IT General

Sexting (aka dirty talk, swapping nudes, sending explicit audio messages...the list goes on) is an entirely new kind of intimacy. It's a way to connect with folks on a deeper level, even if you're not physically together. And hey, who doesn't love a little teasing and digital foreplay before a long-awaited meeting?

The motivations for sexting are as varied as the act itself. Whether you're single and ravenous for some sexy screen time with a stranger, hoping to find a regular sexting buddy, in a long-distance relationship and keeping the passion alive through virtual sex, or want to amp up your solo sex toy sessions with steamy instructions from an AI companion, mastering the act (art?) of sexting leads to a more fulfilling physical and emotional experience.

Now, we're not talking about flirting with your crush on Facebook Messenger or sliding into someone's DMs on Instagram uninvited (cringe!). We're talking about good old-fashioned dirty talk with a modern twist. Think video chat, sexy snaps, and disappearing messages to keep your private information safe. We made a lot of accounts to test the best sexting apps, and we've gathered our favorites below. (You might even recognize some from our guides to the best dating apps and hookup apps.)

Once viewed as taboo, sexting is becoming a mainstream way to communicate your desires Credit: Zain Bin Awais / Mashable

A 2023 survey found that 77 percent of U.S. adults have sent at least one sext. Other research surveys have found even higher rates of sexting. Millennials are leading the charge, but they're definitely not alone in sending those naughty messages and nudes. As messaging apps get more advanced and our society gets more sex-positive, sexting has entered the mainstream in a big way.

SEE ALSO: The cherry emoji and 14 other emoji you can use to sext

Sexting isn't just a saucy way to get off; it's a great tool for building trust and intimacy. It's a chance to share your fantasies and explore your desires in a safe and consensual way. Plus, it can help you and your partner feel more connected, especially in long-distance relationships. (Think of it as foreplay for the next time you do get together IRL.)

Getting started with sexting apps

For some, just the thought of sending an explicit message or racy photo can be intimidating. (And that's OK!) Fortunately, there are so many apps and resources out there to help the most novice sexters feel empowered and confident. If you need some inspiration or tips, Mashable's Beginner's Guide To Sexting is a good place to start. Just remember: Sexting is supposed to be consensual, fun, and sexy.

To help you find the right app for your sexting style, we've narrowed down the best options in 2024. Based on our research and hands-on testing (yes, we really used them all), these are the top contenders for the best sexting apps of 2025:

As likely to make you go "aww" as "ugh," Heart Eyes is a bloody valentine to both rom-coms and horror with affection for these seemingly disparate genres. Directed by Werewolves Within and Scare Me's Josh Ruben, this is a gushy movie in both meanings of the word: You get all the mushy tropes of a sweet romance coupled with plenty of gurgling stabbings and arterial sprays. I'm not sure exactly how many moviegoers fit in the Venn diagram of loving both of these things (other than me), but Heart Eyes is a gory good time for those who are likely to swipe right on an off-kilter love story and a horror comedy. 

Heart Eyes doesn't reinvent the well-traveled wheel for either type of film. It's less indebted to a specific romantic comedy as it is the genre as a whole, paying homage to a litany of modern classics in a name-dropping monologue and to Golden-era ones with scenes from His Girl Friday playing in the background. However, its horror influences are clearer. This movie owes a lot to My Bloody Valentine in its premise, but boy, is it deep in hock to Scream, even beyond the casting of Mason Gooding who starred in the series rebootquel and Scream VI. 

Heart Eyes crosses romance movie tropes with horror movie kills. 

Here the actor plays Jay, a marketing whiz who has a meet-cute with Ally (Olivia Holt, Cloak & Dagger) in a coffee shop where they bond over their shared overly complicated coffee order. But after they bump heads (literally) in the cafe, she soon learns that he is the freelancer hired to save the day when Ally's death-centric jewelry ad campaign feels a bit too relevant to consumers. Today is February 14, and the Heart Eyes Killer has murdered numerous couples for the third Valentine's Day in a row, so people on the internet feel like her concept is insensitive. Ally is charged with coming up with a new campaign by her boss (You Hurt My Feelings' Michaela Watkins, doing an inexplicable but enjoyable Southern accent), since the commercial is getting torn to shreds by commenters.  

To salvage the brand (and Ally's career), Jay invites Ally to a working dinner on the most romantic night of the year at one of Seattle's nicest restaurants. Unfortunately, while there they catch the eye of the Heart Eyes Killer, even while insisting they're not on a date. This non-couple with enviable chemistry is stalked across the city, as Heart Eyes leaves a trail of bloody bodies while Ally and Jay get to know each other beyond first-date banter.

Gooding and Holt make for a cute couple, even if there's not much beneath the surface of their characters. 

Yet we don't ever get to know them because there's not much to these characters: Ally is a cynic who hates romance (because of trauma) and paper straws (because of sogginess), while Jay is a big ol' softy (also because of trauma) trapped in a hard body (because of Hollywood). The script is pretty predictable in its arc, given how formulaic the two genre pools it's playing in often are. It's also easy to guess the identity of Heart Eyes if you're paying just a little bit of attention. (And if you're not, Heart Eyes calls additional attention to a telling detail with a delightfully groan-worthy gag.)

But even with those issues, Heart Eyes is a blast. It's often shriekingly funny while also being pretty disgusting (complimentary). The kills are creative, though I wish the red-band trailer didn't give away one of its more inventive offings, but at least you were warned of what you were in for. Heart Eyes isn't that frightening, other than a few jump scenes, but it is nicely nasty in its volume of violence and viscera. It really earns its R rating. 

Heart Eyes may be a rom-com at heart, but it primarily takes its cues from Scream and Happy Death Day.  Credit: Christopher Moss / Screen Gems

Heart Eyes has a similar vibe to the Scream movies, with its masked slasher, winking jokes, and cheeky tone. A pair of horror stars from the '90s and '00s — Final Destination's Devon Sawa and The Faculty's Jordana Brewster — have co-starring roles, which seems like a page out of Scream's playbook too. Heart Eyes also feels of a piece with Happy Death Day and Freaky in their energy, which makes sense since its screenplay was written by Happy Death Day's Christopher Landon and his Freaky co-writer Michael Kennedy, as well as Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard co-writer Phillip Murphy. It's not as good as Happy Death Day (because few things are), but it's better than Freaky. There's a sense of glee amidst all the gore, and it isn't only from watching this could-be couple fall in love amidst all the death and destruction. You can tell these sickos (again, complimentary) had a good time making this movie, and it's an equally good time for the audience from the moment the sappy strains of Lonestar's "Amazed" play during the first kill scene.

SEE ALSO: What to watch: Best horror movies

The music and sound work here are solid, contributing to the film's twisted sense of humor and horror. Outkast's "Happy Valentine's Day" plays over a less-than-cheery montage, while David Gray's "This Year's Love" sets a wistful tone amidst all the carnage. The sound team also ably captures all the squishes and squelches of the action, both on screen and off, and Heart Eyes is audibly menacing with heavy breathing and thudding footfalls. 

Heart Eyes simultaneously has a mean streak and a soft heart, which is rare enough for an entry in the horror genre to feel a little special. Ally and Jay — and Holt and Gooding — are good together, and you're rooting for them not just to survive the night but to make it as a couple. This isn't a swooning romance (unless you're easily grossed out and likely to faint), but it's sweet enough when it counts to balance out the ickier bits. 

Heart Eyes opens in theaters Feb. 7.

In an unspoken sort of way, Roomba has been crowned "the best" robot vacuum simply because it's the most established brand in the market. But Shark has always had competitive street cred when it comes to vacuums, and its newest rounds of robot vacuums finally make Shark a force to be reckoned with among Roombas and Roborocks.

Having personally tested the top bots from Shark, iRobot, and the other big players, I picked the three best Shark robot vacuums to buy in 2025.

Are Shark robot vacuums as good as Roomba?

The short answer? It's complicated. That's not the definitive one-word answer you were hoping for, but making an unequivocal call between the two brands just wouldn't make sense. Both vacuum brands are constantly improving their product lineups and introducing new features. Both brands have several options with mopping, smart room mapping, and automatic emptying, including vacs that can do all three or offer some mix-and-match combo of those features.

So, where does Shark outperform iRobot's best Roombas? Shark has consistently put out more budget-friendly robot vacuums than iRobot, and often without skimping on the most crucial features.

SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum

Admittedly, Shark takes a little longer to roll out new features. (For instance, it was late to self-emptying, self-washing, and self-drying compared to iRobot — and everyone else, for that matter.) But when Shark does release a model with new in-demand features, it typically costs hundreds less than the competition. Even Shark's most premium robot vacuum, the Shark PowerDetect 2-in-1 with NeverTouch Pro Base, debuted at around $400 less than the most premium Roomba, the Roomba Combo 10 Max + AutoWash Dock, despite them being nearly identical in capabilities.

Shark vacuums also go on sale throughout the year, even when it's not Black Friday or Prime Day. So, don't take the prices for the Shark vacuums below too seriously — I've noted the most common sale price for each vac in "The Good" section.

Shark really shines at spot cleaning, but has one major blind spot

Sometimes, there's an unexpected mess that you want to clean without messing around with a map on the app. In those cases, Shark Matrix robot vacuums make spot cleaning much easier than Roombas do. Setting a zone for a one-time clean in the Shark app is as easy as dragging a square in the designated spot cleaning tab, compared to having to create and name an official cleaning zone in the iRobot app. Most modern Shark robot vacuums also have a physical cleaning button if you want to pick the robot up and place it in the right area — an underrated feature that modern Roombas completely skip.

On the other hand, Shark's one big blind spot — literally — is small obstacle avoidance technology. While most Roombas can steer clear of phone chargers, cords, socks, and pet waste, Shark hasn't mastered this coveted skill yet.

SEE ALSO: I've tested 20+ robot vacuums and these are the best for every budget in 2025

After testing Shark robot vacuums in my own home — as well as comparing them to robot vacs from iRobot, Roborock, Eufy, and others that I've put through the same standardized obstacle course. Based on my home testing, here are the three best Shark robot vacuums you can buy in 2025:

TL;DR: Live stream Kansas City Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles for free on TVNZ+. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Big Game is finally here, and it's going to be glorious.

The Kansas City Chiefs are on a mission to become the first team to ever win three straight. Standing in their way are the Philadelphia Eagles, fresh from smashing the Washington Commanders 55-23 to win the NFC championship. This is the second time that the Eagles have made it to this stage in three seasons, so everything is set up for something special in New Orleans.

Looking for the best way to watch Kansas City Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles for free from anywhere in the world? We have all the information you need.

When is Chiefs vs. Eagles?

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles starts at 6:30 p.m. ET on Feb. 9. This fixture takes place at the Caesars Superdome.

How to watch Chiefs vs. Eagles for free

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles is available to live stream for free on TVNZ+.

TVNZ+ is geo-restricted to New Zealand, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These helpful tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server based in New Zealand. This process bypasses geo-restrictions to unblock TVNZ+ from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the NFL by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

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

4. Visit TVNZ+

5. Live stream Kansas City Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. Sign up for these deals to access free live streams of the NFL, and it won't cost you anything in the long run. This is obviously a short-term fix, but it's possible to live stream Kansas City Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NFL?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including New Zealand

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95, saving you 49% on list price. As part of this deal, you also get three bonus months of coverage plus a whole year of unlimited data backup via the cloud and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Kansas City Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: A large bank of online courses from Harvard University are available to take for free on edX.

edX hosts a wide range of free online courses from some of the top educational institutions in the world, including Harvard University. Ever heard of it? Of course you have. And now you can become a student of this famous school without spending anything.

Harvard University offers free online courses on topics like AI, cybersecurity, game development, public speaking, and much more. We have checked out everything on offer and lined up a standout selection of online courses to get you started.

These are the best free online courses from Harvard University this month:

• American Government: Constitutional Foundations

• Ancient Masterpieces of World Literature

• Applications of TinyML

• Building Personal Resilience: Managing Anxiety and Mental Health

• Calculus Applied

• Cell Biology: Mitochondria

• Child Protection: Children's Rights in Theory and Practice

• CitiesX: The Past, Present and Future of Urban Life

• CS50's Computer Science for Business Professionals

• CS50's Computer Science for Lawyers

• CS50's Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python

• CS50's Introduction to Computer Science

• CS50's Introduction to Cybersecurity

• CS50's Introduction to Game Development

• CS50's Introduction to Programming with Python

• CS50's Introduction to Programming with R

• CS50's Introduction to Programming with Scratch

• CS50's Understanding Technology

• CS50's Web Programming with Python and JavaScript

• Data Science: Capstone

• Data Science: Inference and Modelling

• Data Science: Machine Learning

• Data Science: Probability

• Data Science: Productivity Tools

• Data Science: R Basics

• Data Science: Visualization

• Deploying TinyML

• Early Childhood Development: Global Strategies for Implementation

• Electrochemistry

• Energy and Thermodynamics

• Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies

• Exercising Leadership: Foundational Principles

• Fat Chance: Probability from the Ground Up

• Fundamentals of Neuroscience Part 1

• Fundamentals of TinyML

• High-Dimensional Data Analysis

• Human Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Cases

• Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster

• Improving Your Business Through a Culture of Health

• Introduction to Data Science with Python

• Introduction to Digital Humanities

• Introduction to Probability

• Islam Through Its Scriptures

• Justice

• Justice Today: Money, Markets, and Morals

• Leadership: Creating Public Value

• Leaders of Learning

• Machine Learning and AI with Python

• Managing Happiness

• Masterpieces of World Literature

• MLOps for Scaling TinyML

• Modern Masterpieces of World Literature

• PredictionX: Lost Without Longitude

• Principles of Biochemistry

• Pyramids of Giza: Ancient Egyptian Art and Archaeology

• Remote Work Revolution for Everyone

• Rhetoric: The Art of Persuasive Writing and Public Speaking

• Shakespeare's Life and Work

• Statistics and R

• Structure and Function of Argument: Introduction to Critical Thinking

• Super-Earths and Life

• Technology Entrepreneurship: Lab to Market

• The Architectural Imagination

• The Path to Happiness: What Chinese Philosophy Teaches us about the Good Life

• Using Python for Research

The catch with these free courses is that they don't include certificate of completiona or graded assignments and exams. But you can still enroll at any time and start learning at your own pace, so there's nothing really standing in your way.

Find the best free online courses from Harvard University with edX.

Opens in a new window Credit: Harvard University Harvard University Courses Free at edX Get Deal

SAVE $550: As of Feb. 7, the Samsung 98-inch DU9000 4K Smart TV is on sale for $1,947.99 at Amazon (regularly $2,497.99). That is $550 off a massive 4K QLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, AI-powered upscaling, and deep contrast for cinema-quality visuals.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 98-inch DU9000 TV $1,947.99 at Amazon
$2,497.99 Save $550.00 Shop Now

When size matters, this 98-inch Samsung delivers in every way without the brand tax thanks to Amazon. After a theater-style setup in your living room or the ultimate screen for gaming on a grand scale, the DU9000 Series is built to impress.

This QLED panel is backed by Samsung’s Supersize Picture Enhancer and Mega Contrast, ensuring vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent clarity. Motion Xcelerator 120Hz keeps everything smooth and fluid, making it a fantastic choice for sports, movies, and high-FPS gaming.

SEE ALSO: Beats Studio Buds+ are $50 off at Amazon — upgrade your earbuds for less

Samsung’s Tizen OS gives you built-in Alexa and access to all your favorite streaming apps, from Netflix and Disney+ to YouTube and Twitch. With three HDMI ports, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, you can easily connect your game consoles, sound systems, and streaming devices for a seamless entertainment experience.

For audio, the DU9000 features Object Tracking Sound Lite, so audio follows the action on screen. If you want even bigger sound, pair it with a Samsung Q-Series soundbar and use Q-Symphony for an immersive home theater experience.

At $550 off on Amazon, this 98-inch 4K monster is an absolute steal for anyone looking to go big without breaking the bank. Deals on supersized TVs this good do not last, so if you have the space, now is the time to upgrade.

SAVE $770: As of Feb. 7, the Samsung 55-inch S85D 4K OLED Smart TV is on sale for $927.99 at Amazon (regularly $1,697.99). That’s 45% off a premium OLED TV with Dolby Atmos, AI-powered 4K upscaling, and a silky smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung S85D 4K OLED Smart TV $927.99 at Amazon
$1,697.99 Save $770.00 Shop Now

If you have been waiting for the right time to upgrade to OLED, thanks to Amazon, this is it. The Samsung S85D delivers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and crisp contrast, making every scene more immersive.

Its NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor boosts HD content to near 4K clarity, so your favorite shows and movies will look sharper and more detailed. This TV is also built for next-level audio. With Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound Lite, the sound moves with the action, creating a cinematic experience in your living room. Add a Samsung soundbar for even richer audio.

SEE ALSO: The Anker 735 GaN charger is down to under $20 — grab it before it’s gone

Gamers will love Motion Xcelerator 120Hz, eliminating screen tearing and keeping fast-paced gameplay smooth and responsive. The low input lag and quick response time make it a great choice for competitive gaming.

Since this is a Samsung Smart TV, you get built-in Alexa and Tizen OS for easy access to Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and more. The intuitive interface makes it easy to switch between apps and control your smart home with just your voice.

At $770 off on Amazon, this deal is an easy choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home entertainment setup without overspending. OLED TV deals this good do not last long, so grab it before the price jumps back up.

SAVE $11: As of Feb. 7, the Tile Mate is on sale for $16.95 at Amazon (regularly $27.99). That’s 39% off a must-have gadget that ensures you never lose your keys, bags, or even your phone again.

Opens in a new window Credit: Tile Mate Tile Mate (2024) $16.95 at Amazon
$27.99 Save $11.04 Shop Now

If you spend more time searching for lost keys than actually using them, the Tile Mate (2024) will be your new best friend thanks to this latest Amazon deal. Attach this compact Bluetooth tracker to anything you frequently misplace (keys, backpacks, wallets) and let the free Tile app do the rest. Just tap a button in the app, and the Tile will ring loudly, making it easy to find (even if it’s buried under a couch cushion).

But the real lifesaver? If you misplace your phone, double press the Tile Mate, and your phone will ring even if it’s on silent. No more tearing apart the house in a panic.

SEE ALSO: The Anker 735 GaN charger is down to under $20 — grab it before it’s gone

If your item is gone (like left in an Uber), the Tile app shows its last known location on a map. Thanks to the Tile network, other users can help anonymously locate your lost item. Unlike Apple’s AirTag, the Tile Mate works with iPhones and Android devices, making it a versatile choice for any household.

This 2024 version also syncs with Life360, meaning you can track your family and your stuff in one app, perfect for parents who want to monitor their kids’ backpacks or luggage while traveling.

With a 350-foot Bluetooth range, water resistance (IP68-rated), and a battery that lasts up to three years, this little tracker is built to last. It even has a discreet SOS feature that can alert loved ones if you’re in an unsafe situation, a small but thoughtful addition.

If you’re tired of losing your essentials, now’s the time to grab the Tile Mate (2024) for just $16.95. At nearly 40% off on Amazon right now, it’s an affordable way to stay organized and stress-free.

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 Friday, February 7, 2025:

Across"Be quiet!"

• The answer is Shush.

Knight's weapon

• The answer is Lance.

Senior figure

• The answer is Elder.

"In any ___ ..."

• The answer is Event.

"Emilia ___" (2024 film with the most Oscar nominations)

• The answer is Perez.

DownWhat newborns do for much of the day

• The answer is Sleep.

Cut in two

• The answer is Halve.

What "U" stands for in "O/U"

• The answer is Under.

Acting class assignment

• The answer is Scene.

Standard unit of frequency

• The answer is Hertz.

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

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

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

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

SAVE $20: As of Feb. 7, the Anker 735 65W GaN charger is available at Best Buy for $19.99 (regularly $39.99). That’s 50% off for a three-port fast charger that can power your laptop, phone, and tablet all at once.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker 735 65W GaN Charger $19.99 at Best Buy
$39.99 Save $20.00 Shop Now

Tired of carrying around multiple chargers for your phone, laptop, and tablet? The Anker 735 65W GaN charger is the ultimate solution, and right now, it’s only $19.99 at Best Buy — a full $20 off its usual price. That’s a 50% discount on one of the best fast chargers out there, but this deal won’t last long.

First, let’s talk power. This little guy can fast-charge a MacBook, iPhone, and iPad simultaneously. It comes with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port, meaning you can ditch your bulky power strip and replace it with one compact charger.

SEE ALSO: Charge 6 devices at once with this Anker Prime 200W charger — now under $60

If you’re charging a single device, the Anker 735 delivers a full 65W of power — enough to fast-charge a 2020 MacBook Pro 13-inch or a Samsung Galaxy Ultra at top speed. Plug in multiple devices, and it will automatically distribute power across all three ports, simple.

What really makes this charger stand out is GaN II technology. Unlike traditional silicon-based chargers, GaN (gallium nitride) components allow for better efficiency and heat management, meaning you get more power in a much smaller package. The Anker 735 is roughly the size of an AirPods Pro case. Yet, it’s powerful enough to replace multiple chunky power bricks.

For frequent travelers, it’s a game-changer. No more stuffing multiple chargers into your bag — this one device can handle all your charging needs. It’s also foldable and compact, making it easy to toss into a backpack or carry-on.

At just $19.99 at Best Buy, this is a brilliant price for an Anker 735 GaN charger. Given that Anker is one of the most trusted brands in fast-charging tech, this is a no-brainer upgrade if you need a powerful, travel-friendly charger.

SAVE $107: As of Feb. 7, the Garmin Forerunner 955 is on sale for $392 at Amazon. That's a saving of 22% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Forerunner 955 $392.00 at Amazon
$499.99 Save $107.99 Get Deal

Garmin is one of the most recognizable names in the fitness tracker game. With watches for lifestyle, beginner athletes, serious endurance athletes, and everything in between, you can find a product for everyone. And if you're a runner, chances are you've heard of the popular Forerunner range. This range varies in price and ability, but I can't help but share the love for the Forerunner 955 and the latest deal at Amazon.

As of Feb. 7, the Garmin Forerunner 955 is reduced to $392 at Amazon. That's a saving of 22% on the list price. And for this watch, that's a great deal. This price is for the non-solar, black watch. However, there are discounts available across all variants.

SEE ALSO: The best Garmin in 2025

The 955 boasts an array of fancy tools, tracking features, and training tips. Standout features for me include training readiness, training load, HRV, and sleep monitoring, so you can schedule your training according to your recovery and body readiness. The battery life is seriously impressive, too, lasting up to 15 days in smartwatch mode and up to 42 hours in GPS mode.

The 955 also supports full GPS tracking, which makes runs, rides, and even open-water swims incredibly accurate. And for swimming, it has 5 ATM water resistance.

Unlike some of the newer models, including the Forerunner 965, you won't have an AMOLED display. However, I've found the colors are still vibrant and bright enough.

Head over to Amazon to grab this deal while it's available.

SAVE $34: As of Feb. 7, the Waterpik Cordless Advanced 2.0 is on sale for $65.88 at Amazon. That's a 34% saving on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Waterpik Waterpik Cordless Advanced 2.0 $65.88 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $34.11 Get Deal

A water flosser is a fantastic way to remove plaque and debris from hard-to-reach areas between teeth and along the gum line, so why not impress your dentist and treat yourself?

And as of Feb. 7, you can get a great deal on the Waterpik Cordless Advanced 2.0 at Amazon. Reduced by 34%, it's now $65.88. This deal is available in all colors: gray, white, blue, and black.

SEE ALSO: The best water flosser for cleaning up your oral hygiene

The handy little device is a fantastic all-rounder water flosser, featuring four tips and three settings for your personal dental needs, a rechargeable battery, and a portable design that makes it handy for travel. It's even safe to be used in the shower. Waterpik is also the first water flosser brand to earn the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance for safety and effectiveness.

This flosser works by using PrecisionPulse technology to deliver a combination of water pressure and pulsations, removing plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums. This helps reduce the risk of issues such as gingivitis, cavities, and bad breath.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so act fast to secure this low price.

SAVE $25: As of Feb. 7, this Kindle Paperwhite is on sale for $134.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 16% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite $134.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $25.00 Get Deal

Book lovers should head directly to Amazon, because the new Kindle Paperwhite is on sale for the first time this year.

As of Feb. 7, you can purchase the 16GB device for $134.99, saving you 16% on the original price. The device now comes in colors, too. For the slightly higher price of $159.99, you can upgrade your device from black to jade or raspberry.

SEE ALSO: Kindle Paperwhite vs. Signature Edition: Which is the best Amazon e-reader?

This is Amazon's fastest Kindle yet, and has a sharper contrast and 25% faster page turns. It has an ultra-thin, glare-free design to make it perfect for reading anywhere, whether you're traveling or lounging around at home.

A single USB-C charge can last up to 12 weeks, and the adjustable display lets you switch from white to amber for comfortable reading in any light. Plus, it's waterproof, so you can take it to the pool, bath, or beach without worry. Access over 15 million titles in the Kindle Store instantly, and if you subscribe to Kindle Unlimited, you can dive into an endless catalog of bestsellers and more.

This deal won't stick around for long, so head to Amazon without delay.

FREE SLURPEE: On Feb. 7, 7-Eleven is giving away a free Slurpee drink to customers. This special offer is valid for small drinks on every Friday in February. Check participating locations here.

Opens in a new window Credit: 7-Eleven 7-Eleven: Free Slurpee on Feb. 7 Learn More

We feel slightly silly.

On Jan. 31, we made a massive fuss about the fact that 7-Eleven was giving away free Slurpees for one day only. We really made some noise about this special giveaway, mainly because we thought this sort of thing was a rare chance to get something for nothing. We didn't think customers would get another opportunity like this anytime soon, but we were wrong. So very wrong.

SEE ALSO: Get a year of Peacock Premium for just $30

7-Eleven has made us look like absolute fools, but we can't be mad at them. 7-Eleven is continuing with the generosity by giving away free Slurpee drinks every Friday in February (starting on Feb. 7). Customers can pop in to get their hands on a small Slurpee at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores nationwide. Check participating locations here.

Feeling thirsty and thrifty? Grab your free Slurpee from 7-Evelen on Feb. 7.

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is reportedly developing a custom AI chatbot for use by U.S. government employees. It looks as though Elon Musk is hoping to use AI to replace the millions of workers he wants to cut.

WIRED reports that DOGE is building an generative AI chatbot for use by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), an independent government agency which manages federal buildings, IT infrastructure, and professional supplies. Called "GSAi," DOGE's custom chatbot is apparently intended to increase federal employees' productivity. Specifically, DOGE reportedly intends to use the chatbot to analyse the GSA's contracts and draft documents.

SEE ALSO: Elon Musk's DOGE takeover is reportedly being spearheaded by young college grads

In audio obtained by WIRED, GSA's Technology Transformation Services (TTS) head Thomas Shedd claimed that this AI project wasn't new, and had already been underway "before we started." A mechanical engineer who had worked at Tesla for eight years, Shedd was appointed to the GSA within days of President Donald Trump's inauguration. He quickly made clear his intent to implement artificial intelligence and automation throughout the U.S. government, including training AI to code government software for multiple different agencies.

"The thing that's different is potentially building that whole system in-house and building it very quickly," said Shedd, as reported by WIRED. "This goes back to this, 'how do we understand how the government is spending money?'"

Trump began drastic federal spending cuts upon taking office less than three weeks ago, with GSA staff reportedly expected to reduce the agency's budget by 50 percent. Cost cutting measures at the GSA will reportedly include job cuts, as well as terminating leases on all federal offices (of which there are approximately 7,500). Presumably Trump and Musk hope to eliminate enough jobs that they won't need the spaces despite the return-to-office order for federal employees.

DOGE had reportedly considered using AI tools which already exist, but decided to build GSAi after determining that current models wouldn't offer all the data it wanted. It has still found use for existing AI tools in other instances, though. Earlier this week the Washington Post reported that DOGE fed sensitive data from the U.S. Department of Education into AI software to analyse its spending.

While AI chatbots are an interesting novelty, they are frequently inaccurate and misleading, making relying upon them for important projects a dangerous proposition. Even so, Musk and Trump appear to be hoping that AI technology will offset the countless federal employees they're planning to dismiss. 

DOGE has been on a mission to drastically cut the federal workforce, presenting approximately two million employees with an apparent "buyout" offer last week. In response, many federal workers have resolved to "hold the line," refusing to resign and be replaced by Trump and Musk loyalists — if they're replaced at all.

Featured Video For You 7 ways Mark Zuckerberg changed Meta ahead of Trump’s inauguration

"Woe's Hollow" is Severance's biggest swing to date.

SEE ALSO: Every time 'Severance' hinted at that huge Helly twist

The episode swaps Lumon's offices for a snowy trip through the Dieter Eagan National Forest, reveals that Helena Eagan (Britt Lower) was posing as her Innie Helly for the last four episodes, and brutally retires Irving (John Turturro). That's already a lot, and we haven't even talked about the strange "twins" Lumon made of the Innies! (Don't think of them as clones just yet: Severance credits them as "Shadow Mark," "Shadow Helly," and so on.)

At the center of all these game-changing moments lies a disconcerting tale from Lumon founder Kier Eagan's childhood. In the story, he and his twin brother Dieter venture out into the very same woods in which the Innies find themselves. What starts as a story of close brothers ends in tragedy, complete with tree-tinged body horror and some anti-masturbation messaging thrown in for good measure. But Kier and Dieter's journey isn't just more bizarre Eagan propaganda for the Innies to swallow — it also speaks to the Innies' plights as Severed individuals.

What happens in Severance's Dieter Eagan story?

The story of Dieter and Kier is part of the Fourth Appendix to Lumon's Compliance Handbook. (Hopefully Apple releases it in full like they did with The You You Are and The Lexington Letter.) According to Mr. Milchick (Tramell Tillman), Kier dictated the Fourth Appendix in the final hours before his death, and it is "a text of such sanctity that it is forbidden upon the Severed Floor."

In the first story from the Fourth Appendix, a young Dieter persuades Kier to run away to the woods and "live as paupers." During their time in the wilderness, Dieter would often hide in the woods at night to masturbate.

SEE ALSO: 'Severance' Season 2, episode 4: What is the Glasgow Block?

One day, Kier tells Dieter they must return home and continue their work at their father's ether mill. (Child labor alert!) Dieter protests, then turns into a tree in a fairly gnarly sequence involving his eye popping out and sap pouring from the socket. Kier runs to Woe's Hollow's waterfall to drown out the sounds of Dieter's suffering. There, he meets the temper Woe (whom Irving later encounters in a dream sequence), described as "a gaunt bride, half the height of a natural woman."

Instead of allowing him a moment to grieve his brother, Woe tells Kier that "[his death] is your doing. You suffered his wantonness. Now he's no one's brother. Only chaos' whore." Comforting stuff!

Dieter Eagan's death is a parable about Lumon's views on work and sex.

Despite Mr. Milchick's claims that "every word is truth," Dieter and Kier's story is clearly a cautionary tale for the Innies about the dangers of the outside world — and a heightened parable meant to enforce Lumon's values of working diligently and serving the company.

Dieter and Kier's time in the woods highlights their different approaches to life, presenting one brother as a pinnacle of goodness, and the other as a cautionary tale. Whereas Kier wants to return to work with their father, Dieter just wants to continue shirking his family duty. Dieter is also often associated with filth. The Fourth Appendix describes him as "unwashed," criticizes his "wantonness," and labels him as a "whore." The masturbation is presented as sinful but also wasteful, with Dieter "spil[ling] his lineage upon the soil" a seeming reference to a lack of care for the Eagan family line. Apparently that and his disinclination for child labor are punishable by death by tree transformation, while Kier's need to return to work and family (which are one and the same for him) mean that he can live.

SEE ALSO: The 'Severance' cast dishes on how filming 'Woe's Hollow' was like 'doing a movie'

The masturbation passage in particular sheds light on Lumon's present-day views on sex and intimacy. The only time the Innies are permitted any kind of sex or intimacy is at the waffle party, but even that intimacy is dressed up in a Kier mask. It's sex, sure, but it's sex in service of Kier. Meanwhile, Dieter's "wanton" masturbation is sex in service of himself, which Kier and his world philosophy cannot abide by.

Now, if we're taking Kier and Dieter's story at face value, the two really are twin brothers. (In which case, I firmly believe Kier actually murdered his brother in the woods.) But what if Dieter was simply the name Kier gave a part of himself that he wanted to repress? What if Kier's journey to the woods ended with him pushing down any aspect of him that wanted freedom from work or that had any lustful thoughts? In that case, the story has an extra layer of a man battling, and ultimately winning, some kind of moral battle against his consciousness. Either way, though, the outcome of the story is the same. The virtuous Kier survives, but Dieter strays from Kier's path of goodness and "roil[s] nature's wrath," as Mr. Milchick would put it.

The relationship between Kier and Dieter speaks to the Innies' relationship with their Outies.

The story of Dieter's demise (whether he's a real twin or a symbol of Kier's repressed emotions) is a reminder to the Innies of the value of work and the perils of lust. But the twin factor of the story adds a new layer for the Innies as Severed individuals at war with their own consciousness.

The Fourth Appendix presents Kier and Dieter as two sides of the same coin. Both are Eagans working for their father, and they're so close that they're bosom friends. Yet they differ in terms of key values. Similarly, the Innies and their Outies are also two sides of the same coin. They're so close they share a body, but their personalities vary wildly. The inclusion of their shadow selves also serves as a visual representation of their twinship with their Outies.

With this in mind, the story seems to ask the Innies, "Which Eagan brother do you want to be?" Will they choose the diligent worker or the lustful pauper wannabe? Remember, the guy who chose the latter turned into a tree, so choose very carefully!

The parable puts Kier and Dieter — two halves of the same whole — in competition with each other, a move that may speak to conflict between the Innies and Outies down the line. It also highlights that one half of a pair could be struck down at any time for acting against Kier, a threat that becomes all too real after Irving's retirement and the reveal that the Glasgow Block has kept Helly R. locked away while Helena is on the Severed Floor.

Dieter Eagan's story has extra meaning for Helena.

For Mark (Adam Scott), Irving, and Dylan (Zach Cherry), their time in Woe's Hollow is the first time they've heard about Dieter Eagan even existing. But for Helena, who's grown up with Eagan propaganda, this story must have been with her for her whole life.

Like Kier in the story, Helena is expected to uphold the Eagan way. (Kier forbid her father call her a "fetid moppet" again!) Acting as Helly R., though, Helena has the opportunity to show disdain to the story, a moment that has to be freeing given Lumon's rigidity, and one that also feels like it skews far more towards Dieter Eagan's life philosophy than Kier's.

Another moment that feels like Dieter? Helena having sex with Mark in Woe's Hollow. Yes, maintaining Mark's trust and affection is all for Lumon, but Helena is specifically seeking out pleasure for herself — including the self-satisfaction that she's one-upped her own Innie when it comes to intimacy with Mark. She's embracing her inner Dieter, a comparison that Severance emphasizes by intercutting the sex scene with Irving's dream of Woe.

Like Dieter, Helena is punished for her actions in Woe's Hollow when Irving realizes she's not Helly at all. He brings her to the waterfall — the very same place where Kier drowned out the sounds of Dieter's pain — and attempts to kill her, bringing Helly back. It's a full circle moment for another Eagan who strayed from Kier's path. Thankfully, there was less tree sap and eye loss this time around.

Severance Season 2 is now streaming on Apple TV+, with a new episode every Friday.

Featured Video For You Severance Season 1 recap: Everything you need to know in 60 seconds

Severance's "Woe's Hollow" is nothing short of a showstopper — and not just because of its massive plot twist.

SEE ALSO: Every time 'Severance' hinted at that huge Helly twist

The fourth episode of Season 2 sees Innies Mark (Adam Scott), Helly (Britt Lower), Irving (John Turturro), and Dylan (Zach Cherry) return to the outside world for a Lumon-supervised field trip known as an Outdoor Retreat Team Building Occurrence, or ORTBO. Dressed in matching fur coats, the Innies hike through the snowy woods of Dieter Eagan National Forest, which is a far cry from the sterile labyrinth of Lumon's Severed Floor.

While every Innie actor has shot scenes as their Outie in the world beyond Lumon, filming "Woe's Hollow" was like nothing else on Severance.

"[The shoot] was over five weeks," Turturro told Mashable in a video call alongside Lower and Cherry. "It was something like doing a movie, like doing an independent film."

SEE ALSO: 'Severance' Season 2, episode 4: What is the Glasgow Block?

The new location for "Woe's Hollow" added new challenges for the Severence crew. "Just to get up [the mountain] took us a long time," Turturro said. "At night, when we came down in these little tractors, you're on the side of the road, and it's foggy and there's snow, you're thinking, 'we could go right off the side of that cliff over there!'"

"We had to work much more quickly," Lower said. "They would do our hair and makeup in the morning, and then we wouldn't have any touchups throughout the day because there wasn't time. Typically you have the hair and makeup team traveling, but we had to be really fleet-footed on the mountain, and we were racing against the sun setting."

"We won the race!" Cherry added. "We beat the sun every day."

With the snowy location came new outfits for the Innies, who we usually only see in office wear. "I really enjoyed not having to wear pantyhose and heels for the first time," Lower said.

Instead, costume designer Sarah Edwards dressed the Innies in long fur coats with matching hats, along with mountaineering boots and crampons to help with the extended hiking sequences.

"Those coats, they weighed around 30 pounds," Turturro said. "It was great, but it was really heavy. You were just soaked."

But there were some upsides to the constant hiking in heavy clothing. "By the end of the shoot, I'd put on quite a bit of calf muscle," Cherry said.

Severance Season 2 is now streaming on Apple TV+, with a new episode every Friday.

Severance pulled off one of its biggest plot twists yet in "Woe's Hollow," the fourth episode of Season 2.

SEE ALSO: 'Severance's Dieter Eagan story is more important than you think

The episode brings Lumon's Innies back to the outside world for an Outdoor Retreat Team Building Occurrence, or ORTBO. It's basically a camping trip, with a healthy dose of Kier Eagan propaganda — and marshmallows! — thrown in for good measure. But the ORTBO ends in chaos when Irving (John Turturro) figures out that Helly (Britt Lower) is actually her Outie Helena, who has been posing as Helly since the start of Season 2.

Severance has been steadily building to this reveal since the first episode of Season 2, dropping hints (some subtle, some glaring) that something isn't right with Helly. So whether you called the Helena twist from episode 1 and want to revisit your detective work, or you were totally surprised and want to catch the clues you may have missed, we've got you covered. Here are the 10 biggest clues from Severance Season 2 that prove Helena was pretending to be Helly all along.

Helly's return to the Severed Floor was immediately suspicious. Adam Scott and Britt Lower in "Severance." Credit: Apple TV+

Right from the moment Helly reappears in Severance's Season 2 premiere, it's clear something is off. Innies like Irving and Mark (Adam Scott) return to the Severed Floor in the same state they were in when the Overtime Contingency ended: Mark is terrified and breathing hard following his revelation that Gemma (Dichen Lachman) is still alive, while Irving is banging on the elevator doors just as he was banging on Burt's (Christopher Walken) front door.

Helly, on the other hand, comes in running and out of breath, as if she'd been on the run for a long time. But she certainly wasn't running at the end of Season 1 — she'd been tackled to the ground. Between that discrepancy and her faked labored breathing, everything about her entrance feels performative.

SEE ALSO: 'Severance' Season 2, episode 4: What is the Glasgow Block?

Helly's reaction to Mark's hug is also uncharacteristic of her. She seems more confused about seeing him than anything else. Of course, that could be read as Helly's discombobulation after a sudden return to the Severed Floor, but in hindsight, it's clear this is Helena trying to adjust to her new role as her Innie.

Helly was awfully focused on Lumon's lack of security cameras.

Every time the MDR Innies hesitate to tell each other what happened to them in the outside world, Helly brings up Lumon's seemingly relaxed surveillance tactics. One of her first lines back in the MDR office is "Where are the security cameras?" — a pointed attempt to prove the Innies aren't being surveilled.

SEE ALSO: The 15 most WTF moments from 'Severance' Season 2, episode 1

Later, in the new and improved break room, she reminds her co-workers that Lumon vowed that there would be no more cameras or microphones listening in on their conversations. But since when has Helly R. been one to trust Lumon propaganda at face value? No, these moments are actually all ploys from Helena to get the Innies talking. Lumon has been listening after all! Just not in the way it claimed.

Helly's lie about the Overtime Contingency was the clearest proof that she's Helena Eagan. Britt Lower and John Turturro in "Severance." Credit: Apple TV+

The alarm bells about Helly really begin when she lies to Mark, Irving, and Dylan about what she saw in the outside world. Sure, she could have been so ashamed about being an Eagan that she decided to keep it from the group, but that doesn't seem like something Helly would do. Remember, this is the woman who almost chopped off her own fingers and hanged herself to prove something to her Outie! She knows they're not the same, and it's more likely that she'd relish working with the rest of MDR to stick it to her Eagan Outie than cover it up.

SEE ALSO: 'Severance' Season 2, episode 1: Why does Helly lie about what she saw?

Helena's lie is also so blatant that Irving knows immediately that something is up. That raises the question: Helena had days to think of this lie, and the best she could think of was a night gardener? Surely Lumon has some copywriters who could have conjured up something better for her.

Helly wanted the group to stay together, no matter what.

The only way Helena can glean information from the other Innies is if they remain with each other at all times. That explains her panicked insistence that "we should all go" when Dylan volunteers to talk to an upset Irving. She doesn't want to support Irving, she just wants to eavesdrop on him! Wouldn't want to miss a thing happening on the Severed Floor — her father could call her a "fetid moppet" again.

Helly's reaction to Mark's search for Gemma was off-putting from the jump. Adam Scott and Britt Lower in "Severance." Credit: Apple TV+

Another Helly/Helena clue in the first episode is her subdued reaction to the reveal that Gemma is alive at Lumon — and that Mark wants to get her out. Instead of jumping at the chance to free someone else from Lumon's clutches, Helena-as-Helly prods Mark about why he owes Gemma anything. You could chalk this hesitance up to romantic complications between Helly, Innie Mark, Outie Mark, and Gemma, but again, do we really think Helly would miss out on an opportunity to stick it to Lumon? Of course not! Helena is just trying to dissuade Mark from acting on the information he learned during the Overtime Contingency, hoping she can get him back on track to finish Cold Harbor.

SEE ALSO: 'Severance' Season 2: What is Cold Harbor?

Helena's true feelings about the Innie-Outie divide come to the fore in their conversation about Gemma, when she tells Mark, "We're not the same [as our Outies], actually." The intensity calls to mind Helena's video message to Helly in Season 1, when she tells her, "I am a person. You are not."

Helena does try to backtrack, saying, "I don't think we owe [the Outies] shit." But it's too late! The cracks in her Helly facade are showing, and Helena Eagan is coming through.

An Invasion of the Body Snatchers reference hinted at Helena replacing Helly.

Eagle-eyed viewers spotted that the name of the file Helly is working on at the end of Severance's Season 2 premiere is Santa Mira, which is the fictional town where Invasion of the Body Snatchers takes place. Like the aliens in the film, Helena has replaced Helly, making the Santa Mira reference a fun, telling hint for movie lovers.

SEE ALSO: 'Severance's 'The You You Are' is now a real book. Here are 4 things we learned from it. Helena's body language was all off as Helly. Britt Lower and Adam Scott in "Severance." Credit: Apple TV+

Helena's first run out of the elevator and awkward hug of Mark aren't the only physical clues that she's posing as Helly. Elements like her walk, her hand placement, and more are evocative of the proper rigidity Helena exhibits. But the biggest body language discrepancy is how Helena fumbles with the switch to turn on her computer at the end of episode 1. All the other Innies are able to get it without looking, since this is a force of habit for them, so this small misstep is actually a pretty big red flag for Helena Eagan. I guess she should have studied her Innie better. Speaking of...

Helena watching Lumon's security footage was a dead giveaway that she would be taking Helly's place. Britt Lower in "Severance." Credit: Apple TV+

In Severance Season 2, episode 2, we don't see any of Helena-as-Helly. However, we get a sequence of Helena preparing to play her own Innie: the scene in which she watches and rewatches security footage of Helly's kiss with Mark from Season 1. It's like we're watching an actor preparing to go method for a biopic, but instead of an actor playing a famed musician or political figure, it's Helena Eagan preparing to play a version of herself she's subjected to endless torture. Oscar incoming!

Knowing that Helena is planning on impersonating Helly adds an extra layer to the sinister assertion from Lumon enforcer Mr. Drummond (Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, Somebody Somewhere) that "the board's going to give [Mark] what he wants. Including Helly R."

With that, Helena knows she's being expected to play up the intimacy between herself (as Helly) and Mark. It's another way of giving up her body to serve Lumon (although of course, that's what Lumon is doing to Innies in the first place).

The elevator doesn't ding when Helena heads to the Severed Floor. Britt Lower in "Severance." Credit: Apple TV+

When Helena takes the elevator down to the Severed Floor in Season 2, episode 2, we don't hear the trademark "ding" sound that's associated with the transition from Outie to Innie. That's fairly damning evidence on its own, but it's extra damning because Helena's entrance comes after Dylan and Irving's. You know what we hear when they take the elevator? The ding! The omission of a Helly ding right after these was a purposeful nod to Helena taking the reins on the Severed Floor — and it's proof that no detail on Severance is too small to be a coincidence.

SEE ALSO: The 14 most WTF moments from 'Severance' Season 2, episode 2 Helly's behavior on the entire "Woe's Hollow" field trip was a nail in the coffin for undercover Helena. Britt Lower, Adam Scott, John Turturro, and Zach Cherry in "Severance." Credit: Apple TV+

Helena's time on the Severed Floor already had its suspicious moments, but her behavior on the ORTBO is what truly blows her cover. Her cruelty to Irving about him losing Burt is what truly convinces Irving, but there are other moments that signal that Helly is really Helena as well.

For starters, she immediately understands that the story about Kier Eagan's twin brother Dieter in the Fourth Appendix is an anti-masturbation tale, suggesting this is a text she's familiar with, as an Eagan would be. Her derision about the story at the campfire could be an overly performative attempt to capture Helly's anti-Eagan sentiment — or it could also be a freeing moment for Helena to push back against her family's teachings, some of which she may view as outdated.

Later, in one of the only instances when Helena-as-Helly truly gets some time alone, she wanders over to the Woe's Hollow waterfall and stares at it with a mix of pride and affection. Since Woe's Hollow is such an important place in Kier's life, Helena's gazing at the waterfall feels like a moment of acknowledging her family and her place in it, including everything she's done this season in order to continue serving Kier. Coming the morning after she has sex with Mark — both the ultimate way to get revenge against Helly, and concrete proof that she's fully earned Mark's trust — Helena's stop by the waterfall feels like a mini victory lap. At least, until Irving calls her out.

The official reveal that Helena was Helly all along raises Severance Season 2's rewatch factor to new heights, with every one of Lower's performance choices gaining new depth and context. What other clues did you pick out?

Severance Season 2 is now streaming on Apple TV+, with a new episode every Friday.

"Woe's Hollow," the fourth episode of Severance Season 2, is one of the show's most jam-packed entries yet. Over the course of an hour, Severance revealed that Helena Eagan (Britt Lower) had been posing as her Innie for the whole season. It also retired Irving's (John Turturro) Innie and introduced some bizarre new Kier Eagan lore. And that's only scratching the surface!

SEE ALSO: 'Severance's Dieter Eagan story is more important than you think

But in the middle of these major plot points, Severance slyly answered one of our biggest questions from all the way back in Season 1 — and it all starts with Mr. Milchick's (Tramell Tillman) mention of something known as "the Glasgow Block."

What is the Glasgow Block in Severance? What could all these functions do? Credit: Screenshot: AppleTV+

When Irving figures out that Helly is really her Outie posing as an Innie, he attempts to drown her in order to get Helly back. His plan works. Mr. Milchick calls someone back at Lumon and demands that they "remove the Glasgow Block."

Eagle-eyed viewers may remember that this isn't the first time the word "Glasgow" has come up in Severance. In Season 1, episode 8, when Dylan (Zach Cherry) prepared to launch the Overtime Contingency, he also saw a list of several other functions the severed chips can perform. Among them are Beehive, Elephant, Freeze Frame, and Glasgow.

SEE ALSO: Every time 'Severance' hinted at that huge Helly twist

Fans were quick to theorize about what each severed function could be. For Glasgow, they turned to the Glasgow Coma Scale, which measures levels of consciousness after brain trauma. Given that Severance is a show all about consciousness, the connection seemed like a perfect fit. Could Lumon use the Glasgow function to send its severed employees into a coma at a moment's notice?

After "Woe's Hollow," that theory doesn't sound too far off. It seems like the Glasgow function blocks an Innie persona from waking up entirely, allowing their Outie to be in control at all times, even on the Severed Floor.

What could the Glasgow Block mean for the rest of Severance Season 2?

The Glasgow Block's existence spells extra danger for the Innies. It's yet another way Lumon could snuff out their lives without warning, emphasizing once again how little autonomy they have and how little Lumon values them as actual people.

But could there be a flip side to the Innies learning about the Glasgow Block? If they rebel against Lumon again, could there be a way to reverse the block and make it so the Innies are the only active consciousness? That might be too similar to the Innies' triggering the Overtime Contingency in Season 1, but as tensions between the Innies and Outies escalate, anything could be possible.

Another reason the Glasgow Block's appearance here is so important is that it's proof that Severance is paying attention to the little bread crumbs it's dropped throughout its run, like the function menu in Season 1. Those functions weren't just random names — they had intention behind them, and at least one ended up being paid off in an immensely satisfying way. Who knows, maybe down the line we'll see the Beehive or Elephant function in action.

Severance Season 2 is now streaming on Apple TV+, with a new episode every Friday.

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