IT General

Teens on Instagram won't be able to broadcast Live to their friends without getting parental permission first, as Meta amps up youth safety features for its Teen Accounts across all its platforms.

In addition to stronger restrictions on going Live for youth under the age of 16, the platform now requires teens get parental consent to turn off content moderation filters that blur images containing suspected nudity in direct messages — adding to a suite of safety features announced last year.

And it's not just for Instagram now: The parent company will also begin rolling out Teen Accounts to Facebook and Messenger today (April 8). Parental supervision for Teen Accounts can be accessed on Meta's Family Center.

SEE ALSO: Five years of remote work changed workplace accessibility. Employees with disabilities will feel its loss.

Teen Accounts have quickly become Meta's flagship youth product, said Tara Hopkins, global director of public policy at Instagram. "Everything our youth teams are building is being built under our Best Interests of the Child Framework. Then it goes through a multi-framework youth review, and finally it's looked at through Teen Accounts," Hopkins explained to Mashable. "We're going to be increasingly using Teen Accounts as an umbrella, moving all of our [youth safety] settings into it. Anything that parents are adjacent to, that we think parents are going to be worried about or have questions about will be moved under Teen Accounts."

Parents can now supervise Teen Accounts on Facebook and Messenger. Credit: Meta Parents and teens will be notified of settings changes. Credit: Meta

According to Meta, more than 54 million teens have been moved into a restricted Teen Account since the initial rollout, with 97 percent of users under the age of 16 keeping the platform's default security settings. Teens 13-15 have stronger restrictions, including requiring parental permission to make any adjustments to the platform's youth accounts. Meta users aged 16 years and older have more flexibility to change their settings at will.

Meta is cleaning up its youth safety image

The company launched Teen Accounts for Instagram in September, part of an app-wide overhaul of its teen safety offerings that centralized security and content restrictions under one platform banner. Teen Accounts are automatically set to private, have limited messaging capabilities, and built-in screen time controls — Instagram also limits (but doesn't ban) ad targeting for teen users. New users are now placed into a Teen Account by default, while existing teen users are still in the process of being transferred over.

Meta said finding and transitioning existing accounts remains difficult. The company has previously stated it is developing an in-house, AI-powered technology to help detect teen accounts that have bypassed the automatic rollout or that have incorrect birthdays, in addition to current age verification processes. The effort, Hopkins explained, is part of a "more precautionary principle" taken up by the company in recent years, in order to "take off the pressure" from parents who have had to remain more vigilant in the past.

Stronger content restrictions have become a hot topic for Meta, with ongoing concerns about children being exposed to harmful or explicit content. Meta has spent years reconciling demands to curb widespread misinformation and harassment across its platforms.

But while Meta cracks down on youth endangerment, the company has reversed course on content moderation and safety generally, including slashing its third-party fact-checking team, cutting DEI programs, and gutting its hateful conduct policy.

SAVE $15: As of April 8, the Kindle Essentials Bundle - which comes with a 2024 matcha colored Kindle, a matcha colored fabric cover, and a power adapter - is on sale for $146.97. This is 9% off its listed price of $161.97.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kindle Kindle Essentials Bundle including Kindle (2024 release) - Matcha, Fabric Cover - Matcha, and Power Adapter $146.97 at Amazon
$161.97 Save $15 Get Deal

If you're an avid reader, a Kindle can be a great investment to work through some exciting new books. I picked up the standard Kindle last year and have really enjoyed getting stuck in fun new stories ever since. If you've been hoping to grab one, we've got good news: you can save on the Kindle Essentials Bundle right now at Amazon.

The Kindle Essentials Bundle comes with a matcha colored Kindle (the latest release), a matcha colored fabric cover, and a power adapter for $146.97. This is $15 off its listed price of $161.97, which is how much it would cost you to buy each of those items separately. It's a nice little deal to take advantage of, setting you up with everything you need to start your reading adventure.

SEE ALSO: The JBL Clip 5 is back down to its lowest price this year

If you're frequently on the go, this Kindle is the perfect size to come with you. No matter where I'm going I've been able to fit it perfectly into a purse or backpack. It boasts a six-inch, glare-free screen and an extra-long battery life that can last you up to six weeks. It also has 16GB of storage so you can stock up on a huge variety of books to fill up your digital library.

With the weather getting warmer, now's a great time to pick up a Kindle and spend some time reading outside. Don't miss out on this deal on the Kindle Essentials Bundle to get everything you need all at once.

There are a few more deals on Amazon devices that are worth checking out right now as well. In particular, you can also score a great discount at the moment on the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K if you're looking to upgrade your streaming setup.

SAVE $50: As of April 8, ASUS ROG Falchion NX Wireless Gaming Keyboard is available for $99.99 at Amazon. That’s 33% off its regular price of $149.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS ROG Falchion NX Wireless Gaming Keyboard $99.96 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $50.03 Get Deal

If I ever disappear into the mechanical keyboard subreddit and don’t come back, just know it all started with ASUS ROG Falchion NX. It’s a wireless 65% mechanical keyboard that somehow manages to cram arrow keys, nav keys, and a weirdly addictive touch panel into a compact frame — and right now, it’s $50 off at Amazon.

This thing is selling for $99.99 instead of its usual $149.99, which feels like a setup. As in, I'm being tempted by my own typing preferences. The model on sale uses ASUS’s NX Red linear switches, which are smooth, fast, and feel exactly like you'd expect from a keyboard that looks like it costs rent. (In this case, it costs significantly less than rent, and I’m not mad about it.)

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

The interactive touch panel on the side is the kind of gimmick I’d normally ignore, except it’s actually good. You can slide your finger to adjust volume, flip through apps, or just fidget with it while pretending you’re doing something productive. There's also per-key RGB lighting, because it’s 2025 and we’ve all accepted that our peripherals should glow like rave flyers.

It connects wirelessly over 2.4GHz RF or via USB, with up to 450 hours of battery life if you’re cool with turning the lights off. I’m not, but still — that’s an absurd number. You also get doubleshot PBT keycaps and a carrying case that doubles as a keyboard protector. It’s almost like ASUS knew I’d be tempted to toss this in a bag for no good reason.

• Price: $99.99 $149.99

• Retailer: Amazon

• Color Options: Black

• Keyboard Layout: 65% compact (68 keys)

• Switch Type: ROG NX Red linear mechanical switches

• Keycaps: Doubleshot PBT

• Connectivity: USB wired and 2.4GHz wireless

• Battery Life: Up to 450 hours (with RGB off)

• Features: Interactive touch panel, per-key RGB with Wireless Aura Sync

• Extras: Includes keyboard cover case for travel/protection

I think this is one of the better sub-$100 mechanical keyboard deals I’ve seen in a while. It’s flashy without being ridiculous, compact without sacrificing function, and durable enough to handle rage-typing during a sweaty Apex match.

SAVE $25: As of April 8, ASUS ROG Spatha X Wireless Gaming Mouse is available for $124.99 at Amazon. That’s 17% off its regular price of $149.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS ROG Spatha X Wireless Gaming Mouse $124.99 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $25.00 Get Deal

I’ll admit it: I used to think “more buttons” on a mouse was just a flex for MMORPG players who assign macros like their life depends on it. Then I claw gripped an ASUS ROG Spatha X, and now I’m a convert. With 12 programmable buttons, a 19,000 DPI sensor, and a ridiculously slick magnetic charging stand, this mouse isn’t just overkill — it’s the kind of overkill I crave.

Right now, it’s 17 percent off at Amazon, bringing the price down to $124.99. Still a premium mouse, yes, but considering what’s packed into it, I think it’s a fair price for something that basically moonlights as a spaceship.

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

Let’s start with the basics. It works wired or wireless, and the 2.4GHz RF connection doesn’t make me rage about lag. It’s responsive, fast, and precise. The optical sensor can crank up to 19,000 DPI, which is more than I’ll probably ever need, but I do enjoy the power trip. Plus, you can adjust DPI on the fly with a scroll-wheel toggle. No software menus. No nonsense.

I’m also a fan of how it charges. You get a magnetic dock that feels like it belongs on a sci-fi movie set. And the battery life? Sixty-seven hours on a full charge. Or just plug it in for 15 minutes and you’ve got 12 hours of juice. I have houseplants with a more demanding care routine.

• Price: $124.99 $149.99

• Retailer: Amazon

• Color Options: Black

• Connectivity: Dual-mode (USB-C and 2.4GHz wireless)

• DPI Sensor: 19,000 DPI optical sensor

• Buttons: 12 programmable buttons

• Switches: ROG Micro Switches with hot-swap sockets

• Charging: Magnetic charging stand and USB-C cable

• Battery Life: Up to 67 hours on full charge; 12 hours with 15-minute quick charge

• Special Features: On-the-fly DPI adjustment, Aura RGB lighting

The button layout is honestly ideal if you’re into MOBAs or just hate reaching for hotkeys. And the hot-swap switch sockets mean you can swap out the mouse switches without breaking out the soldering iron. I haven’t done it yet, but knowing I could if I wanted to? Love that for me.

All that plus customizable Aura RGB lighting, because of course. If your mouse isn’t glowing like a nightclub, are you even gaming?

SAVE $20: As of April 8, ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless Gaming Headphones are available for $79.99 at Amazon. That’s 20% off their regular $99.99 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless Gaming Headphones $79.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $20 Get Deal

A solid pair of gaming earbuds with real features for under $80? I think I just found the unicorn of wireless audio. ASUS ROG Cetra True Wireless Gaming Headphones are currently 20 percent off at Amazon, knocking the price down to $79.99 from the usual $99.99. For earbuds that look sleek, sound sharp, and somehow cater to both casual listeners and sweaty-thumbed gamers, this feels like a rare moment of capitalist kindness.

What I like most is that these earbuds aren’t trying too hard. They just do the thing. Gaming mode gives you low-latency audio so your Fortnite jump scares sync up with the chaos on screen. No audio delay to ruin your perfectly-timed shotgun blast. And the hybrid active noise cancelation actually works, so I can block out my neighbor’s dog (who has apparently discovered barking as a new lifestyle).

SEE ALSO: Apple announces WWDC 2025 dates

Then there’s the battery life. ASUS claims up to 27 hours total with the case, which is either a tech miracle or a subtle reminder that I need to stop binge-watching Twitch streams. The wireless charging case is also a win — I’ve reached the point where plugging things in feels like too much effort, and this setup respects that.

These earbuds are compatible with everything from the PlayStation 5 to your phone, so I don’t have to commit to one ecosystem. I can rage-quit a game on my Switch, pick up a call on my iPhone, then watch YouTube on my laptop without switching gear. That’s the kind of chaos I aspire to.

• Price: $79.99 $99.99

• Retailer: Amazon

• Color Options: White, Black

• Form Factor: In-ear

• Connectivity: Bluetooth with low-latency gaming mode

• Battery Life: Up to 27 hours with charging case

• Charging: Supports wireless and USB-C charging

• Noise Cancelation: Hybrid active noise cancelation (ANC)

• Water Resistance: IPX4-rated (splash-resistant)

• Compatibility: PC, Mac, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, mobile devices

And in case you’re wondering: yes, they’re also water-resistant. IPX4 won’t save you if you drop them in a lake, but it’ll handle a drizzle or some gym sweat without issue. Not that I’ve been to a gym in months, but it’s nice to pretend.

For $79.99, I don’t think you’ll find another pair of gaming earbuds this feature-packed. Unless you count the knockoff ones that sound like they were tuned inside a tin can. I say skip the drama and snag the ROG Cetras while they’re marked down.

SAVE $200 : As of April 8, the Google Pixel 9 is on sale for $699.99 at Amazon. That's a 22% savings on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 9 $649.75 at Amazon
$799 Save $149.25 Get Deal

Amazon's Daily Deals is the perfect place for discounts and deals. You'll find lots of great bargains on anything from TVs to smartphones. But we really love this latest deal on the Google Pixel 9. It's a great all-rounder — just check out our review to see what we thought.

As of April 8, you can find this model at Amazon for 22% off, now just $699.99. This deal is for the 256GB option is available across all colorways.

This smartphone includes a 6.3-inch OLED display with vibrant colors as well as the latest Google Tensor chip for fast, non-laggy performance. It has dual rear cameras to take incredible pictures, both in bright and low light.

This model also features Gemini, Google's next-generation AI technology. It offers assistance with tools including advanced photo editing such as Magic Eraser and Face Unblur, enhanced voice recognition for dictation, and Google Assistant capabilities. It also uses real-time translation to allow for seamless language support in messaging or live conversations, and it even powers predictive text.

Head to Amazon to upgrade now.

SAVE $20: As of April 8, the Amazon Fire Stick 4K is on sale at Amazon for $29.99. That's a 40% discount on the list price.

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

We're big fans of Amazon's Fire Stick here at Mashable. Big things come in small packages, as they say, and this nifty little device can turn nearly any TV into a smart TV for much less than buying something outright. It's a streaming device that plugs into your TV (or laptop) and lets you access platforms, including Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and more. It comes with a remote with Alexa built-in and is currently less than $30.

As of April 8, the newest model of the Fire Stick 4K is reduced by 40%, now priced at just $20.99.

And there's no complicated setup for this device. These handy remotes are so simple to use that anyone can do it. Just pop the device into your TV's HDMI port, and that's it. You'll have instant access to a range of streaming platforms as well as many live channels.

And with the Fire Stick 4K, you can enjoy incredible 4K Ultra HD visuals with advanced HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+. This model also boasts a much more powerful processor and enhanced Dolby Atmos support than its predecessor, ensuring a smoother performance and better quality sound.

This deal is only available for a limited time, so move fast so you don't miss out.

SAVE $320: As of April 8, the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop is on sale for $379.99 at Amazon. This saves you 46% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot $379.99 at Amazon
$699.99 Save $320 Get Deal

Anything that reduces your chore list is a plus in our book, so we're big fans of robot vacuums. With that being said, you need to check out this latest deal on this Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo.

As of April 8, you can take home this impressive model for $320 less than usual, now $379.99.

This is a great vacuum because it doesn't just pick up dirt; it mops your floors, too. It uses Sonic Mopping to scrub hard floors 100 times per minute, and if you know it's about to encounter an extra deep stain, head to the app and initiate Matrix Mop to get 50% better stain cleaning in certain spots.

It is also equipped with an impressive precision matrix grid, meaning it takes multiple passes over dirt and debris to ensure it is all removed. And the smart features don't end there: the CleanEdge Detect system uses blasts of air and corner recognition to remove debris from edges and corners pulling the debris into the cleaning path. Plus, there's no need to manually map out the path for this vacuum because it uses 360-degree LiDAR vision to learn your space, detect obstacles, and pick up dirt.

Like all high-end vacuums worth shouting about, this machine self-empties, self-charges, and holds up to 60 days' worth of dirt, limiting your work even further. The base is bagless, so it is both useful and environmentally friendly as it eliminates the need for waste bags.

This is only a limited-time deal at Amazon, so act quickly so you don't miss out.

Connections is a game from the New York Times that challenges you to find the association between words. It sounds easy, but it isn't—Connections categories can be almost anything, and they're usually quite specific. If you need a hand getting the answers, we've got you covered.

TL;DR: Sleep tight with a pair of SleepEEZ Noise-Blocking Wireless Earbuds on sale for $25.99 (reg. $34).

Between loud roommates, snoring partners, kids, and neighbors with no concept of a normal time to vacuum, it's a wonder anyone gets any sleep at all. If you want to shut out the noise when you're getting some shuteye, pop in a pair of SleepEEZ Mini Noise-Blocking Earbuds.

These comfortable nighttime earbuds block the noises that keep you awake and replace them with soothing white noise, ASMR, podcasts, audiobooks, music, and even guided meditation. They're also on sale for $25.99 (reg. $34). 

Sleep through the noise

These earbuds are designed to help you tune out the world and drift off. They're small and light, so they're comfortable no matter how you sleep, and they stay put all night.

Neighbor's having a party? These sleep earbuds cut out about 20 decibels of noise, which is enough to take the edge off snoring or traffic. They also play soothing sounds, whether you prefer white noise, ASMR, or your own music. You can even set a timer so they turn off automatically.

They connect easily via Bluetooth, and you can take calls with them, too. The touch controls are simple to use. And with the included different-sized ear tips, you can find the right fit.

Plus, the charging case gives you extra hours of playtime, and they're even a little water-resistant, which really comes in handy during the hot season. 

Get a pair of SleepEEZ Mini Noise-Blocking Wireless Earbuds while they're on sale for $25.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: HyperGear SleepEEZ Mini Noise-Blocking True Wireless Earbuds for Sleeping $25.99
$34.99 Save $9.00 Get Deal

TL;DR: Stop hunting down electrical outlets midday with help from the Power Brick 24000mAh AC Laptop Power Bank, now $114.99 (reg. $149) for a limited time.

Small portable chargers are great, but they typically don't have that much juice. If you're looking for a charging solution that can fully power up your laptop, smartphone, and more, check out the Power Brick 24000mAh AC Laptop Power Bank. It's on sale now for $114.99 (reg. $149). 

Enjoy full-power laptop charging and more with this power brick

The dreaded low battery notification always seems to happen when you're right in the middle of something. Instead of letting a dead battery derail your momentum, make sure you can power up anywhere with the Power Brick 24,000mAh AC Laptop Power Bank.

With a powerful 24,000mAh battery, this power bank can fully recharge your laptop on the go. And it's universally compatible and ready to charge four devices simultaneously. 

This power bank features a built-in AC outlet that delivers up to 100W, making it perfect for laptops and gaming consoles. It also includes three additional fast-charging ports, a 65W USB-C, and two high-power USB-A outlets for tablets, smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets. 

An LED battery indicator lets you know how much juice you have left on the Power Brick. And once it's out of juice, you can use pass-through USB charging and still charge your devices while it powers back up. 

This power bank can tag along on your next trip, too, as it meets airline safety regulations. It's also great to have on hand in an emergency thanks to its built-in flashlight. 

Keep all your devices charged up anywhere with the Power Brick 24000mAh AC Laptop Power Bank, now just $114.99 (reg. $149).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: HyperGear Power Brick 24000mAh AC Laptop Power Bank $114.99
$149 Save $34.01 Get Deal

TL;DR: Get a good view from anywhere with this high definition monocular telescope, now $22.97, 58% off, through April 27.

The weather is warming up. If you want a reason to get outside more, this high definition monocular telescope can help. This portable, compact gadget lets you see the world in a whole new way, and right now, it's on sale for $22.97 (reg. $54). 

This portable telescope makes sure you always have a good view

Want front-row seats but have a nosebleeds budget? That's no problem with the high definition monocular telescope — it lets you get up close and personal from anywhere.

Say goodbye to blurry zoomed-in concert pics. Whether you're on a hike or your favorite singer's concert, you can connect your telescope to your smartphone to take photos and videos of your magnified view. 

This telescope delivers 50x60 magnification, which lets you see someone's face from 1,000 meters away or read text on a building up to 3,000 meters away with this telescope.

It weighs under 14 ounces, and it's compact enough to bring along anywhere. And you don't have to be too careful thanks to the high-quality construction, which features BAK4 prism glass and fully coated optics. 

Unlike many telescopes, this high definition monocular telescope works for all users, even those with glasses, thanks to the convenient swing-up eyepiece. 

Make sure you can get a good look from anywhere with this high definition monocular telescope, now only $22.97 through April 27.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mesay High Definition Monocular Telescope $22.97
$54.99 Save $32.02 Get Deal

TL;DR: Bring your old car's entertainment system into 2025 with the PlayAIBox Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Wireless Adapter, now $74.97 (reg. $129) through April 27.

Road trip season is right around the corner. Is your car's entertainment system ready? 

If you want to be able to watch streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, and Disney+ on your car's display without having to spend the big bucks on a fancy new car, the PlayAIBox Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Wireless Adapter is the next best thing. And right now, it's on sale for $74.97 (reg. $129) through April 27. 

Upgrade your ride with the PlayAIBox

Drive safer and stay entertained with the PlayAIBox. There are no cords to be annoyed with, so you can enjoy wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for hands-free calls, navigation, music, and voice assistance, all seamlessly connected to your smartphone.

The PlayAIBox has a built-in Google Play store so that you can add apps like Netflix, YouTube, or Disney+ right to the device. And its Allwinner A133 chip lets you enjoy multiple apps at once without lag. 

Can't find the content you're looking for? You can also mirror your smartphone screen for serious versatility or store media on external SD cards up to 128GB. (Just make sure you're always adhering to local laws regarding video playback.)

This device is compatible with 98% of car models from 2016 on, so there's a high probability it can work for your vehicle. It may not work with cars that already have built-in wireless CarPlay/Android Auto Support (as well as select BMW, Tesla, Mazda, and Nissan models). 

Give your car an upgrade with the PlayAIBox Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Wireless Adapter, now just $74.97 (reg. $129) through April 27. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart PlayAIBox Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Wireless Adapter with Streaming Service Support $74.97
$129.99 Save $55.02 Get Deal

The day after I turned my read receipts on, a guy I had gone on a couple of dates with texted me. "I don’t know if it was intentional, but your read receipts are on all of a sudden." His text wasn’t accusatory, but the change had certainly struck a chord. He seemed to imply that if I had turned them on, it must be a mistake. Surely no one would willingly admit to leaving people unanswered for hours on end. 

Poll a group of friends and you’ll realize: Most people hate read receipts. And yet they shape a surprising amount of our digital behavior. In a 2017 study in the Journal of Media, Cognition, and Communication, nearly half of the respondents said that read receipts made them feel either ignored (34.7 percent) or anxious while waiting for a reply (13.9 percent). Only 11.9 percent said they didn’t care. While dating, those feelings are dialed up. Participants said they were far more aware of read receipts in conversations with a romantic interest than with family, friends, or workers.

SEE ALSO: What do we owe our online dating matches?

In today’s hyperconnected world, it’s already easy to assume someone sees a message within minutes. But without a read receipt, there’s plausible deniability — we can tell ourselves they just haven’t checked their phone yet. (And let’s be honest: people have been rationalizing delayed responses since the days of love letters.) The second those tiny words — Read at 3:42 PM — appear, that illusion is shattered. It’s why some people swear by them as a tool for clear communication while others see them as a fuel for anxiety. 

Read receipts have been around for a while: Apple introduced them to iMessage in 2011, and Instagram followed in 2013 with a little “seen” tag at the bottom of DMs. 

How do people feel about read receipts?

Opinions have been divided ever since. Some people leave them on as a gesture of transparency. Others immediately started gaming the system: iPhone users figured out how to hold down a text thread to preview a message without marking it read. Snapchat users half-swiped — dragging a chat halfway across the screen to peek at the message without opening it. 

Yet in recent years, our expectations around response time have escalated. “We are such an instant gratification culture with social media,” says Christina Scott, professor of social psychology and relationship researcher at Whittier College. Six years ago, waiting a day to respond was normal. But then the pandemic hit. We went from checking our phones periodically to having them become a permanent extension of our hands. Now, a work meeting is no longer a valid excuse for silence. A three-hour delay can feel unbearable. “Response time — especially for kids and young adults and people dating — is everything,” says Dr. Don Grant, media psychologist and national advisor of healthy device management at Newport Healthcare. “It's a game. People determine how they rank and what their importance is to others on how quickly people respond.” 

SEE ALSO: Why some people on dating apps just want to be 'pen pals'

Grant recalls a recent session with a client who had texted a woman after a first date. “She didn’t respond to him till the next day. He was losing his mind,” he says. Her eventual response was positive — she would love to see him again — but he had spent the past 24 hours unraveling, thinking he had been ghosted. “Now, he says he doesn’t trust her,” says Grant. It raised questions like Why would she wait? What was the problem? “That's hard because so early on, it's not really socially acceptable to ask those questions,” he adds.  

Scott says that the problem arises when we attribute the behavior to a person’s character, instead of their situation (like being in a meeting or getting distracted by another task.) “We can start blaming the other person, like they're not a good person, they didn't take this seriously, which can be triggering for us,” says Scott. “Or we can flip it back on ourselves: they don't think I'm important enough, there's something wrong with me, and it triggers our own anxiety.” 

For people with anxiety, it can feel like a “tsunami of emotions”, says Scott, but anyone can be affected depending on context. If your last relationship ended due to poor communication, you may be hypersensitive to delays in a new one. “But this person that you’re just starting a conversation with doesn't know that you’re bringing in this emotional baggage,” she adds. 

"I want people to know I’m ignoring them on purpose. You can know I absolutely did see it but, yeah, I’m choosing to not respond."

Jordan, a 30-year-old bartender in New York, has experienced this from the other side. “I be getting cussed out,” he showed me as he swiped through a long chain of messages from a woman he was seeing, each one more accusatory than the last. The intensity pushed him away.  

The emotional toll of being left on read

It’s hard to stay calm when so much of our sense of self worth is tied to our digital interactions. We don’t just want to be acknowledged — we want to be prioritized. And when someone reads our message and doesn’t respond, it can feel like they’re subtly saying we don’t matter that much. That sting of perceived rejection? It hits the same dopamine and self-esteem circuits that social media was built to manipulate.

Some people know this, and lean in — weaponizing read receipts as a subtle power move to appear less interested or more in demand. “I love read receipts,” says Alice,* a single woman based in Colorado. “I want people to know I’m ignoring them on purpose. You can know I absolutely did see it but, yeah, I’m choosing to not respond.” That kind of deliberate ambiguity can make the other person chase harder, tipping the scale of who cares more.

If you’re playing that game, be careful: “We teach people how to treat us. And they teach us how to treat them,” says Grant. In other words, if you set the tone, you can’t be surprised when it’s mirrored back.

"We have collectively decided that when someone texts or messages us, it is a 911 emergency that needs to be responded to right away."

While all of this emotional upheaval is understandable, it also misses a larger truth: This is the first time in history where we’re expected to be reachable by everyone at all times — no matter our relationship. “We have collectively decided that when someone texts or messages us, it is a 911 emergency that needs to be responded to right away,” says Grant. “And usually it's not.” Sometimes, people just don’t have the bandwidth for yet another conversation. (Yes, even if they’re clearly online. Scrolling doesn’t require the same energy as engaging with someone.) 

Why do we expect an immediate reply to our texts?

“Whenever we communicate with anyone, we are selecting when it's convenient for us,” Grant adds. It’s still acceptable to pick up a call and say, “Can I call you back?”, but for some reason, that boundary hasn’t carried over to texting. While dating, we often get wrapped up in our own timeline, without considering that the other person’s headspace might not match our own. What if they’re anxious, overwhelmed, or just having a bad day? Do we really want to deal with someone’s worst moods so early on? 

Yet a new connection might assume that if you’ve read a message, you owe them a reply. It can start to feel like emotional labor you never signed up for.  For some, leaving read receipts on is a way to push back against that pressure — to say: Yes, I saw it. And I’ll respond when I’m ready. But early on, it can be hard to tell whether someone is setting boundaries or establishing control.

As we navigate the modern dating world, read receipts aren’t going anywhere. Managing our reactions to them might be the only way to stay sane. “Take a break, put your phone down, go have lunch with someone, go try to find validation somewhere else and come back,” says Scott. “Odds are they'll write back to you in a little while. It may just not be as fast as you wanted them to.” 

But also — trust your intuition. If something feels off with someone’s communication, it probably is. “Remember: you're just getting to know this person,” says Scott. “Manage your expectations and don't let anything that they do shake the foundation of who you know you are.” If someone consistently makes you feel small, you don’t need a timestamp to know it’s time to move on.

*Name changed for anonymity 

TL;DR: Bring home this Lenovo 300E 11.6" Touchscreen Chromebook for just $79.99 (reg. $284). 

Looking for a laptop that's actually affordable? How about one that's less than $100? Right now, you can get a Lenovo touchscreen Chromebook for just $79.99 — over $200 off the usual price — while supplies last. 

This truly affordable laptop offers plenty of perks

Don't be deceived by this super low price; this Lenovo Chromebook is still packed with power and ready to help you tackle work or play. 

An Intel N3450 Quad-Core Processor proves great speed for daily use, while the 4GB of RAM allows you to run multiple programs at once. 32GB of storage is available to save important data right on your device. 

Want to sit back and relax? Enjoy your content in crisp detail with a 1366x768 resolution while the built-in Intel UHD Graphics 500 ensures smooth image and video processing. And you can access all your usual apps thanks to the Chrome operating system.

If you're wondering how you're securing such a great deal, it's because this model comes with a grade B refurbished rating. That means you may see light scuffing on the bevel or case or light scratches or dents on the body, but otherwise, this device will arrive as good as new. 

Act fast to snag this Lenovo 300E 11.6" Touchscreen Chromebook for just $79.99 (reg. $284). 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo 300E 11.6" Touchscreen Chromebook (2018) 4GB RAM 32GB Storage (Refurbished) $79.99
$284.99 Save $205 Get Deal

Sexting (aka dirty talk, swapping nudes, raunchy audio messages, etc.) is finally getting the recognition it deserves as a beneficial way to connect with your partner(s) on a deeper level, especially when you’re not physically together.

And it’s not just a feeling — recent studies are showing the tangible benefits of sexting. One March 2025 review (which looked at 70 scientific papers on the benefits of sexting) found that the perks of consensual sexting generally fall into three categories: individual benefits from the act itself (like exploring your desires, safe experimentation, and both sexual and non-sexual pleasure), individual benefits from your partner’s reaction (think validation, feeling better about your body/self, and owning your sexual agency), and relational benefits (like feeling way more connected emotionally and sexually, or even using it to bridge gaps when apart).

SEE ALSO: A beginner's guide to sexting What is sexting, exactly?

If you’re unfamiliar with the term, that’s OK! Sexting is basically “sex” and “texting” mashed together. It could mean sending sexy snaps, video or audio clips, or even just writing out a steamy message.

A long time ago, sexting was something you’d only hear about when someone was having an affair or a celebrity’s nudes were leaked. But nowadays, it’s the norm for plenty of couples and single people alike.

Whether you’re in a committed relationship, single and swiping, looking for a regular sexting buddy, or wanting to amp up your solo sesh with steamy instructions from an AI companion, sexting offers a healthy way to explore your sexuality and often leads to a more fulfilling physical and emotional experience.

SEE ALSO: The cherry emoji and 14 other emoji you can use to sext Where can I find someone to sext? 

Good news: You definitely don't need to be partnered up to find someone to sext with. There are plenty of apps (and websites) out there designed to connect you with people looking for some digital heat, often pretty quickly.

Just be sure to keep an eye out for sketchy platforms, bots, and catfishing scams. Finding safe, reliable, and genuinely fun options is exactly why curated recommendations (like the ones below!) are so helpful.

The best sexting apps of 2025

Based on our real-world use (yep, we actually signed up and used 'em!), these are the top contenders for safe, fun, and effective sexting in 2025. You might even recognize some from our guides to the best dating apps and hookup apps.

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, 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 the latest 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 Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow: In the ballpark

• Green: Pigskin plans

• Blue: They wanna go fast

• Purple: Same second word.

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Places at a baseball field

• Green: Football plays

• Blue: Active F1 Drivers

• Purple: ____ runner

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 Sports Edition #197 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Places at a baseball field - BULLPEN, DUGOUT, MOUND, WARNING TRACK

• Football plays - FLEA FLICKER, HAIL MARY, STATUE OF LIBERTY, TUSH PUSH

• Active F1 drivers - GASLY, HAMILTON, NORRIS, STROLL

• ____ runner - FRONT, GHOST, LONG-DISTANCE, PINCH

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Tuesday, April 8, 2025:

AcrossOnly rock that humans regularly eat

• The answer is Salt.

Ten-legged sea creature

• The answer is Crab.

Ones who might be "cheesed off" (annoyed) or "chuffed to bits" (happy)

• The answer is Brits.

Right-E?

• The answer is East.

Fencing sword

• The answer is Epee.

DownThrow in the trash

• The answer is Scrap.

Come up

• The answer is Arise.

Caffè ___ (espresso drink)

• The answer is Latte.

Cable channel that airs March Madness games

• The answer is TBS.

Busy buzzer

• The answer is Bee.

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

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

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

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

With The Last of Us Season 2 only a few days away, it's time for a recap of what happened in the first season. And what better way to do it than via a rap from Bella Ramsey herself, who joins Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show in the clip above.

"There's a girl named Ellie, she's a lot of fun / She's got a lot of knives, and even worse, puns," raps Ramsey, jumping through Season 1's key events in less than a minute.

"We meet Bill and Frank, their love was awesome," raps Fallon.

"Didn't think I could cry over Ron Swanson," responds Ramsey.

People are rushing to Apple stores to buy iPhones ahead of possible price hikes, a new report claims.

According to Bloomberg, Apple retail stores across the U.S. have registered increased shopping activity over the weekend, with shoppers "panic-buying" iPhones.

"Almost every customer asked me if prices were going to go up soon," one Apple employee told Bloomberg.

The shoppers are worried about iPhone prices increasing due to the wide-ranging set of tariffs that the Trump administration recently imposed on China and many other countries. In one calculation, the iPhone 16 could go up from $799 to $1,142, and the most expensive model could cost as much as $2,300. The iPhone is mostly produced in China, which was hit with a 54 percent tariff.

These calculations could be way off. Trump could make some sort of trade deal with China, and even if the tariffs remain as they are, it's unclear how much of the price increase Apple would pass on to customers. Still, the sheer prospect of iPhones getting pricier is pushing some buyers to pull the trigger earlier rather than later.

SEE ALSO: Apple planning massive redesign for iPhone 19 Pro, reports say

The buying frenzy could help Apple's second quarter bottom line; the company is due to reveal its quarterly results on May 1. Following the tariffs news, Apple stock plummeted to about $182 at writing time, down from a high of just over $260 in December 2024.