Technology

Dating app happn launches AI-powered date ideas

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 17:34

Like seemingly every tech company, dating apps are going all-in on AI features. At a time when daters are sick of apps and want to meet people in person, apps are trying to incentivize users by leaning into more tech.

Happn just introduced such a feature, but the app itself is different from most. Happn seeks to connect users who have already crossed paths IRL. The app has 165 million users worldwide (six in the U.S. and four in the UK), and also lets users "Crush" (match) with each other

SEE ALSO: Settle down this summer: Best dating apps for serious relationships

Now, happn is launching Perfect Date, an AI date spot generator. Perfect Date is powered by a large language model (LMM) to help daters who are suffering from app "burnout."

After two people have Crush, Perfect Date provides a selection of different date venues tailored to the two users' tastes, based on the information they provide. The feature is only activated when prompted by the user.

Credit: happn Credit: happn

"AI shouldn't be making the decisions for users. Instead, it should help them unlock a path to bring the conversation back toward real-life situations," President and CEO of Happn Karima Ben Abdelmalek, said in the press release. "With Perfect Date, our goal is to help people reconnect, without trying to force them into a box with a one-size-fits-all solution. We're making it easier, reducing the pressure, and helping provide experiences that reflect who our users really are."

Other apps have sought to help curb dating app burnout as well. Last year, Hinge introduced Your Turn Limits, a cap on how many unanswered messages a user has in the app. In an interview last May with Hinge founder and CEO Justin McLeod, when the app was testing the feature, he said the goal was in part to reduce burnout. Bumble also switched up its "women make the first move" ethos last year with a way that a user of any gender can message first with Opening Moves. This was, as then-CEO Lidiane Jones said, a response to the "exhaustion" with the current online dating experience.

This is also one of many AI-powered dating app features released as of late. Major apps have baked AI into their apps now. Earlier this year, Mashable compared AI features on Bumble, Tinder, and Hinge. Grindr, the most recognizable gay hookup app, is testing several AI features including AI chat summaries (yes, like Gmail has).

Now, inclined happn users can get some help figuring out a date spot if they're too tired to find one themselves. The press release states that Perfect Date will be available to UK users soon.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Before Prime Day hits, the Amazon Luna Controller is back down to its record-low price

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 17:32

SAVE $30: The Amazon Luna Controller is on sale for $39.99 at Amazon, down from the list price of $69.99. That's a 43% discount that matches the lowest we've ever seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Luna Wireless Controller $39.99 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $30.00 Get Deal

It's hot outside. If you're taking shelter inside and gaming is on the daily menu, Amazon's Luna platform is a fun way to expand your library. Free to Prime members, the service gives access to plenty of free gaming options. There's just one element that elevates the experience, and it happens to be on sale today at Amazon.

As of June 25, the Luna Wireless Controller is on sale at Amazon for $39.99, down from the list price of $69.99. That's a major 43% discount that takes $30 off the price. It also matches the lowest price Amazon has ever offered.

An Amazon Prime membership comes with plenty of perks. Aside from the free two-day shipping, you get access to all the best Prime Day sales and this year should be pretty epic since the sale is spanning four days instead of the usual 48 hours. But if you're into gaming, the Prime membership means you have access to Luna, Amazon's gaming platform. To get the best experience, Amazon has given us the Luna Controller — and it's on sale today for under $40.

SEE ALSO: This massive Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor is $400 off at Amazon

The controller has a similar design to the Xbox controller with two thumbsticks, a D-pad, and bumper buttons. You can use the Luna controller to connect via WiFi or use a USB cord to connect directly to a Windows or Mac device.

As part of an early Prime Day treat for gamers, Amazon has already added six new free games that you'll be able to take advantage of with Luna and the Luna Controller.

Instead of waiting for the chaos of Prime Day, secure the Luna Controller while it's sitting at the lowest price ever of $39.99. You'll be off on gaming adventures well before the official sale starts.

The best early Prime Day deals to shop this week
Categories: IT General, Technology

Did a Facebook group randomly ban you? You’re not alone.

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 17:03

Mass suspensions are hitting Facebook Groups, with users complaining that their groups have been deleted for unjustified reasons.

Across Reddit and X, users said their groups have been banned or shut down, including a Pokémon group with 260,000 members, a "bad drivers" group with 120,000 members, and an interior design group with over three million members. According to these posts, the groups were taken down because they fell into the categories of "dangerous organizations and individuals" and "terrorism." A birding group with 927,000 members was deleted for "nudity and adult sexual content."

"These are birds," wrote an admin of the group on Reddit. "Myself and my Modmins heavily moderate the group. If Facebook doesn’t give me back my group, I’m done."

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

Meta has said it's aware of the technical error, according to a statement to TechCrunch. "We're fixing things now," said a Meta spokesperson.

Users suspect AI-based moderation is behind these mass bans. The content and topics of these groups — Pokémon, interior design, birding, and others — are unlikely to break guidelines for things like "terrorism-related" content, nudity, or "dangerous criminal activity."

Meta has not shared the reason behind the suspensions so far.

Group admins affected by this wave of bans are now taking action. Minneapolis-based creator Chris Moore said he is suing Meta through a class-action lawsuit, encouraging affected creators and businesses to join him. Meanwhile, petitions are making the rounds on Change.org, with one asking to "hold Meta accountable for wrongfully disabled accounts" garnering more than 20,200 signatures. On another petition, a user who moderated a science group with 600,000 members said his group was "shut down for 'terrorism'" even though the group had no previous violations.

Mass suspensions have been taking place on other platforms in recent weeks, including Pinterest and Tumblr. Instagram, also Meta-owned, was accused of unfair and widespread bans last week, with users suspecting faulty AI as the cause.

Some banned users who pay for a Meta Verified subscription were able to contact Instagram for support, but the rest were unable to do so. Big tech companies like Google and Meta typically make it extremely difficult for users to contact them, and they lack traditional phone-based customer support. In this case, Facebook Groups that pay for the Meta Verified subscription were also able to receive help and restore their groups.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apple is offering free accessories with an iPad, MacBook, or iMac — heres how to get yours

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 16:33

SAVE UP TO $199: As of June 25, buy an iPad, MacBook, or iMac with education savings from Apple and get a free Apple accessory (up to $199 value).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Buy an iPad, MacBook, or iMac, get a free Apple accessory Worth up to $199 Get Deal

What's better than getting a new Apple product? Getting an Apple accessory with it for free. If you're in the market for a new iPad, MacBook, or iMac, Apple wants to sweeten the deal by giving you a select item for free with purchase via the online Apple storefront. That means you can buy what you already planned to put back for school this year and get a goodie on the side for absolutely nothing.

As of June 25, buy an iPad, MacBook, or iMac with education savings from Apple and get a free Apple accessory (up to $199 value). This deal applies to purchases made with education savings at the Apple Education Store.

To purchase, you'll need to verify your status as a student or parent of a student. You can also purchase as faculty, staff, or a homeschool teacher at any grade level. You must have a valid student ID to do so, or verify your eligibility through a school portal or other method via Apple.

SEE ALSO: The 20+ best Apple deals live ahead of Prime Day

To get your free item, choose the Apple product you're going to purchase and add it to your cart. You can select a variety of items, including AirPods Pro, AirPods 4, an Apple Pencil Pro, and a Magic Keyboard, depending on which item you buy. Then check out with your selected item in tow and the discount will automatically be applied.

You can choose an item worth up to $199, depending on which Apple product you're purchasing: for example, if you choose an iMac, you get an item up to $199. Certain Macs will net you a $179 item, while iPads will get you a product worth up to $129. You can check full details and eligibility here.

The offer is available through September 30, so you've got plenty of time to choose.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get a Craftsman cordless drill and impact driver for under $100 ahead of Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 16:15

SAVE 32%: As of June 25, you can get the Craftsman V20 Max cordless drill and impact driver combo kit for $99, down from $144.53, at Amazon. That's a 32% discount and $45.53 in savings.

CRAFTSMAN V20 MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit with 2 Batteries and Charger (CMCK200C2AM) $99 at Amazon
$144.53 Save $45.53 Get Deal

Looking for an affordable and dependable power tool set? Right now, Amazon’s gearing up for Prime Day (or should I say Prime “week” now that it’s a four-day affair), and the deals are trickling in early.

As of June 25, you can get the Craftsman V20 Max cordless drill and impact driver combo kit for $99, down from $144.53, at Amazon. That's a 32% discount and $45.53 in savings.

SEE ALSO: Early Prime Day outdoor deals are already pretty impressive

This tool set includes a CMCD 700 with 280 UWO and a two-speed gearbox (0-350 RPM and 0-1,500 RPM), and a CMCF 800 with a max torque of 1,460 in-lbs, 2,800 RPM, and 3,100 bpm. Both tools have an LED light and include a V20 20V Max lithium-ion battery. You’ll also get a storage bag with your purchase.

The best early Prime Day deals to shop this week
Categories: IT General, Technology

Apples CarPlay Ultra reportedly shunned by former partners

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 16:11

When Apple first previewed CarPlay Ultra, its new infotainment system that basically takes over a car's own infotainment software, the company named 14 automakers that have committed to one day offering the system in their cars.

Now, a new report by the Financial Times claims several brands from that list have given up on CarPlay Ultra.

First, a quick timeline. Apple first previewed CarPlay Ultra during WWDC 2022, when the system didn't even have a name. The company's list of automakers who were committed to offering CarPlay Ultra was as follows: Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Renault and Volvo.

In May 2025, Apple officially rolled out CarPlay Ultra, but only in one Aston Marton model. The company also had an entirely different list of carmakers who have agreed to incorporate CarPlay Ultra at a later date: Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia (it's worth noting that the Hyundai Motor Company owns both the Genesis and the Hyundai brands, as well as a big chunk of Kia Corporation). Not one of the carmakers on Apple's original list were mentioned in the company's May announcement, though Apple did say that "many other automakers around the world are working to bring CarPlay Ultra to drivers."

According to the Financial Times' report, this list now no longer includes Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Polestar, and Volvo Cars (both Volvo and Polestar are partially owned by Geely). Jaguar Land Rover is still reportedly evaluating CarPlay Ultra; Ford, Nissan and Infiniti had nothing to share with the publication, and Porsche is still committed to Ultra.

SEE ALSO: Is Apple's Liquid Glass too much for you? We've got good news.

Details as to why some brands are quitting are scarce, but it appears the reasoning could boil down to Apple's system being a bit too intrusive, with one unnamed Renault executive telling Apple not to try to "invade" their "own systems." Data sharing also appears to be an issue for some carmakers, though the system installed in Aston Martin's car does not share more data than regular CarPlay.

Apple told the FT that more automakers are joining, though the company said the work to integrate CarPlay Ultra with a car "takes time.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Fantastic Four: First Steps final trailer gives our best look yet at Galactus and Silver Surfer

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 15:43

Most of the trailers for The Fantastic Four: First Steps have focused on the titular super team, but in the film's final trailer before its July 25 release, the film's Big Bads come out to play.

First up is Julia Garner's take on the Silver Surfer, who surfs down to Fantastic Four: First Steps' retro-futuristic Earth to deliver a chilling message. She heralds the end of the world at the hands of Galactus (Ralph Ineson), a cosmic entity who loves nothing more than to chow down on planets. Earth, apparently, is next on the menu.

SEE ALSO: Summer Movie Preview: What's coming to theaters and streaming?

While Fantastic Four: First Steps' trailers remain committed to not showing Galactus's face, this one includes more footage of one of Marvel's most formidable villains, emphasizing his massive scale in the face of our puny Earth. It's enough to make the Fantastic Four — played by Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach — flee in terror from his lair, so the stakes have never been higher.

Don't worry, though, it looks like Fantastic Four: First Steps won't be all doom and gloom. Director Matt Shakman (WandaVision) and screenwriters Josh Friedman and Eric Pearson appear committed to emphasizing the Fantastic Four's family dynamic, from Reed (Pascal) and Sue's (Kirby) roles as new parents to Johnny (Quinn) and Ben's (Moss-Bachrach) familial teasing.

Also a highlight of the trailer? Ben/The Thing's refusal to say his catchphrase, "It's clobberin' time."

"That's just in the cartoon," an exasperated Ben tells a fan.

Still, I've got a feeling the Thing will bust out the clobberin' in the actual film. We'll have to wait until July 25 to find out for sure.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps hits theaters July 25.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The ultimate guide to having sex at a festival

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 15:09

Festival season is officially upon us. Glastonbury is right around the corner. And as we head into the height of summer, there will be a festival pretty much every other day. 

If you’re a festival ticket holder this year, there are probably a few things you’re planning on doing: having a few drinks, eating some great food, seeing some of your favourite bands, trying not to think about the fact you’ll be sleeping on the ground for a weekend. And, of course, having sex. 

According to research from sex toy company Lovehoney, 39 percent of Brits have had sex at a festival. This figure grows among younger people, too. Over half (55 percent) of those aged 18 to 34 have had sex at a festival at some point. Yet, festival sex is a complete pain in the arse. Or the genitals. Or wherever else you plan on having sex. In fact, only 12 percent of those surveyed said that festival sex was great and 12 percent saying it was ‘just okay’. So, what's going wrong?

Yes, festival sex is fun, and it’s practically a rite of passage, but it’s a complete nightmare to facilitate. You’re not sure when you’re going to get a proper, hot shower (even if you’ve paid for the bougie pamper pass upgrades), you’ve often drank so much you’re not sure if you really should have sex but you’re still horny, and the only place you have to bring someone back to is a tiny pop-up two-man tent tightly packed with all your belongings, and possibly your mate having a snooze. 

SEE ALSO: The essential guide to mirror sex

It’s inevitably going to happen though. So, we spoke to the experts as well as those who love shagging at festivals to see how to do it best. 

Prepare for festival sex before you head off

The first part of preparing for sex comes before the festival even happens. Ask yourself, are you probably going to have sex at this festival? Are you single? Bringing your partner with you? Have you had sex at a festival before? Consider whether you’re likely to have sex and if your answer is even a "maybe," you should take it as a "yeah, probably" and prepare thoroughly. 

Want more sex and dating stories in your inbox? Sign up for Mashable's new weekly After Dark newsletter.

Before heading to the festival, make sure you take an STI test so you know where you stand sexual health-wise. While purchasing a tent and stocking up on supplies might be at the forefront of your pre-festival checklist, it's essential to prioritise getting an STI test, especially if it’s likely you’ll be doing it with a new sexual partner and even if you plan on using a condom. 

Pippa Murphy, sex expert at condom provider condoms.co.uk says this will "not only safeguard your future partners but also provide you with peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy the moment while being intimate."

"Although some festivals, like Glastonbury, distribute free condoms, buying and bringing your own is wise to ensure you're prepared."

And speaking of condoms, you’ll need to bring plenty of those — or whatever your preferred barrier contraception method is — even if you have a consistent sexual partner. "Although some festivals, like Glastonbury, distribute free condoms, buying and bringing your own is wise to ensure you're prepared," Murphy says. 

"This is especially crucial if you have a latex allergy and need a non-latex alternative. Even if you or your regular partner are using other forms of contraception, I’d still recommend that you bring condoms as naturally having sex in a small tent can make for a messy job — and it’s always in the most awkward of times where you realise you forgot to bring anything that can help clean up the mess."

28-year-old Ella* says festival sex is her "favourite kind of sex" and recommends stocking up on the morning after pill before-hand if possible, too. "I try to just to hand and oral sex at festivals as there’s less chance of STI or pregnancy mis-haps, but I’m also realistic and know that, after a few pints, I’m gonna want a full-on fuck," she says. So, she brings along some emergency contraception just in case. 

"Condoms just rip sometimes, man. Or they fall off or you forget to put them on when you’re being stupid. The last thing you want is to be in the middle of a field thinking 'oh my god' when you’ve had an accident, so I bring a morning-after pill with me." Ella adds that condoms also reduce "mess" during sex for the receiver, so they’re a win-win. 

"The last thing you want is to be in the middle of a field thinking 'oh my god' when you’ve had an accident, so I bring a morning-after pill with me."

For those in the queer community, it’s also worth taking Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) with you to festivals. As Murphy notes, sometimes drunk festival go-ers skip past the important pre-sex conversations where STI status would be disclosed, and sometimes condoms get forgotten in the heat of the moment. If there’s any chance you could ever be at risk of contracting HIV, PrEP reduces your chance of transmission down by 99 percent and it is available for free on the NHS. Though, keep in mind that it doesn’t protect against any other STIs, and you should still get tested after every new partner even if you’re on PrEP. 

While we don’t recommend having any unprotected sex at a festival, these measures will have your back if accidents happen. Keep in mind that LARCs (Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives) like the implant, pill, injection or coil do not protect from STIs and a condom should be worn with new sexual partners. You can get the morning after pill from Superdrug, Boots, and most pharmacies both in-person and online.  

Consider post-sex packing too

You know how, after sex, there can be a bit of… mess? On you and on the bed? Now imagine that in a small tent with limited access to good showers! Yeah, you’re going to need to pack some items for after sex as well.

It might be worth upgrading your ticket to one that includes warm shower access if you’re a top festival shagger. But whether you have access to post-sex clean-downs or not, Murphy says wet wipes, hand sanitiser, and a towel are worth packing to keep things clean. 

Yeah, you’re going to need to pack some items for after sex as well.

"It’s important to practise hygienic sex to prevent an infection. If you’re camping, you should take hand sanitiser to keep your hands and fingernails clean for foreplay, and general skin-to-skin contact," Murphy advises. 

You should also pack fragrance-free wet wipes that are ideal for cleaning yourself pre- and post-sex (along with extra underwear which you can never have too much of whilst at a festival). The "fragrance free" part of the wipes is important, particularly for people with vaginas, as some fragrances and chemicals can alter the pH balance of the vagina and result in conditions like thrush, UTIs, or BV.  

SEE ALSO: What do intimate washes do to our vaginas?

Another good wet wipe festival hack: take them, or your own toilet paper, with you to the toilet at festivals (either find flushable fragrance free wipes, or keep hold of non-flushable wipes and dispose of them afterwards). As a woman, it's essential to bring toilet paper and vagina-safe wet wipes with you when going to the toilets to have a wee. Women are at a higher risk of developing UTIs at festivals due to the "shaking clean method" often employed when they discover a lack of toilet paper. To prevent this, using vagina-safe wet wipes and toilet paper is the most effective approach, as both offer a more thorough cleaning. This reduces the likelihood of infections and helps maintain overall genital hygiene.

"Changing your underwear regularly can help maintain good hygiene and prevent discomfort from sweat and dirt, especially if you don’t have access to any showers," Murphy says, so bring loads of clean pants. 

"I’d also recommend bringing a small, lightweight towel or blanket to lay on during sex. This provides a barrier between you and the potentially dirty ground, ensuring a cleaner and more comfortable experience so you can stay within the moment," she adds. 

What to do if you’re on the pill at a festival

If you take the contraceptive pill, set an alarm so you don’t forget to take your contraception at the same time each day. Festivals often involve packed schedules, late nights, and numerous distractions. Amid the excitement, it can be easy to forget about taking your contraception, especially if you’re drinking alcohol or taking other substances as this can impair your memory and decision-making skills.

"Setting a reminder or alarm will ensure you don't miss a dose as even one lapse in your routine can lead to an unintended pregnancy. Also, knowing that you have a reminder set can alleviate anxiety about forgetting to take your contraception. This peace of mind allows you to fully enjoy the festival experience without unnecessary worry," Murphy says. 

SEE ALSO: How to have sex on your period

If you are on the pill and happen to forget, Murphy says to take it as soon as you remember. And if you miss two days, check the instructions included in your pill packet and follow their suggestion. 

Remember that if you lose your contraception during the course of the festival, a lot of festivals now have contraception tents set up where you can access condoms and the morning after pill. Some also have HIV and other STI testing spaces, which are worth using if you ever have any concerns. 

What to consider before having sex at a festival

Before getting intimate at a festival, there are several factors to consider to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for both you and your partner — especially if one or both of you are high or drunk, which tends to happen a lot at festivals. 

Murphy says there are four factors, in particular, that need looking out for: 

Consent

Intoxication can impair a person's ability to give informed and enthusiastic consent. Ensure that both you and your partner are sober enough to provide clear and ongoing consent throughout the encounter. If it’s not an enthusiastic ‘yes!’, it’s a no.

"If your partner is intoxicated, prioritise their welfare over your sexual frustration and wait until they’re sober enough to give clear consent," says Murphy. Maybe you can meet up another time when your heads are more clear. You can read Mashable’s guide to drunk sex and whether it’s ever okay here. 

SEE ALSO: How to have sober sex Communication

Alcohol or drug use can affect a person's ability to communicate effectively, which is essential for discussing boundaries, preferences, and any concerns. "These should be discussed when you’re sober enough to have a conversation about all of the above," Murphy says. 

Safety

Intoxication can increase the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviours or making poor decisions, such as not using protection or engaging in unsafe sexual practices. Keep everything you need for safe sex in an easy-to-grab bag in your tent or on your person with items like protection and lube to make it easier to access everything you need. 

Where to have sex at a festival and how to navigate it if you feel awkward

One word we’d never use to describe festival sex: discreet. If you’re someone who prefers privacy for sex, festivals can make that tricky. You might have to just accept that your tent is going to wobble and people might hear you (it’s all part of the festival vibes, really!) but if you do want discretion, there’s some things you can try. 

Murphy says "Having sex at a festival can be an exciting and unique experience, however, if you’re walked in on or spotted having sex, it can turn an adrenaline-pumping experience into an awkward one. With this in mind, the best place to have sex is somewhere that offers privacy, comfort and safety — which is likely to be your tent." 

So, make sure your tent is pitched flat and is prevented from shaking too much. "Uneven ground can cause your tent to wobble more easily which may cause unwanted attention. To prevent this further, I’d also recommend placing heavy objects inside the corners of your tent to weigh it down to reduce the shaking even more," Murphy recommends.

22-year-old Tammy* is a frequent festival goer and self-confessed "top festival shagger", and she recommends bringing a portable speaker along for sex, too. "Portable speakers are a must at festivals anyway for getting ready vibes and campsite parties, but they’re also good to have in your tent or just outside of it during sex to drown out any sex noises," she tells Mashable.  

SEE ALSO: Get a portable Bose Soundlink speaker for only $99, plus more of the best Bose deals

"You can also shag during the daytime or when one of the main acts you don’t care about are on as there won’t be that many people in the camp site," she adds. 

Murphy recommends looking for "chill out zones" where sex can be more private, too. "Some festivals even provide designated areas for relaxation and intimacy. These spaces are typically more secluded and can offer a more comfortable environment for sex." If your festival isn’t providing these, you might find some areas that make for a natural chill-out zone after some exploring.  

As for when to have sex, it’s probably best to have it sooner rather than later. Of course, you can have sex whenever you like but considering the lack of cleaning facilities and the general grubbiness of festivals, you might want to shag early into the festival. 

Murphy says, "As the festival goes on, your tent is more likely to get dirtier as you head in and out of it, or if you only have wet wipes to clean yourself. Secondly, whilst festivals are fun, they’re also physically demanding so you may lose your libido and energy for sex as the days go on," she says.   

Remember that festivals are all about the fun and spontaneous atmosphere, and you’re better off embracing this than trying to have "perfect" sex (impossible at the best of times, let alone at festivals). If you take the unique setting and awkward moments into your stride and find ways to laugh together, the pressure will diffuse and you’ll have a much more relaxed time. 

This article was first published in 2023 and republished in 2025.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This 55-inch 4K Amazon Fire TV is over $100 off ahead of Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 13:46

SAVE $120: The 55-inch 4K Amazon Fire 4-Series TV is down to just $339.99 at Amazon, marked as an official early Prime Day deal.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV 55-inch 4-Series 4K TV $339.99 at Amazon
$459.99 Save $120 Get Deal

If you’ve been meaning to upgrade your home entertainment setup without draining your wallet, Amazon might have you covered just in time for Prime Day. As of June 25, the 55-inch Amazon Fire TV 4-Series 4K UHD smart TV (2024 model) is on sale for $339.99. That’s a 26% discount off its usual $459.99 price tag. 

This $120 off bargain is officially listed as a ‘Prime Early Deal’, meaning it could vanish as fast as it arrived.

SEE ALSO: Amazon is dropping way better early Prime Day TV deals than years prior

This 60Hz refresh of the Fire TV 4-Series looks to keep your films and series-watching space sleek and simple. With a newly refined ultra-slim bezel, your shows and movies stay centre stage, while the addition of HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Plus helps breathe life into every scene. 

The HD 40-inch Amazon Fire 2-Series TV is also on sale for $169.99, but you’ll want something like the 4-Series 4K version if you want to take your viewing experiences to the next level.

Whether you’re rewatching your favourite sitcoms or catching up on cinematic blockbusters, the 4K UHD resolution delivers crisp detail and vibrant colours that easily outclass standard 1080p sets.

Built for effortless streaming, this Fire TV is Alexa-ready right out of the box. The Enhanced Alexa Voice Remote lets you launch apps, check the weather, or adjust settings without lifting more than a finger. With access to over 1.5 million movies and episodes, plus support for Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and more (subscriptions required), there’s always something to watch.

If you’re big into keeping up with the latest and greatest series across streaming services, you’ll be grabbing this TV just in time to catch up on new seasons of The Bear, Squid Game, and Iron Heart in some of the best visual quality possible.

You can also tune into live or free TV, connect your consoles and gear via four HDMI ports, or pair Bluetooth headphones for solo viewing. There’s even AirPlay support if you want to beam photos or videos straight from your iPhone or iPad.

All in all, this is an affordable, capable smart TV that handles the basics really well — and at this price, it’s one of the better early Prime Day steals.

Whilst you're kitting out your home with new tech, find out how you can claim a free Soundcore Select 4 Go speaker with a set of popular headphones. What’s more, we’ve also found great deals on Ninja kitchen appliances ahead of Prime Day.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

The Sony ULT Field 1 is back to its best-ever price before Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 13:17

SAVE OVER $40: As of June 25, the Sony ULT Field 1 portable speaker is on sale for $88 at Amazon. This is 32% off its list price of $129.99 and marks a return to its lowest-ever price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony ULT Field 1 $88 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $41.99 Get Deal

If you're spending more time outside this summer, a portable speaker is worth picking up so you can listen to your favorite songs outdoors. If you've been looking for something, Amazon has quite a few on sale at the moment ahead of Prime Day. One of the best deals we've come across is on the Sony ULT Field 1, which has dropped back to its lowest-ever price.

The Sony ULT Field 1 portable speaker is currently on sale for $88 at Amazon. This is a 32% discount from its list price of $129.99, allowing you to save over $40. Multiple color options are on sale at this price as well, so you can choose between orange, off white, forest gray, or black.

SEE ALSO: Everything you need to know about Amazon Prime Day 2025: Dates and deals

If you're a big fan of bass, the Sony ULT Field 1 is an excellent fit for you. With the help of its ULT button, you can bump up the bass in your favorite songs. Alongside great sound quality, this portable speaker is built to handle many of your outdoor adventures this summer. It's waterproof, rustproof, dustproof, and shockproof with a compact size that can fit right into a bag. It even offers up to 12 hours of battery to keep the party going for hours.

The Sony ULT Field 1 may not stay at this low price for long, so act fast to pick it up on sale at Amazon.

If you're not a subscriber but want to enjoy some of the Prime Day deals this year, check out our guide on how to sign up for Amazon Prime ahead of Prime Day to get started before the sale event starts on July 8.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

New leak gives us a glimpse of black iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Air

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 13:07

It's been a while since we've had an iPhone Pro in black (we're talking pitch black, not the iPhone 16 Pro's Black Titanium), and it might be time to bring that color back again.

Leaker Majin Bu posted a few shots of the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 17 Air in Black, and the phones look really elegant in that color. The new, super-wide camera bump, which is envisioned here as black glass on the iPhone's matte black surface, further accentuates that elegance. In short, if James Bond had an iPhone 17, this is the color he'd choose.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. SEE ALSO: iPhone 17 could reportedly get one of these two new base colors

These, of course, are not actual phones; they're probably dummy units based on previous leaks and rumors on what the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 17 Air might look like. In fact, Bu already shared a video of him holding a dummy model of the iPhone 17 Pro Max in white.

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Does this mean the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 17 Air will come in this new, all-black color? We're not sure. In April, Bu claimed that a new color for the iPhone 17 Pro will be the Sky Blue, and while black and white always seem like a good choice, it's unclear whether Bu's dummy models are based on actual leaks or are just someone's idea of what the new iPhones should look like.

All of this is still one hundred percent unofficial, and the iPhone 17 Pro (as well as the rumored iPhone 17 Air) might end up looking completely different than these dummies. We'll know for sure in September, when Apple typically launches new iPhones.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Anker’s new Soundcore V40i earbuds just got their first-ever discount

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 12:42

SAVE $12: As of June 25, the Soundcore V40i by Anker open-ear earbuds are on sale for $67.99 at Amazon. That's down from $79.99 — a 15% discount and their first-ever price drop since launching in early June 2025.

Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore V40i by Anker $67.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $12 Get Deal

With Prime Day just around the corner, Amazon is already dropping early deals. If you’ve been eyeing the latest open-ear headphone tech, this one’s worth a closer listen. The Soundcore V40i by Anker earbuds bring a sleek, next-gen design, breathable comfort, and surprisingly powerful audio into one lightweight package — now for $67.99.

Soundcore has also made the P30i earbuds available for under $30, but the V40i earbuds have some added features if you’re willing to spend a bit more — with the $67.99 deal applied to both the black and white-coloured models.

SEE ALSO: Early Prime Day wireless earbuds deals are slowly rolling in at Amazon

Unlike traditional earbuds that press into your ear canal, the V40i’s open-ear design rests comfortably outside your ear, keeping you aware of your surroundings while eliminating in-ear pressure. The adjustable four-level ear hooks are designed to fit over 99% of ear shapes, meaning you’ll likely find a secure, personalised fit without fuss.

And for such a tiny device, these seem to pack some serious audio punch. With 16 × 13mm drivers, a high-elastic diaphragm, and a unique hourglass acoustic chamber, the V40i promises to deliver bass-heavy sound that holds up even in noisy environments. The adjustable fit helps bring the audio closer to your ear as well, boosting bass by up to 7.5dB over fixed designs.

If call quality matters, the V40i earbuds also come with four microphones and AI noise reduction, so your voice can stay crisp and clear no matter where you’re talking from.

With 21 hours of total battery life, IP55 water resistance, Bluetooth 5.4, and custom app control, the V40i aims to be more than just a stylish audio accessory — more of a full-featured listening companion altogether.

There’s no ‘limited-time deal’ label on this one, so we’re assuming the deal is available while stocks last. So, if you’ve been waiting to try open-ear tech without breaking the bank, now’s your chance.

For anyone planning on putting these extra savings toward a new phone, the Samsung Galaxy S25+ has hit its lowest-ever price ahead of Prime Day. In the event you plan on using the Soundcore V40i earbuds to adventure outside, the fitness-friendly Garmin vívoactive 5 watch is now $100 off — making for another high-quality Prime Day upgrade. 

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

Dysons V11 Origin cordless vacuum is over $100 off ahead of Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 12:34

SAVE OVER $100: As of June 25, the Dyson V11 Origin cordless vacuum is on sale for $468.40 at Amazon. This is 18% off its list price of $569.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum $468.40 at Amazon
$569.99 Save $101.59 Get Deal

Shopping events provide a great opportunity to pick up discounted cleaning equipment, including vacuums. Ahead of Prime Day, we've already seen some excellent early deals on robot vacuums, but what about stick vacuums? Thankfully, Amazon already has some nice discounts live. One of our favorite stick vacuum deals at the moment is on the Dyson V11 Origin, which is over $100 off right now.

The Dyson V11 Origin cordless vacuum usually retails for $569.99, but it's currently on sale for $468.40 at Amazon. It's marked as a limited-time deal right now, so if you've had your eye on it to help out with cleaning, now is your chance to pick it up and save.

SEE ALSO: Are you 18-24? Get 6 months of Amazon Prime for free ahead of Prime Day.

Alongside its sleek design, which makes storing nice and easy, the Dyson V11 Origin boasts plenty of power to keep your home looking tidy. It offers three power modes depending on the amount of cleaning you'd like to get done — Auto mode, Eco mode, and Boost mode — and can last for up to 60 minutes of cleaning. With its cordless design, you can move through various rooms in your house a lot easier, too.

The Dyson V11 Origin also comes with four different attachments to clean smaller areas: a Motorbar cleaner head, hair screw tool, dusting brush, and crevice tool.

Don't miss out on over $100 off the Dyson V11 Origin cordless vacuum at Amazon.

Amazon Prime Day is coming up soon — July 8 through July 11, to be exact — and if you're hoping to check out more deals from the sale event, have a look at our breakdown of everything you need to know about Amazon Prime Day 2025 to plan ahead.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

Diego Luna reads comments responding to his Kimmel monologue

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 12:32

Diego Luna's guest-hosting run on Jimmy Kimmel Live! is already off to a flying start, with the Andor star starting the week with a powerful monologue criticising Donald Trump's immigration policies.

Then, on Tuesday, the Mexican actor hit it out of the park again with another excellent late night monologue, this time responding to the overwhelming reaction to Monday night's show.

"Last night, I spoke from the heart and gave a monologue about immigration and the policies of this administration, and I got some very positive comments online," Luna says in the video above. He then proceeds to read out examples like, "This guy is eloquent! He ought to be in Congress!"

"No way, no, no, no, I’m too productive for that," Luna quips.

The host then reads out the more creative negative online comments, then moves onto press coverage and, in particular, Fox News' story on his monologue, of which Luna reads out the headline: "Narcos: Mexico star trashes Trump immigration policies while guest-hosting ‘Kimmel."

"I’ve done more than 70 movies and shows. I wonder why they chose the one where I play a drug dealer," Luna says.

Notably, Fox News now appears to have changed the story headline to read "Andor star…" though you can see the original headline on the site with a quick Google.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Seth Meyers reacts to Trumps viral F-bomb moment

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 12:10

President Donald Trump dropped a hard F-bomb on the White House lawn talking to press this week, and it's a viral moment that had all the late night show hosts reacting, from Stephen Colbert to Seth Meyers.

In this video above from his segment "A Closer Look," Meyers unpacked the events leading up to Trump telling media that Israel and Iran "don't know what the fuck they're doing."

"I gotta say, even having zero standards of expectations for Trump, it's still surprising to see the president drop an F-bomb on the White House grounds," said Meyers. "From now on, we're going to use the Trump clip as our bleep."

Categories: IT General, Technology

This massive Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor is $400 off at Amazon

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 11:55

SAVE $400: As of June 25, the 49-inch Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 curved gaming monitor is now just $899.99 at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 49-inch Odyssey OLED G9 Curved Gaming Monitor $899.99 at Amazon
$1,299.99 Save $400 Get Deal

As of June 25, the 49-inch Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 curved gaming monitor is on sale at Amazon for $899.99 ahead of the retailer’s Prime Day sale — that’s 31% off its regular price of $1,299.99. This is a limited-time deal, so don’t wait around if it’s on your wishlist.

If your current gaming setup is starting to feel lacking in the display department, now’s a solid time to upgrade with a deal like this floating around. The 2024 edition of Samsung’s Odyssey OLED G9 is a full-on command centre disguised as a monitor. 

SEE ALSO: Amazon is dropping way better early Prime Day TV deals than years prior

With a super-ultra-wide 49-inch curved screen, it wraps around your vision for an immersive experience that’s hard to beat — especially for serious gamers and multitaskers.

This latest model uses QD-OLED technology, combining deep, true blacks with vivid colour thanks to quantum dot enhancements. Its Dual QHD resolution (5120 x 1440) offers crisp detail across an expansive 32:9 screen, while the 144Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time make motion feel buttery smooth. If you play fast-paced titles, you’ll appreciate how the G-Sync compatibility and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro reduce lag, screen tearing, and stutter.

Samsung didn’t stop at picture quality. There are thoughtful features built in, like thermal modulation to manage heat, burn-in protection, and even a Picture-in-Picture mode that makes multitasking a breeze. If you want to tilt or adjust your screen for max comfort, the ergonomic stand has you covered.

Whether you're playing a quick match of Counter-Strike 2, streaming on Twitch, or even running multiple apps at once, the Odyssey G9 is said to handle it all — and right now, it’s doing it for a lot less. 

Just remember: this is a limited-time deal and could disappear without warning. So, if you’re on the fence about adding this impressive piece of kit to your gaming arsenal, we’d recommend pulling the trigger whilst you can. 

If you're on the hunt for a new TV to complete your entertainment space as well as your gaming setup, the Amazon Fire TV 2-Series just got a huge early Prime Day discount as well. For those who might be after a new watch too, you can also save $100 on the Garmin vívoactive 5 ahead of Prime Day.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for June 25, 2025

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 11:40

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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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 June 25 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 dairy products

  • Green: Found by a fountain drink machine

  • Blue: Found in a woodshop

  • Purple: Flying animals

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: Kinds of cheeses

  • Green: Beverage self-service items

  • Blue: Woodworking hand tools

  • Purple: Birds minus last letter

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 #745 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

  • Kinds of cheeses: BLUE, GOAT, JACK, SWISS

  • Beverage self-service items: CUP, LID, NAPKIN, STRAW

  • Woodworking hand tools: CHISEL, PLANE, RASP, SAW

  • Birds minus last letter: CRAN, FLAMING, HERO, RAVE

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 June 25

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Strands hints, answers for June 25

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 11:39

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 June 25 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for June 25 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Worth the splurge

The words are wealth-related.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are expensive 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 Luxury Goods

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for June 25

  • Jewelry

  • Perfume

  • Handbag

  • Luxury Goods

  • Watch

  • Convertible

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.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Wordle today: Answer, hints for June 25, 2025

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 11:37

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 June 25 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 June 25, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Cozy.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

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

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

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

COMFY.

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 June 25

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.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Samsung Galaxy S25+ has hit its lowest-ever price ahead of Prime Day

Mashable - Wed, 06/25/2025 - 11:20

SAVE $200: As of June 25, the Samsung Galaxy S25+ (256GB) is on sale for $799.99 at Amazon. This is 20% off its list price of $999.99 and marks its lowest price yet.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy S25+ (256GB) $799.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $200 Get Deal

If you've been looking to invest in a new phone, we come with good news: the unlocked Samsung Galaxy S25+ (256GB) has dropped to a new low price at Amazon.

The Samsung Galaxy S25+ (256GB) is normally listed for $999.99, but it's currently marked down 20% to $799.99. According to price tracker camelcamelcamel, its previous lowest-ever price was $847.99, so this marks a new all-time low for the phone. Multiple color options are down to this price as well, so you can choose between navy, silver shadow, mint, and icyblue.

SEE ALSO: Are you 18-24? Get 6 months of Amazon Prime for free ahead of Prime Day.

Boasting a sleek design, 6.7-inch screen size, and 256GB of storage to hold all of your favorite apps, photos, and more, the Samsung Galaxy S25+ is a worthy upgrade. It's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor, which makes things run faster and smoother on the Galaxy S25+, and offers a stellar battery life that can last up to 30 hours while watching videos.

Why wait for Prime Day to upgrade? Now is as good a time as any to score the Samsung Galaxy S25+ (256GB) at its lowest-ever price.

If you're hoping to join in on the Prime Day fun this year, check out our breakdown of how to sign up for Amazon Prime ahead of Prime Day so you're good to go when the event starts.

The best early Prime Day deals, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Categories: IT General, Technology
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