted Radio Free Europe broadcasts.

Want to watch college football this season? Here are your best options: BEST FOR ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year (save $15) Shop Now Best for Fox and Big Ten Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year (save $39.89) Shop Now BEST FOR SINGLE GAME FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month (save $30) Get Deal Best for channels Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now Best for affordability Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months (save $50.95) Shop Now BEST for INTRODUCTORY OFFER YouTube TV 5-day free trial, then $49.99/month for 3 months (save $99) Shop Now

Week 1 of college football action is very much underway, with a stellar lineup of games. Is this the best Week 1 ever? Quite possibly.

Ohio State vs. Texas is probably the game of the round, but Clemson vs. LSU is not far behind. All eyes will be on the battle between star quarterbacks Garrett Nussmeier and Cade Klubnik. It's going be a fascinating tussle between two top prospects.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

If you want to watch Clemson vs. LSU for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Clemson vs. LSU?

Clemson vs. LSU takes place at 7:30 p.m. ET on Aug. 30. This game takes place at the Frank Howard Field at Memorial Stadium.

How to watch Clemson vs. LSU for free

Clemson vs. LSU is broadcast on ABC. Fans can live stream this game on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.

ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year Shop Now

Channels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNX

ESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $29.99 per month, but for the first year, new subscribers can secure a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu for the same price.

Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year Shop Now

Channels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten Network

Fox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $40 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a seven-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.

FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CW

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and provides the opportunity to watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters for seven days before you make any sort of commitment.

Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CW

Hulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $76.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). The included access to ESPN+ provides bonus access to even more college football games on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.

Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network

Sling is a comprehensive sporting service that offers a whole host of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue packages give you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, and more in local markets, but for access to ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more, you'll need the Sports Extra package. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.

YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CW

YouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.

How to watch Clemson vs. LSU from anywhere in the world

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Clemson vs. LSU from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming service

5. Watch Clemson vs. LSU from anywhere in the world

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

Want to watch college football this season? Here are your best options: BEST FOR ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year (save $15) Shop Now Best for Fox and Big Ten Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year (save $39.89) Shop Now BEST FOR SINGLE GAME FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month (save $30) Get Deal Best for channels Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now Best for affordability Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months (save $50.95) Shop Now BEST for INTRODUCTORY OFFER YouTube TV 5-day free trial, then $49.99/month for 3 months (save $99) Shop Now

College football returns after an electric Week 0. And it's back with possibly the best Week 1 of all time.

Ohio State vs. Texas is almost definitely the game of the round, but there are so many interesting matchups elsewhere. And that very much Florida State vs. Alabama. The likes of Ty Simpson and Thomas Castellanos will be looking to take over this opening game at the Doak.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

If you want to watch Florida State vs. Alabama for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Florida State vs. Alabama?

Florida State vs. Alabama takes place at 3:30 p.m. ET on Aug. 30. This game takes place at the Doak S. Campbell Stadium.

How to watch Florida State vs. Alabama for free

Florida State vs. Alabama is broadcast on ABC/ESPN. Fans can live stream this game on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.

ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year Shop Now

Channels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNX

ESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $29.99 per month, but for the first year, new subscribers can secure a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu for the same price.

Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year Shop Now

Channels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten Network

Fox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $40 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a seven-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.

FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CW

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and provides the opportunity to watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters for seven days before you make any sort of commitment.

Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CW

Hulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $76.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). The included access to ESPN+ provides bonus access to even more college football games on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.

Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network

Sling is a comprehensive sporting service that offers a whole host of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue packages give you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, and more in local markets, but for access to ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more, you'll need the Sports Extra package. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.

YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CW

YouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.

How to watch Florida State vs. Alabama from anywhere in the world

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Florida State vs. Alabama from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming service

5. Watch Florida State vs. Alabama from anywhere in the world

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

Want to watch college football this season? Here are your best options: BEST FOR ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year (save $15) Shop Now Best for Fox and Big Ten Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year (save $39.89) Shop Now BEST FOR SINGLE GAME FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month (save $30) Get Deal Best for channels Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now Best for affordability Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months (save $50.95) Shop Now BEST for INTRODUCTORY OFFER YouTube TV 5-day free trial, then $49.99/month for 3 months (save $99) Shop Now

College football is so back. Week 0 delivered some huge moments, and we're expecting more of the same from Week 1.

Notably, Ohio State vs. Texas looks set to be a classic. It really doesn’t get much better than a battle between two top-five teams with genuine stars in the making. We can't wait to watch the action unfold. All eyes will be on the likes of Arch Manning, Julian Sayin, and Jeremiah Smith, as these two juggernauts battle for early season supremacy.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

If you want to watch Ohio State vs. Texas for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Ohio State vs. Texas?

Ohio State vs. Texas takes place at 12 p.m. ET on Aug. 30. This game takes place at the Ohio Stadium.

How to watch Ohio State vs. Texas for free

Ohio State vs. Texas is broadcast on Fox. Fans can live stream this game on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.

ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year Shop Now

Channels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNX

ESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $29.99 per month, but for the first year, new subscribers can secure a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu for the same price.

Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year Shop Now

Channels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten Network

Fox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $40 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a seven-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.

FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CW

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and provides the opportunity to watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters for seven days before you make any sort of commitment.

Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CW

Hulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $76.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). The included access to ESPN+ provides bonus access to even more college football games on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.

Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network

Sling is a comprehensive sporting service that offers a whole host of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue packages give you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, and more in local markets, but for access to ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more, you'll need the Sports Extra package. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.

YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop Now

Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CW

YouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.

How to watch Ohio State vs. Texas from anywhere in the world

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Ohio State vs. Texas from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming service

5. Watch Ohio State vs. Texas from anywhere in the world

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

TL;DR: Stop ads, trackers, malware, and more across nine devices with AdGuard Family Plan — lifetime access for only $15.97 (MSRP: $169.99) through Sept. 7.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdGuard AdGuard Family Plan: Lifetime Subscription $15.97
$169.99 Save $154.02 Get Deal

Keeping your online experience safe and smooth shouldn’t feel like an IT project. Lucky for us all, the AdGuard Family Plan is a simple, powerful way to stop ads, trackers, and malware from invading your screen. You can currently get lifetime access for just $15.97 (MSRP: $169.99) with code FAMPLAN, but only through Sept. 7.

So, what exactly does AdGuard do? Think of it as your browsing bodyguard. Annoying banners, pop-ups, and autoplay video ads? Gone. Hidden trackers and data sniffers? Blocked. Sketchy phishing sites trying to trick you? Stopped cold. And if you’re a parent, you’ll love the built-in parental controls that make it easy to filter out adult content.

SEE ALSO: Using this VPN might actually earn you money

This Family Plan covers up to nine devices. That means everyone in your household (and maybe even your aunt who always clicks the wrong link) can enjoy cleaner, safer, faster browsing without extra subscriptions. Whether you’re streaming, shopping, or just reading the news, AdGuard makes the internet feel less like Times Square on New Year’s Eve and more like a quiet library.

The best part is that it’s a one-time payment. No monthly fees, no sneaky auto-renewals. Once you grab this deal, you’ll get lifetime updates and support. That means AdGuard keeps evolving to block whatever new tricks advertisers and scammers dream up.

Compatible with both iOS and Android devices, AdGuard is built to be fast and invisible once it’s running — you won’t even notice it’s there (except when you realize how much smoother everything loads).

Get a lifetime of AdGuard’s Family Plan for $15.97 (MSRP: $169.99) with code FAMPLAN, but only through Sept. 7.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Get yourself a powerful and dependable Apple MacBook Pro for just $439.97 (reg. $1,580) now through Sept. 7 while supplies last.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro 13-Inch (Refurbished) $439.97
$1,580 Save $1,140.03 Get Deal

Looking for a laptop that won’t need constant upgrades? There’s a reason MacBook Pros have such a loyal following — and such a steep price tag. Normally priced at $1,580, this powerful and portable MacBook Pro is on sale right now for just $439.97 until Sept. 7.

This feature-packed MacBook Pro is on sale for a fraction of the usual cost

A MacBook Pro usually has a sky-high price tag because it’s packed with the bells and whistles we all know and love from Apple. This model comes with a 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor with a 2GHz base speed and 16GB of RAM, so it’s ready to keep up with all your multitasking.

Despite being able to handle your workload, the MacBook Pro is super lightweight and ready to tag along everywhere. It weighs in at just 3.1 pounds, with a 13.3-inch display equipped with Apple’s True Tone technology, which automatically adjusts to your lighting to reduce eye strain.

SEE ALSO: The best MacBooks in 2025: Air or Pro?

This model has an impressive 512GB SSD, so you can store files locally and download your favorite apps to the device. It also has four Thunderbolt 3 ports for convenient charging and connectivity — though an impressive 10-hour battery life means you won’t have to search for a power outlet all day.

A Touch Bar offers serious customization and shortcuts to make life a little easier, and a Magic Keyboard offers comfortable typing all day long. And you’re getting it all for $1,140 off the usual price tag thanks to this model’s Grade A refurbished condition. That means it will arrive in near-mint condition with minimal signs of prior use.

Snag an Apple MacBook Pro for just $439.97 (reg. $1,580) now through Sept. 7 while supplies last.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

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: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Friday, August 29, 2025:

Across"Thanks, I ___ you one!"

• The answer is Owe.

Egg-laying mother

• The answer is Hen.

Plant with tart red stalks used in pie filling

• The answer is Rhubarb.

Proud father of daughters

• The answer is Girl dad.

Tart-tasting beers

• The answer is Sours.

Largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands

• The answer is St Croix.

Wedding companion

• The answer is Plus one.

Mm-hmm

• The answer is Yep.

Booker T. and the ___

• The answer is MGs.

DownWikipedia's URL ender

• The answer is Org.

It might be blown in the fourth quarter

• The answer is Whistle.

Continent-wide soccer tournament

• The answer is Eurocup.

Wasn't too full for dessert

• The answer is Had room.

Wiping, as a hard drive

• The answer is Erasing.

Texter's "Don't worry about it"

• The answer is NBD.

Fuzzy photo features

• The answer is Blurs

Many a character on Apple TV+'s "Slow Horses" or Netflix's "Black Doves"

• The answer is Spy.

Crosses (out)

• The answer is Xes.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to the latest Mini Crossword.

TL;DR: Live stream USA vs. Australia in 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Women's Rugby World Cup has entered the second round of fixtures, with some fascinating matchups on the agenda this weekend. USA suffered a heavy defeat to favorites England in the opening round, but they'll be hoping to bounce back against Australia. Can Ilona Maher inspire her team to victory?

If you want to watch USA vs. Australia in 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is USA vs. Australia?

USA vs. Australia in 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup starts at 7:30 p.m. BST on Aug. 30. This fixture takes place at the LNER Community Stadium.

How to watch USA vs. Australia for free

USA vs. Australia in 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

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

SEE ALSO: How to watch the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup online for free

Live stream USA vs. Australia for free 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

5. Live stream USA vs. Australia for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch USA vs. Australia without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream select fixtures from the Women's Rugby World Cup before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream USA vs. Australia in 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream England vs. Samoa in 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Women's Rugby World Cup is up and running, and the pre-tournament favorites England started their campaign with a confident win over the USA. Now they'll be looking to build on that victory with another strong performance against Samoa.

If you want to watch England vs. Samoa in 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is England vs. Samoa?

England vs. Samoa in 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup starts at 5 p.m. BST on Aug. 30. This fixture takes place at Franklin's Gardens.

How to watch England vs. Samoa for free

England vs. Samoa in 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

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

SEE ALSO: How to watch the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup online for free

Live stream England vs. Samoa for free 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

5. Live stream England vs. Samoa for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch England vs. Samoa without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream select fixtures from the Women's Rugby World Cup before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream England vs. Samoa in 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

What a pirate might say.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

MATEY

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Foolishness.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 4, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

FOLLY

Hurdle Word 3 hint

A small pipe instrument.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 4, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

KAZOO

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Thick chocolate.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for August 4 Hurdle Word 4 answer

FUDGE

Final Hurdle hint

A messenger.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

BARER

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Ever wondered why the moon looks slightly different every night? This is due to where we are in the lunar cycle.

The lunar cycle is a series of eight unique phases of the moon's visibility. The whole cycle takes about 29.5 days, according to NASA, and these different phases happen as the Sun lights up different parts of the moon whilst it orbits Earth. 

So, let's see what's happening with the moon tonight, Aug. 30.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Saturday, Aug. 30, the moon phase is Waxing Crescent, and 43% will be lit up to us on Earth, according to NASA's Daily Moon Observation.

There's a lot to see when you look up at the moon tonight. With no visual aids, you'll see the Mare Serenitatis, the Mare Fecunditatis, and the Mare Tranquillitatis.

With binoculars, you'll also get a glimpse of the Endymion Crater, the Posidonius Crater, and the Mare Nectaris. If you have a telescope in your lineup, you'll also spot the Rima Ariadaeus, Apollo 17, and the Rupes Altai.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will be on Sept. 7. The last full moon was on Aug. 9.

What are moon phases?

According to NASA, moon phases are caused by the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, which changes the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases are how the moon looks from Earth as it goes around us. We always see the same side of the moon, but how much of it is lit up by the Sun changes depending on where it is in its orbit. This is how we get full moons, half moons, and moons that appear completely invisible. There are eight main moon phases, and they follow a repeating cycle:

New Moon - The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The moon starts losing light on the right side.

Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) - Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

Most homes are stocked up with essential appliances, which can range from washing machines to smart speakers. But one you make not have considered is a dehumidifier?

It's not the kind of thing you'd usually find on a wedding present list, but a dehumidifier can be a seriously valuable addition to any home, particularly if your home has issues with damp or mould, or you're someone who suffers from allergies. A dehumidifier can also save you money on bills, so it's an investment.

But which dehumidifier is best for you? Unless you’re a moisture expert, dehumidifiers all look the same. It’s hard to know which dehumidifier is right for you and your home without having all the relevant information. That’s why we’re here to help with some dehumidifier facts and a round-up of the best models you can buy.

What is a dehumidifier?

A dehumidifier is a unit that sits in the corner of the room and sucks moisture out of the air. This means cleaner, healthier air. Just set the humidity level you want and let the machine do its thing. The recommended humidity in your home is between 40% and 60% during the summer months and somewhere between 30% and 50% when it gets colder. Anything over 60% and then humid conditions can lead to damp, condensation, mould, and bacteria. This is especially problematic for asthma and allergy sufferers, as mould can cause respiratory problems. Carpets in damp environments can also retain moisture and attract dust mites.

How do dehumidifiers work?

There are two main types of dehumidifiers:

Refrigerant dehumidifiers — Also known as compressors, these use a cold coil that draws condensation out of the air when it makes contact with the coil surface. That condensation then drips into a tank (which can vary in capacity).

Desiccant dehumidifiers — These pass the air over a wheel that’s coated with a water absorbing material known as a desiccant (a bit like how a sponge works). The desiccant is regenerated by an internal heater, so the moisture drips into the tank. Desiccant dehumidifiers can let off some heat — making them ideal for unheated rooms — while refrigerant dehumidifiers struggle in colder temperatures.

How much water does a dehumidifier collect?

Dehumidifiers are generally listed by their moisture-collecting quota per day, from 10 litres to 20-plus litres every 24 hours. It’s worth noting that some models are advertised based on performance in countries with more humidity than the UK, and you’re unlikely to actually collect 25 litres every day. Remember that dehumidifiers have a maximum water tank capacity, usually between 1 and 4 litres. So even if you’re collecting litres upon litres of water from the air, the tank will need to be regularly emptied. Unless, that is, your dehumidifier has a continuous drain function, in which case you can attach a hose to the ring from the unit to a drain.

Where should you put a dehumidifier?

The obvious answer is to put the dehumidifier in rooms with a damp problem. Close the windows and doors, too. If it’s a bathroom, put the dehumidifier outside the door and let the unit suck moisture out of the room. 

Can dehumidifiers dry clothes?

In the winter months, using a dehumidifier for drying clothes is a real game changer. It saves trips to the laundrette or the cost of running your own dryer — and stops you cramming your radiator with wet clothes. Besides, draping wet clothes around your home will only add moisture to the air. For best results, hang your washing on a rack alongside your dehumidifier in a small room. The dehumidifier will draw the wetness out from your clothes so that they dry more quickly. 

Do dehumidifiers use a lot of electricity?

In addition to saving on laundrette costs, a dehumidifier will save money on heating bills because less moisture means less of a biting chill in the air. You can also save money on products for shifting mould or odours. And that tumble dryer you were thinking of buying? Forget it. A dehumidifier will cost you significantly less. Generally speaking, a portable dehumidifier will consume between 30 and 50 watts per hour.

What is the most economical dehumidifier?

There are a lot of dehumidifiers out there, and it's a difficult to say which model is most economical. That's because something that uses the least energy per hour might need to be switched on for longer to get the job done. Always check the energy rating but if in doubt, Meaco produce some of the most economical dehumidifiers around.

What is the best dehumidifier?

It’s not a case of which is the best overall but which works best for you and your home. Or more specifically, the damp in your home. We’ve done the hard work of researching the best models and brands to help you make an informed decision.

There are the best dehumidifiers for 2025.

Pips is the newest game in the New York Times catalogue. Released in August 2025, the new game puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.

Currently, if you're stuck, the game only offers to reveal the entire puzzle, forcing you to move onto the next difficulty level and start over. However, we have you covered! Below are piecemeal answers that will serve as hints so that you can find your way through each difficulty level.

How to play Pips

If you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity for how Pips is played. Like dominoes, the tiles are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. The main difference between a traditional game of dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 29, 2025

The conditions you have to meet are specific to the color-coded spaces. For example, if it provides a single number, every side of a tile in that space must add up to the number provided. It is possible – and common – for only half a tile to be within a color-coded space.

Here are common examples you'll run into across the difficulty levels:

• Number: All the pips in this space must add up to the number.

• Equal: Every domino half in this space must be the same number of pips.

• Not Equal: Every domino half in this space must have a completely different number of pips.

• Less than: Every domino half in this space must add up to less than the number.

• Greater than: Every domino half in this space must add up to more than the number.

If an area does not have any color coding, it means there are no conditions on the portions of dominoes within those spaces.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for August 30, 2025 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Aug. 30 Pips

Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 1-3, placed vertically; 1-6, placed horizontally.

Number (7): Everything in this space must add up to 7. The answer is 4-4, placed vertically; 3-0, placed horizontally.

Number (16): Everything in this space must add up to 16. The answer is 1-6, placed horizontally; 5-5, placed vertically.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for Aug. 30 Pips

Number (6): Everything in this space must add up to 6. The answer is 0-0, placed horizontally; 3-4, placed vertically; 3-5, placed vertically.

Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 1-6, placed horizontally.

Not Equal: The domino halves in this space must be different. 3-4, placed vertically; 3-5, placed vertically; 1-6, placed horizontally; 2-2, placed horizontally.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 2-2, placed horizontally.

Less than (3): Everything in this blue space must add up to less than 3. The answer is 1-1, placed horizontally.

Hard difficulty hints, answers for Aug. 30 Pips

Number (11): Everything in this space must add up to 11. The answer is 6-3, placed vertically; 5-1, placed horizontally.

Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 5-1, placed horizontally.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 4-6, placed horizontally.

Number (4): Everything in this dark blue space must add up to 4. The answer is 4-2, placed vertically.

Number (12): Everything in this space must add up to 12. The answer is 4-6, placed horizontally; 6-2, placed vertically.

Equal (2): The domino halves in this space must be 2. The answer is 2-1, placed vertically; 2-2, placed horizontally; 4-2, placed vertically; 2-3, placed vertically; 6-2, placed vertically; 2-0, placed vertically.

Number (7): Everything in this space must add up to 7. The answer is 2-1, placed vertically; 6-0, placed horizontally.

Number (0): Everything in this space must add up to 0. The answer is 6-0, placed horizontally; 0-0, placed horizontally; 0-3, placed horizontally.

Number (4): Everything in this red space must add up to 4. The answer is 4-0, placed vertically.

Equal (3): The domino halves in this space must be 3. The answer is 2-3, placed vertically; 0-3, placed horizontally; 3-4, placed horizontally.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 2-0, placed vertically; 3-4, placed horizontally.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games 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 today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable 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.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for August 4 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: Types of tunes

• Green: To disappoint

• Blue: To do amazing

• Purple: Classical musicians

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: Music genres

• Green: Not be good

• Blue: Do exceptionally well

• Purple: Contemporary composers

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 today's Connections #812 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Music genres: EMO, PUNK, METAL, POP

• Not be good: BITE, BLOW, STINK, SUCK

• Do exceptionally well: EAT, ROCK, RULE, SLAY

• Contemporary composers: CAGE, ENO, GLASS, REICH

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.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 27, 2025

Are you also playing NYT Strands?

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Connections.

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferrined pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 4 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: No small matter

The words are size-related.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe large things.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Big Deal.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for August 30

• Enormous

• Huge

• Mighty

• Big Deal

• Massive

• Colossal

• Gigantic

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Strands.

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 today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for August 4 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.

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 was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

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.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for August 4, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

To thrill someone.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter E appears twice.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter E.

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

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

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

ELATE.

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.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 4

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

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

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

Copying large files has always been problematic on my Windows 11 PC. Luckily, I now use another built-in copy feature called Robocopy for many file transfer tasks. Here’s how you can use this robust copy tool on your computer.

SAVE $200: As of Aug. 29, Apple's 13-inch 2025 MacBook Air (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is on sale for $999 at Amazon. This is $200 off its list price of $1,199.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch (M4) $999 at Amazon
$1,199 Save $200 Get Deal

Are you in need of a new laptop for school, work, or something else? There are some awesome discounts popping up on a wide range of models at the moment, including Apple MacBooks. In particular, Apple's 13-inch 2025 MacBook Air is discounted to under $1,000 right now at Amazon.

The 13-inch 2025 MacBook Air (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is on sale for $999 at Amazon. This is 17% off its usual price of $1,199, saving you $200 on list price. This is its lowest-ever price, so if it has been on your radar for some time, now is your chance to grab it for less.

SEE ALSO: Save $100 on the Apple iPad Mini — our favorite tablet for reading

This model of MacBook Air boasts a sleek 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display and is packed with the speedy M4 chip to keep you cruising smoothly, whatever the task. On top of that, it has up to 18 hours of battery life and a portable design so you can easily take it on the go.

We consider the MacBook Air to be our top pick in our ranking of the best MacBooks, and for very good reason. Mashable's Dylan Haas writes that "Apple's latest MacBook isn't the biggest upgrade over the M3, but it still packs in a better processor, some new features, and a much more competitive price (starting at $999), placing it firmly as the MacBook with the most overall value."

Don't miss out on the 13-inch 2025 MacBook Air for $999 at Amazon. And if you're looking for more Apple deals right now, the good news is there are plenty more worth checking out in early Labor Day sales.

SAVE $20: As of Aug. 29, the Amazon Fire Stick 4K is on sale for $29.99 at Amazon. This deal saves you 40% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire Stick 4K $29.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

The Amazon Fire TV Stick is back on sale, and this time shoppers can save $20 on list price. This is one of Amazon's most popular devices, and it's easy to see why.

As of Aug. 29, the Fire TV Stick 4K is on sale for just $29.99. With NFL kickoff fast approaching, this could be the best time to buy.

SEE ALSO: Get ready for NFL kickoff with these deals on massive 100-inch TVs

Once the Fire TV Stick 4K is plugged in, you get access to platforms like Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and more without hassle. All you need is an HDMI port, and you're good to go. It's like turning your TV into a smart TV without the pricey upgrade. Or if you already have a smart TV, you can make the switch to the Fire operating system (aka, get all your apps and streaming channels in one place).

The Fire TV Stick comes with a remote that has Alexa built in, so you can use voice control to search through multiple streaming platforms at once. You can also use it to communicate with other smart home devices you own, such as a robot vacuum.

There's no over-the-top setup to worry about either; these handy remotes are so simple to use. Just pop the device into your TV or laptop HDMI port, and that's it. You have instant access to a range of streaming platforms as well as many live channels and apps.

Convinced? Get this heavily discounted Fire Stick from Amazon and stream the NFL without the stress.