Mashable
Save over $100 on the handy self-emptying Eureka J15 Ultra robot vacuum
SAVE $100.11: As of Sept. 17, get the Eureka J15 Ultra Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum for $599.88 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $699.99. That's a discount of 14%.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Eureka J15 Ultra Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum $599.98 at Amazon$699.99 Save $100.01 Get Deal
Ready to stop spending so much time vacuuming your home? It's a thankless task that no one actually likes having to do, never mind one that has to be done so often that it seems never-ending. But these days, you can have a robot handle all your dirty work thanks to the many robot vacuums out there. And with this Amazon deal, you can employ a robot to clean for you without having to spend more than you bargained for.
As of Sept. 17, get the Eureka J15 Ultra Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum for $599.88 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $699.99. That's $100.11 off and a discount of 14%.
SEE ALSO: These 6 self-emptying robot vacuums were the most hands-off during my testingThis self-emptying robot vacuum has 19,000 Pa of suction, which means it can cut through embedded dirt and debris in your carpet with ease. It can handle a variety of messes, and with its 8-in-1 base, it can automatically empty itself, refill the water for its mop option, and handle washing and drying all on its own.
It uses anti-tangle brushes to get through hair and other tough messes, and when you're done vacuuming, you can swap to its mop option with a flex-arm to help get into all those tight corners and crevices. With smart AI dirt detection and obstacle avoidance, you can set it and forget it as well, as it maps its own routes and uses LiDAR to avoid obstacles. It also uses cameras and LED lights to determine the best path so as not to be interrupted by a cat or a foot — or that evil coffee table.
If it's time to invest in a robot vacuum, grab this one and cut plenty of time off of your routine.
Marques Brownlee shows how good a black iPhone 17 Pro would have looked
For some reason, when Apple dropped its new lineup of phones earlier this month, they didn't include a black or graphite iPhone 17 Pro — one of the biggest complaints Apple users have about the new iPhone.
"'How about we cancel the most popular pro color option?'" one user wrote on Reddit, mocking Apple's decision. "Apple needs to fire the person who signed-off on this illogical decision," they continued.
"Yes I agree, I can’t see a single reason why they’d cancel one of the two main, most basic colors (black and white)," another user responded.
"Hard to believe the Pro models once stood for class. This color scheme just looks tacky," another user wrote, echoing the dozens of comments that asked why Apple went with the controversial cosmic orange over classic black. And while some users might not appreciate Apple's color choices — silver, deep blue, and cosmic orange — we can get a look at what a black iPhone 17 Pro could have looked like.
SEE ALSO: A lot of people on the internet are calling the iPhone 17 Pro design uglyMarques Brownlee, a popular YouTuber (and professional ultimate frisbee player) who reviews tech, showed off a video on X that revealed how a black iPhone 17 Pro would look.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.Personally, I think it looks pretty good — and so do plenty of people in the replies to Brownlee's post. Some users disagreed, saying "the scratches would of been wild" and it "doesn't look that good tbh." The vast majority of responses are in agreement: A black iPhone 17 Pro would have been a great option, and Apple is missing out by not including one.
This isn't the first video we've seen taking a "What if" approach to the controversial iPhone 17 Pro design. After the launch, a series of digitally-altered videos by a special effects artist went viral on Reels, including one featuring a color-changing iPhone. Videos like these show just how many people are yearning for something other than cosmic orange:
View this post on Instagram SEE ALSO: This viral video of the iPhone 17 Pro has 130 million views and counting. It's also fake.TikTok U.S. buyers reportedly revealed
TikTok's long, winding saga of dealing with a potential ban in the United States appears to be advancing toward a resolution.
The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday that U.S. buyers and TikTok were working toward "finalizing" a framework for a deal in which a U.S. entity would own an 80 percent stake in the company while Chinese shareholders would own the rest. The story also revealed that the potential buyers were Oracle, Silver Lake, and Andreessen Horowitz.
SEE ALSO: Jimmy Kimmel reacts to TikTok 'framework' agreement between U.S. and ChinaOracle, a software and cloud giant, has long been connected to TikTok as a potential purchaser. Silver Lake and Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) are both huge names in tech investing. It's worth noting that the companies and their leaders have connections with the Trump administration, which has obviously been closely involved with the potential deal. President Donald Trump even said he'd like Oracle co-founder "Larry [Ellison] to buy it." Marc Andreessen, co-founder of a16z, morphed into a staunch Trump supporter after years as a Democrat.
The potential deal has been a long time coming. After multiple threats of a ban, pushed deadlines, and long lulls with no news, this deal appears to be heading toward the finish line. It appears the Trump administration is happy with the end result.
"A deal was also reached on a 'certain' company that young people in our Country very much wanted to save," Trump posted on his social media site Truth Social. "They will be very happy! I will be speaking to President Xi on Friday. The relationship remains a very strong one!!!"
The DJI Mini 4K drone is in-stock and on sale at Amazon for a record-low price — but theres a small catch
SAVE $50: The DJI Mini 4K drone is on sale at Amazon for $249, down from the standard price of $299. That's a 17% discount that matches the lowest price we've ever spotted at Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mini 4K $249 at Amazon$299 Save $50 Get Deal
Snagging a best-selling DJI drone has been no easy feat lately. The brand has been dropping new drone models in the last year that have been excluded from release in the U.S. Browse DJI's site, and you'll find every drone listed as unavailable with a nice "notify me" button in place of the normal "buy" button. However, it's possible to find DJI drones in stock at Amazon, and that's true of today's deal, but the deal has an asterisk we have to mention.
As of Sept. 17, the DJI Mini 4K drone is on sale at Amazon for $249, marked down from the list price of $299. That's a 17% discount that saves drone aficionados $50. That matches the lowest price we've ever spotted at Amazon.
However, today's deal comes via a third-party seller, AeroTech Hubs. In normal situations, Mashable prefers not to buy from third-party sellers, but since this is not a normal situation and AeroTech Hubs has a positive track record, this could be the best path to scoring a new DJI drone.
SEE ALSO: The versatile DJI Osmo Mobile 7P is within $1 of its lowest price ever at AmazonDJI considers the Mini 4K to be the perfect entry-level mini drone, and everyone seems to agree. For starters, the drone weighs under 249 grams, which means anyone can fly it without permits or licensing. Then there's the 31-minute flight time, the 4K video with 30fps, and the 4x digital zoom.
More beginner-friendly aspects come from the return to home feature and the level five wind resistance. Plus, the DJI Fly app comes with plenty of tips and easy-to-follow guidance for beginners.
While it's back at a record-low price, snag the DJI Mini 4K from Amazon. Since a potential DJI drone ban is still possible, it's best to secure yours sooner rather than later.
Experience falls biggest games with 25% off the Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 gaming monitor
SAVE $200: As of Sept. 17, get the Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 for $599.99, down from its usual price of $799.99. That's a discount of 25%.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 $599.99 at Amazon$799.99 Save $200 Get Deal
If you're planning on playing all the latest games this year (like Borderlands 4, for example) in crystal clear clarity, you might be ready to grab a new gaming monitor. That can be a major purchase, so if you're looking to save some cash while doing so, you'll want to make your way over to Amazon to capitalize on a great Samsung deal.
As of Sept. 17, get the Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 for $599.99, down from its usual price of $799.99. That's $200 off and a discount of 25%.
SEE ALSO: The best monitors in 2025This monitor boasts a 27-inch screen, a 240Hz refresh rate, and a 0.03ms response time to reduce lag and motion blur. It uses a QD-OLED panel to deliver deep, satisfying darker shades and bright colors so you get the best picture possible. It also supports FreeSync Premium Pro and G-Sync, so there's no screen tearing to speak of.
While this isn't a curved model like several of Samsung's other excellent gaming monitors, it's still more than worth investing in, especially for its size and picture quality. It has a dynamic cooling system to help reduce heat, a special built-in screen saver that dims itself after 10 minutes of inactivity, and protection against burn-in.
There's a lot to love about this monitor, especially with its price cut. If you're building a new place to enjoy all your games or just want a capable monitor to pair with your work-from-home station, this is an excellent contender that you can save hundreds on right now.
DJI has a new mini drone coming soon — and you cant have it
DJI has been on a roll in 2025. We have a new content-creator dream in the DJI Power 2000 portable power station, the DJI Mics have taken over on social media, and soon we might all be riding around on DJI e-bikes. But the brand just announced the new DJI Mini 5 Pro — a drone that's compact in size and ridiculously mighty when it comes to functionality. But before we wow you with the specs, we have some sad news — DJI will not be selling it in the U.S. through their online store.
SEE ALSO: DJI reveals the Mic 3, a follow-up to its cult-favorite pocket mic. But we have bad news too.Yes, the new DJI Mini 5 Pro will meet the same fate as the DJI Mavic 4 Pro drone earlier this year, meaning it'll launch in other countries, but the company is taking a pass on the U.S. market for now. That's not a shock given the uncertain future of DJI drones in the country.
While there's no official ban on DJI drones in the U.S., we haven't seen DJI drones in stock on the U.S. site in months. Currently, the only way to snag a new DJI drone without leaving the country is via a third-party seller, and that'll probably be the case with the DJI Mini 5 Pro. So far, the DJI site doesn't even have a landing page for the new drone.
The (awesome) DJI Mini 5 Pro detailsAs expected, DJI brought their A-game to the new DJI Mini 5 Pro. It debuts some new and more user-friendly features like a 50 megapixel one-inch sensor, a higher zoom resolution than in previous models, and a 36-minute flight time. That'll increase to 52 minutes with the Battery Plus option.
Of course, the Mini 5 Pro really is mini, fitting in the palm of a hand and coming with a lightweight design. There's also the ActiveTrack 360 feature, which you can use in standard or cycling mode, enabling super smooth tracking with the subject staying in frame all the time.
DJI also included a 225-degree rotating gimbal on the Mini 5 Pro, and it shoots in true vertical, an asset for every social media creator. Forward-facing LiDAR and better vision sensors spell omnidirectional obstacle sensing, which makes the DJI Mini 5 Pro likely easier to use while flying at night.
Will DJI drones be banned in the U.S?It's possible we'll see DJI drones return for sale in the U.S. through DJI's site, but for now, we're limited to shopping from third-party sellers. As of September 2025, it still looks like a DJI ban could be possible. That's not great news for drone hobbyists as well as other industries like real estate and farming that have come to rely on drones. According to a recent piece in The New York Times, DJI is "suing the Department of Defense for placing it on a blacklist," while remaining open to a possible deal with the Trump administration. We're keeping an eye on the DJI drone situation and will post updates as they come.
Anaconda trailer: Paul Rudd and Jack Black try to remake 1997s Anaconda, with disastrous results
1997's snake-centric horror film Anaconda gets a very meta reboot in the upcoming Anaconda.
Directed by Tom Gormican (The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent), 2025's Anaconda swaps the original film's stars Jennifer Lopez and Ice Cube for Jack Black and Paul Rudd. They play best friends Doug and Griff, whose lifelong dream has been to remake the cinematic "classic" that is Anaconda.
SEE ALSO: 2025 fall movie preview: Every upcoming film you ought to know aboutAs a midlife crisis looms, the pair decides to finally go for it and make their version of Anaconda. Do they have the resources or any kind of studio backing? No! But that's not going to stop them from shooting their movie, their way.
Doug and Griff team up with their friends (Thandiwe Newton and Steve Zahn) and head to the Amazon to get their Anaconda on. They've even shelled out for a real, live snake to add some extra realism to their indie reboot.
Unfortunately for the film and for the snake, an accident involving a boat propeller leaves Doug and Griff without their reptilian star. The film shoot goes from bad to worse when Doug and Griff realize there's an even bigger, angrier snake out there — and it's hungry for blood. Suddenly, the film they've been dying to make for their whole lives might be the very thing that gets them killed.
To get a glimpse of the comic chaos that awaits in 2025's Anaconda, check out the full trailer above. Of course, Nicki Minaj's "Anaconda," which in turn samples Sir Mix-a-Lot's "Baby Got Back," makes an appearance.
Slash $200 off Apples most powerful iPad at Amazon
SAVE $200: As of Sept. 17, the 13-inch Apple M4 iPad Pro with 256GB of storage and WiFi connectivity is on sale at Amazon for $1,099 instead of $1,299. That's 15% in savings on both the black and silver options.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Pro, 13-inch (M4, 256GB, WiFi) $1,099 at Amazon$1,299 Save $200 Get Deal
For most people, the M4 Apple iPad Pro is overkill. Seriously — it's that powerful. But if you're a creative professional seeking a tablet that can double as a laptop, while still holding true to its extremely portable form, it's a total dream. And it just got $200 cheaper.
As of Sept. 17, the 13-inch M4 iPad Pro (256GB, WiFi) is on sale for $1,099 at Amazon. That's 15% or $200 in savings on both the black and silver color options.
Launched in spring 2024, the iPad Pro was the first Apple product to carry the M4 chip, and it truly amazed us. It's unbelievably thin at just 0.21 inches thick and weighs in at less than a pound. That makes it the sleekest and lightest version to date. Yet, somehow, it's more powerful than most PCs and even many MacBooks on the market. That's why it's our top iPad pick for professionals. As Mashable's reviewer writes, "The new iPad Pro 2024, packed with the M4 chip, blew us away with its power efficiency, striking display, and breakneck performance."
We can't talk about the M4 iPad Pro without mentioning its outrageous battery life. This thing delivered a "jaw-dropping" runtime of 16 hours and 24 minutes, even though it's only rated for 10 hours.
While the iPad Air is definitely the best pick for most people, the iPad Pro levels things up if you want a tablet that goes above and beyond. And for $200 off, it's a pretty sweet deal, too.
Scoop up an M4 MacBook Air for its lowest price yet
SAVE $200: As of Sept. 17, get the 2025 M4 Apple MacBook Air for $999, down from its usual price of $1,199. That's a discount of 17% and the lowest price we've seen.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon 2025 Apple MacBook Air M4 $999 at Amazon$1,199 Save $200 Get Deal
If you're looking to secure a new laptop, whether you plan on using it for work or for play, a MacBook is always a good choice. It's an even better option if you can save some serious cash when you grab one. Thanks to this deal at Amazon, you can snag an M4 MacBook Air for the lowest price we've seen for this particular model.
As of Sept. 17, get the 2025 M4 Apple MacBook Air for $999, down from its usual price of $1,199. That's $200 off and a discount of 17%. It's also the lowest price we've seen.
SEE ALSO: The best laptops in 2025The M4 MacBook Air is the thinnest laptop Apple offers, and it's great for multitasking thanks to its M4 chip, which gives it plenty of power and zip for anything you've got going on. That means you can still have plenty of tabs open at once without having to worry about lag.
It boasts a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, support for Apple Intelligence, Apple's AI features that can help you rewrite articles, summarize text, and much more, plus a 12MP Center Stage webcam with a three-mic array. And sound is no problem with Spatial Audio support, meaning your music will put you right in the center of the action, almost like you're actually there. It also does wonders for video calls if you happen to be on multiple.
This laptop is a fantastic choice if you're ready to buy, so if you've been waiting for a reason to snag a MacBook, let it be this one, especially at this discount.
How to watch Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League for free on Virgin Media Player. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
There are a number of really interesting matchups in the Champions League this week, and even though Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt won't get all the attention, it's still a really important fixture. There are going to be a lot of tough games for these sides, so this evenly-matched contest presents a great opportunity to pick up some points.
If you want to watch Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt?Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League kicks off at 5:45 p.m. BST on Sept. 17. This fixture takes place at the Fortuna Arena.
How to watch Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt for freeSlavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt is available to live stream for free on Virgin Media Player.
Virgin Media Player is geo-restricted to Ireland, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Ireland, meaning you can unblock Virgin Media Player to stream the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Ireland
Visit Virgin Media Player
Watch Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the Champions League without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt (plus more Champions League fixtures) before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for Virgin Media Player?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Virgin Media Player, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Ireland
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).
Live stream Slavia Praha vs. Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.
The new Wacom One 14 is here: A tablet for aspiring artists and visual thinkers
Wacom has announced its latest tablet, a beginner-friendly model designed for aspiring artists. The Wacom One 14 is the latest device in the brand's One collection. Unlike Wacom's pen tablets that go screen-less, the One features a 14-inch HD IPS display.
Even with the screen, it has a paper-like feel when using the Wacom One Standard Pen. The screen itself is anti-glare, but maybe more importantly, it has an anti-fingerprint coating, which is especially helpful since you'll be getting tactile with the display.
The Wacom One 14 connects to PC, Mac, or Chromebook via USB-C. Credit: WacomUnlike standalone tablets like the iPad or Galaxy Tab, the Wacom One 14 must be connected to a computer to use. It connects via USB-C with computers that support DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3/4. It's compatible with PC, Mac, and Chromebook, the latter of which makes it suitable for educational settings.
The tablet comes with built-in apps to get you started, including Clip Studio Paint Pro, Magma, and Concepts for illustration, Passpartout 2 for interactive art, Foxit PDF Editor for everyday tasks, and Skillshare for online lessons from creative professionals.
Koji Yano, Senior Vice President of the Creative Experience Unit at Wacom, said of the new tablet: “The Wacom One 14 is designed for people taking their first steps into digital drawing and illustration. By combining a larger screen and trusted pen technology in a way that makes it easy for creative beginners to get started, it gives users the confidence to enjoy creating from day one.”
The Wacom One 14 will be available to purchase for $299.95 starting Tuesday, Sept. 17, at Wacom and Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: Wacom Wacom One 14 $299.95 at AmazonShop Now
How to flirt online
Despite daters wanting to meet in person, online dating isn't going anywhere. That means that you might meet your future partner in cyberspace — and you won't keep their attention if you don't know how to talk to them. Or, more specifically, how to flirt with them.
Much has been written on the art of seduction because flirting is intimidating. This was the case before dating apps and the onset of the pandemic, but now in 2025, the concept of chatting up a stranger can be more intimidating than ever before. We fear being cringe, being judged, and getting rejected.
SEE ALSO: The best dating apps of 2025 to cure your 'app fatigue'There's no way around that: those are possibilities. But to ease the anxiety of showing your peacock feathers online, we asked the experts for advice on how to do it.
How to flirt over textFirst, we need an understanding of what flirting actually is, said Laurie Mintz, Ph.D., author of Becoming Cliterate and sexpert for sex toy brand LELO. Citing Psychology Today, Mintz said that flirting is a time-honored way of signaling interest and attraction to another person. Someone can do so in small increments, so both people can gauge how interested the other is.
Historically, flirting was all about body language (like whether someone smiles or leans into you) or verbal cues (like playful banter). The internet can strip those factors away, but that doesn't mean that it's completely changed the way we signal interest in someone.
Flirting has and continues to occur both live and in person, and asynchronously, former sociologist for Tinder and Bumble, Dr. Jess Carbino, told Mashable.
"Letter writing was historically a dominant mode of asynchronous communication that served as a mechanism to flirt until the early part of the 21st century," she pointed out. "Asynchronous" means not happening at the same time. In the days of old, someone would write a letter and might only get a response weeks or months later.
Now, when flirting is staggered like that, it's usually over text or an app — which means it's instantaneous.
"While individuals could and certainly do take time to respond, historic forms of interpersonal communication that was asynchronous [lent] themselves more to strategy and consideration," Carbino said.
So, how can we flirt both out of sync and in real time?
The key is using words to give compliments, playful banter, and references to being available, Mintz said.
She recommends starting out with an open-ended question about something on their profile, or pointing out something you noticed on it. For example: "I notice a lot of your pics are with your dog!" Establish that you want to get to know them, and take note of any common interests. You can also share your own interests, too.
Mintz suggested keeping the tone light and fun and saving the deep talk for in-person. Use emoji and photos to show that you're interested.
Relationship coach for politicized people and Ph.D. in human sexuality studies, Melissa Fabello, also told Mashable that well-placed punctuation and emoji can go a long way.
"Flirting can be hard to do digitally because by its very definition, flirtation is about implication and suggestion. Without body language, that can be hard to pull off," she said. Use punctuation, emoji, and gifs to get your tone across.
Also: the eggplant and water drop emoji aren't suggestive, Fabello said, they're direct.
Watch out for mismatched live and online flirting styles, Carbino said. For example, someone who's a more polite flirt in person might be emboldened by an online medium to engage differently. When they're flirting IRL, their politeness could potentially lead to mixed signals.
Should I use ChatGPT to flirt?For years now, some people have relied on large language models like ChatGPT to flirt for them by generating messages to matches. But both Mintz and Fabello told Mashable that being authentic and truly yourself when flirting is important.
"You want the other person to be interested in you, not a false persona," Mintz said.
Fabello advised having a strong sense of who you are and what you want to explore — or at least as strong as possible. "Being performative or faking it sets up an unhelpful dynamic for if and when you two are actually naked," she said.
Ask yourself: "What are your sexual desires and boundaries? What is your comfort [level] with IRL dirty talk?"
ChatGPT won't have those answers for you. As Fabello put it, sexting starts with your relationship with yourself.
Fabello also advises against forcing digital flirting if it's not your thing. If you can't be your true self over text, that's OK. Some people feel more comfortable expressing themselves in person.
What about flirting with nudes?Nudes are an art form, said Fabello. Think of them as such and get creative.
"I promise that every woman in the world has received a photo of a penis from that exact angle in that same lighting with that same setting," she said.
You don't have to send standard dick pics (and, it should go without saying, but you should never send them unsolicited). Ask yourself how audio and visuals can entice someone, rather than leave nothing to the imagination.
If you need more tips, Mashable has a guide on taking nudes and how to store your nudes safely.
More digital flirting tipsDon't be afraid to take a risk, Fabello said. As long as you're not pushing or crossing boundaries — and you're open to your flirting partner saying you have — step outside your comfort zone.
"Say the sweet or sexy thing that you want to express. You might be surprised at how they respond," Fabello said.
And know this will get easier over time. Especially if you meet in person (more on that below), you'll get to know this person and know what they respond to over text. And if you move on to someone else, you'll have more flirting practice under your belt.
And if someone you're talking to seems dull, it could just be that they're not comfortable flirting online. It might still be worth giving a date a shot, Fabello said.
How to flirt in personUnless you want an online-only relationship (power to you!), the time will come when you meet IRL.
"Don't keep talking online forever — eventually make it clear that you'd like to meet in person," said Mintz.
When the COVID vaccine became widely available, Mashable wrote about how to flirt in person again, and the top tips weren't much different than online flirting:
Don't worry about being interesting (aka, be yourself)
Acknowledge that dating comes with risk — and that's OK
Flirting is ultimately about sending that signal of interest, whether from a feather-tip pen or your fingertips. It can be nerve-racking, but don't let that stop you.
The iPhone 17 has officially landed. Heres how and when you can preorder all 4 phones.
We've known that Apple was coming out with an iPhone 17 for forever now. But after countless leaks and rumored changes over the past few months, the Sept. 9 Apple Event confirmed it all. You can officially preorder all versions of the iPhone 17 at the three major phone carries, as well as from Best Buy or from Apple directly. Shipping begins Sept. 19.
For Apple people, September isn't just a month spent torn between hanging onto summer or falling for fall propaganda. It's also that time of year to debate hanging on to your old iPhone or falling for new iPhone propaganda. If you're heavily considering taking the plunge this year, you have more options to choose from than in 2024: Apple dropped four new iPhones (compared to three iPhone 16s) to choose from: the base iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Max, and the iPhone Air. Here's the pricing breakdown:
iPhone 17 (lavender, mist blue, sage, black, white) — starting at $799
iPhone Air (space black, sky blue, cloud white, light gold) — starting at $999
iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max (silver, deep blue, cosmic orange) — starting at $1,099
As more retailers open up their respective preorder pages, we'll link those here, too. Additionally, you can save a big chunk on your iPhone 17 upgrade when you trade in an iPhone 13 or newer in any condition.
All new Apple devices revealedThe AirPods Pro 3, Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch SE 3 were also announced during the event and will be available to pre-order on Sept. 12.
So, what's the difference between the iPhone 17 and the iPhone 16 that thoroughly impressed us last year? This time around, Apple's being more generous with specs at every budget level: Every iPhone 17 model has a 120Hz ProMotion display (not just the Pro models), hitting up to 3,000 nits of peak outdoor brightness.
SEE ALSO: Every iPhone getting iOS 26: See if yours is on the listAnd then there's the elusive iPhone Air — it's real, and it's like no iPhone you've held before. At just 5.6 millimeters thick, the iPad Air is incredibly lightweight yet incredibly durable. The lone rear camera situation required a redesign that's reminiscent of the Google Pixel 10, but chic as hell nonetheless. Despite the physically compact build, the iPhone Air maintains much of the same brainpower and all-day battery life as the other iPhone 17 models.
Credit: Screenshot: AppleBut to hold the most powerful iPhone of them all (by far, apparently), you'll have to opt for the iPhone 17 Pro. It's powered by the A19 Pro chip and what Apple referred to as the fastest CPU in any smartphone. But more juice doesn't necessarily mean shorter battery life here, as the iPhone 17 Pro Max is the first iPhone in history with a battery over 5,000mAh capacity.
"Shot on iPhone" is about to have a whole new meaning. The camera situation has gotten a pretty serious revamp with the 17, including selfie cameras up to 18MP (compared to the 12MP on older iPhones) that automatically flip the orientation based on what's in the picture — no more turning your camera sideways just to get a long group selfie. The iPhone 17 Pro models are also outfitted with triple 48MP fusion cameras on the back and an ultrawide lens with four times the resolution of that on the iPhone 16. During the event, the iPhone 17 Pro's camera system was described as "the equivalent of eight Pro lenses in your pocket."
Pre-orders for the new iPhone opened on Sept. 12 and will run through Sept. 19, when all iPhone 17 and iPhone Air models will begin shipping.
Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 17 $799 at Apple StoreLearn More Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max $1,099 at Apple Store
Learn More Opens in a new window Credit: Apple iPhone 17 Air $999 at Apple Store
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For more Live Apple Event coverage, follow Mashable's live blog and get real-time updates on the iPhone 17, Apple Watch Series 11, and AirPods Pro 3 launch.
How to watch Pakistan vs. UAE online for free
TL;DR: Pakistan vs. UAE in the 2025 Asia Cup is available to live stream for free on Tamasha. Access this free streaming service from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 Asia Cup continues with huge matchups between some of the best T20 sides in the world. Pakistan next face up against the UAE. They lost their last fixture against India, but can still progress to the Super Four with a win here.
If you want to watch Pakistan vs. UAE in the 2025 Asia Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Pakistan vs. UAE?Pakistan vs. UAE in the 2025 Asia Cup starts at 10:30 a.m. ET on Sept. 17. This game takes place at the Dubai International Stadium.
How to watch Pakistan vs. UAE for freePakistan vs. UAE in the 2025 Asia Cup is available to live stream for free on Tamasha.
Tamasha is geo-restricted to Pakistan, 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 Pakistan, meaning you can unblock Tamasha from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Pakistan vs. UAE in the 2025 Asia Cup for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Pakistan
Visit Tamasha
Live stream Pakistan vs. UAE for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can watch the 2025 Asia Cup without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you plenty of time to watch the tournament for free.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming services from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for live streaming is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for Tamasha?ExpressVPN is the top choice for live streaming on free sites like Tamasha, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Pakistan
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 the 2025 Asia Cup for free with ExpressVPN.
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for September 17, 2025
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 Pips hints, answers for September 2, 2025 Here's a hint for today's Connections categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Found in front of a home
Green: To backtrack
Blue: To overfill
Purple: What a kid would watch
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: They're blowin' in the wind
Green: Change one's tune
Blue: Cram
Purple: Last words in long-running children's show titles
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 #829 is...
What is the answer to Connections todayThey're blowin' in the wind: FLAG, PINWHEEL, VANE, WIND CHIME
Change one's tune: ABOUT-FACE, BACKPEDAL, FLIP-FLOP, RENEGE
Cram: JAM, SHOEHORN, STUFF, WEDGE
Last words in long-running children's show titles: KANGAROO, NEIGHBORHOOD, RAINBOW, STREET
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 September 2, 2025Are 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.
NYT Strands hints, answers for September 17, 2025
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 MashableBy 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 September 2, 2025 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for September 2, 2025 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: We beg to differThe words are antonyms.
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explainedThese words describe contradictions.
NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?Today's NYT Strands spangram is veritcal.
NYT Strands spangram answer todayToday's spangram is Opposites Attract.
Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for September 17Rigid
Bold
Quiet
Opposites Attract
Flexible
Timid
Noisy
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.
Wordle today: Answer, hints for September 17, 2025
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 hints today: Clues, answers for September 2, 2025 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 Pips hints, answers for September 2, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:What one chews with.
Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?The letter T appears twice.
Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...Today's Wordle starts with the letter T.
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...
TEETH
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 September 2, 2025Reporting 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.
The top 10 most expensive Pokémon cards in my collection right now
Collecting Pokémon cards has always been more than chasing the most expensive grails. For me, it’s about the stories, the memories, and the way each card reflects a piece of the Pokémon journey — that goes for a promo given out at a movie theater or a chase card that had collectors battling bots to secure. Prices rise and fall, but the attachment we form to these cards is what really cements their value.
Over the years I’ve built a collection that balances nostalgia, playability, and some serious collector heat. Here are my top 10 cards, ranked from the most affordable to the crown jewel of my binder. Alongside their pricing history, I’ll explain why each one has a permanent spot in my collection.
10. Latios - 203/191 (Surging Sparks) Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyCurrent price: $29 | Market price: $29.46 | Last sold: $29
Latios Illustration Rare is a stunning example of how modern sets are leaning hard into collector-driven artwork. Part of a twinned art set with Latias ex SIR, this card initially launched at over $40 back in late 2024 but has since settled comfortably at $29. That’s still impressive for an Illustration Rare, which often don’t hold value unless tied to fan-favorite Pokémon. The twin artwork connection makes this card special, and I love how it displays when paired with Latias — together they feel like two halves of a single story.
9. Mew Black Star Promo 9 Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyCurrent price: $56.50 | Market price: $56.49 | Last sold: $36.89
This WotC-era promo was originally handed out at Pokémon League events in April 2000, making it one of the earliest promotional releases. Its Devolution Beam attack is quirky, and Ken Sugimori’s artwork cements its nostalgic feel. Price-wise, it climbed from $40.72 to $61.21 between February and March and is now holding steady around $55. For me, this card isn’t just about the value; it’s about holding a slice of Pokémon TCG history, back when promos were events in themselves.
8. Mew Black Star Promo 47 (Lillypad Mew) Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyCurrent price: $68.70 | Market price: $68.62 | Last sold: $65.90
The Lillypad Mew is one of those cards that feels almost mythical among collectors. With its Neutral Shield Pokémon Power and adorable artwork, it became a fan favorite and was even reprinted in X and Y Evolutions. For years it hovered around $45–$50, but it’s seen a steady climb since mid-2024, now nearing $70. The market is finally giving these old promos the recognition they deserve, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see this one crack $100 soon. It’s a true piece of Pokémon promo history.
7. Charizard VSTAR SWSH262 Promo Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyCurrent price: $72.93 | Market price: $69.61 | Last sold: $67.95
Charizard always carries weight in the hobby, and this promo from the Ultra Premium Collection is no exception. What makes it even more iconic is that its twin artwork features Mewtwo from Crown Zenith, capturing an epic battle on cardboard. Last year this card could be had for around $15, but since then it’s skyrocketed past $70. For a Charizard chase card, that’s still relatively affordable, and it feels like one of those promos that only gets more desirable as time goes on.
6. Ancient Mew Promo Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyCurrent price: $84.98 | Market price: $90.78 | Last sold: $99.95
For anyone who grew up with Pokémon, Ancient Mew is pure nostalgia. Distributed to moviegoers at Pokémon the Movie 2000, it features runic text and a unique card back never used again in the TCG. Values have bounced around recently, with a big spike from $60 to over $90 last year, now plateauing at about $85. It’s not tournament legal, but that doesn’t matter — this is a card that embodies the magic of the early days of Pokémon, and one that will always draw eyes when you flip through a binder.
5. Rayquaza VMAX TG20/TG30 (Silver Tempest Trainer Gallery) Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyCurrent price: $135 | Market price: $118.55 | Last sold: $65.68
Rayquaza is one of the most beloved legendaries in Pokémon history, and its Silver Tempest Trainer Gallery VMAX card is a stunning showcase. Starting at just under $40 in late 2024, it doubled by Jan and has only gone up since, hitting $135 today. With its powerful Azure Pulse ability and flashy artwork, this card captures everything people love about Rayquaza. Silver Tempest has become a set to watch, and cards like this are leading the charge.
4. Mewtwo VSTAR GG44/GG70 (Crown Zenith Galarian Gallery) Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyCurrent price: $199 | Market price: $208.80 | Last sold: $199.99
Having Mewtwo and Charizard locked in battle on a single card was always going to be a hit. This Crown Zenith chase card started around $50 in Sept 2024 and more than doubled in early 2025, now pushing $200. It’s part of a twin artwork pairing with Charizard VSTAR, and the combination makes both cards more desirable. For me, this one represents the perfect crossover of nostalgia and modern collector demand.
3. Latias ex - 239/191 (Surging Sparks) Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyCurrent price: $189 | Market price: $175.76 | Last sold: $175.99
Latias ex Special Illustration Rare has been a rollercoaster ride in terms of value. It peaked at $264 in late 2024 before dropping as low as $150 when Surging Sparks product flooded the market, and now it’s back up around $189. What makes this card special is its twinned art with Latios IR, forming a display-worthy duo. Beyond that, Latias is a fan favorite, and its Skyliner ability adds a touch of playability. This is one of those cards that feels undervalued in the long run.
2. Greninja ex - 214/167 (Twilight Masquerade) Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyCurrent price: $342.44 | Market price: $346.17 | Last sold: $320.72
Greninja is easily one of the most popular starters of the modern era, and its Special Illustration Rare from Twilight Masquerade has been nothing short of wild in terms of market movement. After climbing as high as $410 earlier this year, it dipped to $260 before rebounding to over $340. Graded 10 copies are approaching $1,000, which is insane for a modern card. The artwork, the competitive relevance, and the fanbase make this a must-have.
1. Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat 085 Promo Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyCurrent price: $700.78 | Market price: $492.50 | Last sold: $699.99
This is the crown jewel of my collection. The so-called “Van Gogh Pikachu” caused chaos when it was released at the Van Gogh x Pokémon exhibit, and later through Pokémon Center orders. What started at under $100 a year ago has exploded to nearly $700 today, with no signs of slowing down. It’s not just about scarcity — it’s about the cultural crossover between Pokémon and art. This is one of those cards that transcends the TCG and destined to hit $1,000 sooner rather than later.
Stephen Colbert mocks Donald Trumps lack of Emmys
Stephen Colbert returned to The Late Show on Tuesday, fresh from a standing ovation and the first Emmy the show has ever won (seriously, how?).
After dedicating the award for Outstanding Talk Series to his staff, from the production team to the writers, The Late Show band to wardrobe, thanking the viewers, and shouting out his fellow nominees Jon Stewart and Jimmy Kimmel, Colbert reminded the audience of one person who hasn't got one of these shiny awards.
"Speaking of Emmys, Donald Trump doesn't have one," said Colbert, and he's accurate — the former reality TV star's show The Apprentice has won zero Emmy Awards, constantly losing to The Amazing Race and prompting Trump to play the "rigged" card. When Colbert hosted the 2017 Emmy Awards, he roasted the newly elected president.
SEE ALSO: John Oliver gleefully fantasises about Jimmy Kimmel beating Stephen Colbert at the EmmysIn July, The Late Show host announced that CBS had cancelled his show the same week he'd accused parent company Paramount of paying a "big fat bribe" to Trump. The president responded, "I absolutely love that Colbert got fired."
Score the Hisense 65-inch E6 Cinema Series QLED 4K TV for its lowest-ever price at Amazon
SAVE OVER $100: As of Sept. 17, the Hisense 65-inch E6 Cinema Series QLED 4K TV is on sale for $416.99 at Amazon. This is $133 off its list price of $549.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 65-Inch E6 Cinema Series QLED 4K UHD TV $416.99 at Amazon$549.99 Save $133 Get Deal
The next big wave of sale events are on the horizon — kicking off with Prime Big Deal Days in October — but that doesn't mean there aren't any good deals worth checking out right now. Even ahead of its next sale, Amazon's offering some excellent discounts, including on TVs. If you've been looking for an upgrade, the Hisense 65-inch E6 Cinema Series QLED 4K TV has dropped back to its best-ever price.
The Hisense 65-inch E6 Cinema Series QLED 4K TV is currently marked down to $416.99. This is 24% off its usual list price of $549.99, saving you $133 in total. Again, it also marks its lowest price yet, so now is as good a time as any to get your hands on it.
SEE ALSO: What to look for when buying a TV, as told through this easy TV specs guideNo matter if you're using it for a movie night, gaming, or to binge-watch a TV show, this Hisense TV boasts excellent picture quality for you to enjoy thanks to 4K resolution and QLED Color to make every scene look vibrant and rich. It also comes with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos to further elevate the picture and sound, and it even features Filmmaker Mode for movie fans looking to watch their favorites with the settings the filmmaker intended.
It's also smart. So if you're someone who frequently uses streaming services, this Hisense TV can keep everything in one convenient location for you.
Don't miss out on this limited-time deal on the Hisense 65-inch E6 Cinema Series QLED 4K TV at Amazon. And if you're looking to invest in an even bigger model, you can also save on the 85-inch Samsung Neo QLED right now at Amazon.


