IT General

There are two kinds of people when it comes to tiny PCs—those looking for the absolute best hardware, or something that just gets the job done. If you're in the latter camp, a lot of people tend to go for Chromebooks on the laptop side, and these Chromeboxes are perfect for doing the same thing on the tiny PC side.

Are you thinking about learning to code? Are you unsure if it's worth it in the age of AI? Writing software isn't just about code itself—it's more than that, and there are several key benefits that keep me coding. Here are three great reasons why you should start.

With more than 1.6 billion global visits across its 80 domain names over the last year, Streameast was easily the world's most popular illegal sports streaming platform.

On Wednesday, however — just in time for the NFL season — Streameast suddenly shut down, just as the anti-piracy group Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE) announced that Streameast was no more.

“Today, ACE scored a resounding victory in its fight to detect, deter, and dismantle criminal perpetrators of digital piracy: by taking down the largest illegal live sports platform anywhere,” ACE Chairman Charles Rivki said in a statement. “With this landmark action, we have put more points on the board for sports leagues, entertainment companies, and fans worldwide—and our global alliance will stay on the field as long as it takes to identify and target the biggest piracy rings across the globe.”

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According to ACE, the group worked in tandem with Egyptian authorities to take down the piracy network. Two men were linked to more than $6 million in illicit revenue from the illegal pirating and were arrested on related copyright infringement charges.

Streameast was a popular sports streaming network of sites that provided visitors with free streaming access to live games, which are often paywalled behind a legal subscription service. The piracy network was an especially popular destination for professional soccer matches around the world, ranging from Europe’s biggest leagues, like England’s Premier League and Spain’s La Liga, to FIFA World Cup qualifiers and UEFA club competitions.

Streameast also provided streams to popular U.S. sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, and more. Pay-per-views events like boxing and MMA events were also streamed on the platform.

While Streameast is no longer running on its main domain names, mirror websites and copycats were quickly deployed, and the sports piracy network appears to be running on alternative domains for the time being.

However, Mashable readers can find out how to watch sports online (including college football and out-of-market NFL games) on legal services like ESPN and Fox One.

Meanwhile, sports fans who were counting on Streameast to stream their favorite teams' games this fall are in mourning.

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When was the last time you binge-watched a TV show or movie series? For me, I recently watched How To Train Your Dragon (all three animated movies) over the course of three days. While I loved the series, I feel that I didn’t get the full experience from binge-watching them.

Apple fans only have a few more days to wait for the Apple Event 2025, aka the official launch of the iPhone 17, which is slated for Sept. 9. Typically, Apple also uses this event to launch other products as well. For instance, last year’s event featured the iPhone 16, the Apple Watch Series 10, AirPods 4, and more. That will likely remain true this year as well, but not everything in Apple’s rumored pipeline is set to make its debut next week. 

Before we get started, let’s recap the stuff we expect to see at Apple’s release event this year. That includes the iPhone 17, the Apple Watch Series 11, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, and likely the AirPods Pro 3. For these Apple September launch events, the company typically sticks to the iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch, but there are a few other products expected in 2025 that could sneak their way into the event. 

However, there are even more new Apple products we’re not expecting to see at the event, either because Apple will have a separate event for them later in 2025 or because they won’t be available until 2026.

The next iPhone ‘e’ model

Apple replaced the iPhone SE with the iPhone ‘e’ model phones starting with the iPhone 16e. While it is nice to see Apple treating its affordable iPhone with the same deference as the main models, we don't think Apple will launch the next ‘e’ iPhone alongside the iPhone 17. There are several reasons for this, but in short, the next affordable iPhone will almost certainly be in absentia come Sept. 9. 

The main reason for this is that Apple typically saves those releases for spring, and this dates back to the iPhone SE models. Apple’s first SE model was launched in March 2016, and the second and third generations were launched in April 2020 and March 2022, respectively. Apple continued this trend with the iPhone 16e, which was launched in February 2025. It seems likely that an iPhone 17e is coming next year, per Mark Gurman of Bloomberg. 

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

Apple is reportedly working on several new Mac products, including an M4 Mac Pro and, of course, Mac computers with the upcoming M5 chip that Apple is no doubt working on. Generally speaking, Apple saves its Mac announcements for a separate event that usually takes place in either October or May, depending on the product and the launch. So, if you need a new MacBook laptop, you still have some time to wait. 

Those announcements may even have to wait until 2026. The upcoming MacBook Pro with an M5 chip is rumored to be delayed until 2026, along with several other products. Thus, in short, we won’t see any new Mac products at the iPhone launch next week, and we may not see some of them until 2026 at all. The M4 Mac Pro might still come out before the end of 2026, though. 

New iPads

Much like the Mac products, Apple generally saves new iPad announcements for other events, usually alongside the Mac products. In the recent past, Apple has saved iPad announcements for springtime, and we have no reason to believe Apple will stray from tradition and announce any early with the iPhone 17. 

Per Gurman, Apple is definitely saving its iPad announcements for early 2026. The products may include a new low-end iPad, new iPads with M4 chips, and the aforementioned iPhone 17e as part of a “flurry of new products” landing in the first half of next year. In any case, don’t expect any iPads at the September Apple Event 2025.

New AirPods Max

The AirPods Pro 3 are on the docket for an announcement (we think), but the AirPods Max aren’t. The first generation is already pretty old, at around five years, and it seems the next generation of the AirPods Max is still pretty far out. Apple is keeping the next generation under wraps until 2027, per MacRumors, which is very, very far away from next week. 

The update will be a welcome one. Rumor suggests that the next generation will be lighter, introduce new technology like heart rate monitoring, and updated internals. Apple did refresh the AirPods Max last year, but the refresh only added new color options and a USB-C port, so they’re still widely considered a first-generation product. 

Any HomePod products

Apple has a couple of these in the works, including a HomePad smart home hub and the HomePod mini 2. It’s improbable that we’ll see either at the September Apple event, although not impossible. Apple is expected to release the HomePod mini and a new Apple TV 4K device by the end of 2025, and they’re small enough products that they may sneak into the iPhone event. However, it’s more likely that Apple will announce these at a separate event along with the new Macs. 

The HomePod smart home hub may have to wait even longer for a launch date. Reports claim that Apple has delayed its Google Nest Hub competitor until 2026. Initially, the launch was pushed back to the end of 2025, but more recent reports indicate that Apple wants to wait until 2026 to better prepare Apple Intelligence. So, it’s unlikely that we’ll see any HomePod products on September 9.

The next Apple Vision Pro

Rumors about the Apple Vision Pro have been ramping up in recent months as Apple aims to release a refreshed model of the Vision Pro before the end of 2025. This refresh will include the M5 chip and improved comfort. That coincides with the upcoming VisionOS 26 update, which should be released in autumn 2025. Apple is reportedly also working on the Vision Air, but we don't think that's coming until 2027 at the earliest. 

It is highly unlikely that this piece of tech will launch with the iPhone lineup. Since the refresh is coming with an M5 chip, it’s much more likely that it’ll launch with the rest of the M5 products that Apple has coming down the pipeline. Since those aren’t launching with the iPhone, we’ll likely see the refreshed Vision Pro later in 2025. 

Still, if we're lucky, Apple may tease some of these products next week.

The launch event is mostly about the mobile stuff

Apple usually keeps its products grouped up, and as we said earlier, the iPhone event usually only includes the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods products (and this year, probably the AirTag 2). So, if it’s not in the mobile product category, chances are that you won’t see it launch next week.

Frankly, the Nintendo 64's Goldeneye: 007 has spent the last three decades running cover for a long line of middling-to-bad James Bond video games.

Whether in mediocre pseudo-sequels that bore the Goldeneye name or other half-hearted offshoots, the world's favorite British special operative has starred in far more bad video games than good ones. Everything or Nothing from 2004 gets a pass because it's a pretty fun third-person action game where Willem Dafoe plays the bad guy, but that's the only exception to the rule.

Anyway, I say all of that because 007: First Light from IO Interactive (makers of Hitman) looks like the most compelling virtual vision of the famed MI6 agent since Goldeneye. I got to see about half an hour's worth of hands-off demo footage last week and came away a lot more excited about the game than I was after the initial trailer, which didn't feature nearly enough espionage for my taste.

007: First Light looks like Hitman but with sweet car chases

When IO announced it was making a Bond game a few years ago, the consensus reaction from basically everyone I associate with was, "Oh, hell yeah, that's perfect." That's because the Hitman series plays to Bond's strengths better than almost any other, giving players a huge amount of freedom to sneak around big, detailed levels full of NPCs whose AI you can manipulate in fun ways.

The only difference (and it's a big one) is that Hitman is about stone-cold slapstick murder, while Bond kills dudes in far more pragmatic and less Bugs Bunny-esque ways. That's why the first gameplay trailer didn't quite land with me; it just kinda looked like British Uncharted, with lots of setpieces and third-person shooting.

I'm pleased to say that the extended demo I saw (but sadly didn't play) made it clear that this is definitely a game by the people who made Hitman. The demo featured Bond sneaking into a high-class fancy-guys-in-suits party at some scenic villa (a likely place for Bond to be) using a variety of creative methods to get past guards. Bond can't don disguises with the same level of freedom as Agent 47, so instead, distraction appears to be key to success. At one point, Bond turned on a garden hose so a guard would leave his post to turn it off, picked up a lighter, and lit some hay on fire so another guard nearby would leave his post, all so Bond could climb into a window.

IO is promising a good mix of these kinds of sprawling, open-ended Hitman-esque levels interspersed with exciting Bond action stuff, which made up the other chunk of the demo. Car chases and cover-based third-person shooting seem like pretty standard fare here (though it looked like a lot of fun), but there was also a part where Bond used his fancy gadget watch to hack into a cargo plane he infiltrated mid-takeoff. At that point, Bond could actually steer the plane left or right while engaging in a shootout in the cargo hold, sending crates and enemy combatants careening around the place in a really goofy manner.

If 007: First Light actually manages to combine that Hitman freeform stealth goodness with awesome setpiece moments without either side of the game getting old, it could very well be the best Bond game in decades. The competition isn't stiff, of course, but you can only play the opponent in front of you, as they say in sports. There are other elements of the game I'm not sure about, such as the James Bond origin story premise featuring an original, younger version of the agent. It also remains to be seen if the actual driving and shooting mechanics are any good, as engaging in gunfights in Hitman was never especially fun.

But, if we have to live in a world where Amazon owns James Bond, a world that will probably include a lot of mediocre Bond movies full of ads for Prime Air, I'll take what I can get.

This was another busy week for Windows 11 development, with Microsoft rolling out the 25H2 update to the Release Preview Channel, and testing a few more improvements in the other Insider channels. Here’s everything Microsoft rolled out in Windows this past week.

It's a tricky business when it comes to the modernization of a car brand. It's a gamble second to none, and Corvette is playing high stakes at present with its all-electric CX and Hybrid CXR Gran Turismo concepts. Jaguar, with its recent brand revamping, and that rather interesting marketing campaign, is the prime example, just to see just how sketchy it can get, especially when modernization means that you're tugging on the heartstrings of your loyal following and possibly pulling the rug completely from their feet, ditching ICE engines. So be warned: any brand considering pursuing the same approach, especially when it comes to the beloved ethos of Corvette, should think twice about going full EV.

At the time of writing, Apple’s big iPhone event is just around the corner — a week away, give or take, depending on when you’re reading this. And while most of the hype is centered on the iPhone 17 and the new Liquid Glass UI coming with iOS 26, the Apple Watch will also be a supporting player during the big show.

In fact, we're expecting to see three new smartwatches make their debut at the Apple event on Sept. 9 — the Apple Watch Series 11, the Apple Watch SE, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3.

Not to sound like a broken record, but as with the iPhone 17 (and the Series 11), we're expecting incremental upgrades, not a drastic redesign. That’s not to say we won't see anything new, but temper your expectations for the $800 smartwatch. Here’s everything we know so far, and everything we think we know.

SEE ALSO: 3 features we hope Apple brings to the iPhone 17 Apple Watch Ultra 3: Price

Let's start with the good news: As hinted above, the Ultra 3 is expected to stick to last year’s $799 starting price. That's still a steep buy-in, even for Apple’s top-tier wearable, but in the tariffs era, a lot of products are getting more expensive.

Like the Series 11 and iPhone 17, we think the Ultra 3 will be announced on Sept. 9, with preorders likely kicking off around Sept. 12. Early adopters can have it on their wrists as early as Sept. 19.

Apple Watch Ultra 3: Design and Display

According to MacRumors, the Ultra 3 is expected to sport a larger display — roughly 10 percent bigger than the Ultra 2. Measuring in at 2.12 inches, the new screen may also mark a shift away from OLED, with Apple reportedly testing more energy-efficient options like microLED or wide-angle LTPO panels.

There are also rumblings of an onboard camera, a feature that popped up in our Series 11 rumor roundup as well. If it makes the cut this year, the camera would sit on the side of the case near the digital crown. Don’t expect it to replace your iPhone, though. As Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman notes, the feature would likely serve more for AI-driven visual analysis than snapping Instagram-ready photos.

Apple Watch Ultra 3: Hardware

A new Ultra also means a new chip. After two years, the Ultra 3 will finally get an upgrade with Apple’s latest S11 processor. The Ultra 2 ran on the S9, while the Series 10 jumped to an S10, but this year Apple is aligning the lineup — the Series 11, Ultra 3, and the rumored SE 3 are all rumored to ship with the updated S11.

That said, don’t get your hopes up too high. While it’s technically a new processor, MacRumors reports that leaks suggest the S11 shares much of the same internal architecture as the S9 and S10. It’s still a solid chip for a smartwatch, but in terms of real-world performance, the gains are expected to be modest at best.

The Ultra 3 is also expected to feature a larger charging coil, which should help extend battery life. Combined with the new energy-efficient display, CNET reports that the watch could last up to 72 hours in low power mode — a major boost for adventurers and endurance users.

Apple Watch Ultra 3: New watchOS 26 features

One of the standout upgrades, according to Mark Gurman, will be satellite messaging. The Ultra 3 is tipped to be the first Apple wearable capable of dispatching emergency texts via the Globalstar satellite network. That means even if you’re completely off the grid without cell service, you could still get a lifeline out. (Garmin recently announced its own flagship smartwatch with satellite connectivity, set to be released Sept. 8, the day before the Apple event.)

There are also rumors of built-in blood pressure monitoring, a feature that could provide early warnings for users at risk of hypertension. Beyond that, expect the Ultra 3 to carry over much of what the Ultra 2 already offered — with the notable addition of 5G connectivity baked directly into the watch.

Google is sharing a bunch of new stuff today, but it’s not all reserved for Pixel users. The Gboard app is getting some new writing tools and easier access to Emoji Kitchen stickers, nifty audio sharing features are rolling out, and the Quick Share menu gets redesigned yet again.

It’s been a few months since the last Pixel Drop, but this September brings some goodies to make your Pixel phone feel more personal and premium. Android’s biggest redesign in years is finally rolling out to more people, plus there are new updates for the Pixel Watch and Pixel Buds Pro 2.

As many people know, screen time can happen in the unlikeliest of places — including the bathroom. But a new study suggests there's more risk involved in scrolling there than just a filthier phone.

The research, published Wednesday in PLOS One, found an association between smartphone use on the toilet and a higher risk of hemorrhoids. (If you're currently reading this while relieving yourself, we won't be offended if you set your device aside until you're done.)

Prior to conducting the study, the researchers had anecdotal observations that toilet scrolling might contribute to hemorrhoids but no evidence linking the two.

SEE ALSO: Stop scrolling so much. Try these rituals instead.

To address the question, the researchers designed a cross-sectional survey of 125 adult colonoscopy patients ages 45 and older. More than 40 percent of those patients had hemorrhoids, according to imaging reviewed as part of their colonoscopy results. Among all the respondents, more than two-thirds used a smartphone while on the toilet.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the people who scrolled in the bathroom reported spending significantly more time there than those who didn't — more than five minutes per visit.

When the researchers controlled for different factors that could affect the development of hemorrhoids, like age, sex, exercise, fiber intake, and straining, they found that smartphone use on the toilet was associated with a 46 percent increased risk of experiencing the painful condition.

While the study didn't establish a direct cause and effect between toilet scrolling and hemorrhoids, co-author Dr. Trisha Pasricha told Mashable that it should draw more attention to an understudied possibility. According to Pasricha, who is a physician and director of the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Institute for Gut-Brain Research, this study is the first to examine the question.

Pasricha noted that just as experts increasingly tell people not to bring their smartphone to their bedside when they're trying to sleep because it can interfere with their well-being, the same could be done for toilet scrolling.

"I think we should start pushing more strongly to say, 'Leave your smartphone outside the bathroom.'"

Why people scroll on the toilet — and how to stop

More than half of study participants said their most common scrolling activity was reading the news. Forty-four percent said they were viewing social media.

Pasricha, who treats patients with hemorrhoids, said she understands why people pick up their phones on the toilet. The habit can relax some individuals, which helps them have a bowel movement.

Reading analog texts like newspapers and books has long been a bathroom pastime, for example. But Pasricha said smartphones facilitate endless scrolling, which can lead to trouble.

"The smartphone is not the answer, because that's kind of designed to make you lose all track of time and lose focus," Pasricha said.

She added that when the body's pelvic floor is sitting over a bowl, without support for an extended period of time, it could potentially accelerate weakening of the connective tissue around the veins in the rectum. When those veins bulge, they can subsequently become hemorrhoids.

If reading in the bathroom relaxes you enough to have a bowel movement, Pasricha recommends going "old school" with paper-based reading materials, like a newspaper, magazine, or comic book.

She also urges people who think they have hemorrhoids to see a medical professional sooner than later. The condition needs to be evaluated by a physician to ensure that it's indeed a hemorrhoid, and not a skin tag or cancerous growth.

"People do suffer in silence, because it's embarrassing, there's some stigma to it," Pasricha said. "I think it's often a big shame when it's something we can treat so easily."

With macOS 26 Tahoe on the horizon, many Mac users are looking forward to Apple’s annual free software update. While you wait, why not check out some premium apps that more than justify their price tags?

Walmart is celebrating the fifth anniversary of its Walmart+ membership program with a new perk for subscribers called "Video Streaming Choice." Starting Sept. 15, Walmart+ members will get nonconcurrent access to ad-supported Paramount+ and Peacock plans for free.

The new benefit positions Walmart+ as a stronger alternative to Amazon Prime, which includes access to the retail giant's Prime Video streaming platform on top of free delivery. (A Walmart+ membership costs $98 per year after its free 30-day trial, while Prime is $139 per year after a monthlong trial.) Amazon also offers add-on subscriptions to services like Apple TV+, HBO Max, Paramount+, and, most recently, Peacock Premium Plus via Prime Video.

Walmart's announcement comes as Amazon moves to restrict Prime's free two-day shipping perk.

Opens in a new window Credit: Walmart Walmart+ $98/year Learn More

The big-box store originally introduced complimentary Paramount+ Essential plans (normally $59.99 per year) as a member benefit around its two-year anniversary in September 2022. With annual Peacock Premium subscriptions valued at $109.99 per year, its annual membership fee can now pay for itself and then some.

“The additional option of Peacock Premium adds even more value and more choice to our membership, without raising the price,” said Deepak Maini, senior vice president of Walmart+, in a press release.

Walmart+ members are only allowed to use one of the two streaming services at any given time, but can switch every 90 days if they tire of one library's offerings.

In addition to those free streaming offerings, a Walmart+ membership unlocks additional benefits like free shipping (with no order minimums), fuel discounts, a Scan & Go checkout tool, and early access to deals during Walmart's Black Friday sale, among other major savings events throughout the year. If you can wait a couple of weeks, Walmart+ memberships are usually 50% off during the holidays.

Samsung just released its new Sound Tower models, the ST50F and ST40F. These new models, which were unveiled at IFA 2025, are the latest in its line of portable audio devices for parties and large gatherings. However, these models have a lot more features than you'd expect at first glance.

SAVE 30%: As of Sept. 3, you can get the Hisense 55-inch Class QLED 4K CanvasTV Series TV for just $697.99, down from $999.99 at Amazon. That's a 30% discount and over $300 off.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 55-inch Class QLED 4K CanvasTV Series TV $697.99
$1,000.01 Save $302.02 Get Deal

If you’ve had your eye on Samsung's Frame TV but can’t stomach the cost, we found a deal on a dupe that’s worth considering.

As of Sept. 3, you can get the Hisense 55-inch Class QLED 4K CanvasTV Series TV for just $697.99, down from $999.99 at Amazon. That's a 30% discount and a $302 savings. While it's not the absolute rock-bottom price, it's only about $10 more, so you're still snagging a solid deal.

SEE ALSO: What's the best time of year to buy a TV? Yes, there's an answer.

The whole point of this TV is to look like art on your wall, and not just another screen (just like the Frame). The Art Mode lets you put up paintings when you're not watching shows, and the anti-glare, Hi-Matte screen is what keeps it from looking like a cheap screensaver. Everything you need to get that flush-mount look comes right in the box, including the wall mount itself and a snap-on teak frame.

When it's time to actually watch something, it's still a top-notch 4K QLED TV. The picture is super vibrant (thanks to Quantum Dot tech), and if you're a gamer, the 144Hz Game Mode Pro will keep things from getting choppy. Since it's a Google Smart TV, all your streaming apps are already built-in, so you're good to go.

SAVE $150: The 10th Gen Apple iPad (256GB) is on sale for $349 at Amazon, down from the list price of $499. That's a 30% discount that matches the lowest price on record at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad (10th Gen, 256GB) $349 at Amazon
$499 Save $150 Get Deal

We have just a few days left before we're graced with a new season of one of the best shows ever — The Great British Bake Off. If you plan to tune into the new season on your tiny phone screen when it drops on Netflix, it's time to reconsider. How will you catch the finite details of cake week on a mini screen? That show, and plenty of other new fall shows, deserve to be viewed on a top-quality tablet.

As of Sept 3, the 10th Gen Apple iPad (256GB) is on sale for $349 at Amazon, marked down from the list price of $499. That's a 30% discount that takes $150 off the price. It also matches the lowest on record at Amazon. Keep in mind you'll want to go with the pink colorway to score this deal. If you're not a pink person, a tablet cover will fix that right up.

With a 10.9-inch display, the Apple iPad is the perfect accessory to get you through the fall and winter season by streaming your favorites. It's also a great size for travel or taking to campus for taking notes during lectures. It clocks in at just a smidge over one pound. Plus, you can turn the Apple iPad into a mini laptop by pairing it with the Magic Keyboard Folio.

SEE ALSO: The Apple AirTag is a must-have item and it's still on sale after Labor Day

This model comes with 256GB of storage, so you won't need to be too picky about downloads and it has a 12MP front and back camera for video chats. Apple mentions this model has "all-day battery life" which the brand equates to 10 hours of web surfing on watching videos over WiFi.

Apple launched the 10th Gen Apple iPad in 2022 and it uses the A14 bionic chip. While this isn't the latest and greatest Apple iPad, it does a great job, especially considering this sale price and upgraded storage of 256GB.

Start fall streaming season off right by viewing on a luxurious screen thanks to the 10th Gen Apple iPad. It's a game-changer for watching shows and it's also highly portable and weighs just one pound. What's not to love?

To say I was skeptical coming into The Paper would be an understatement.

After all, producing a spinoff of the U.S. version of The Office seemed like a fool's errand. How could you possibly hope to live up to one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time? Any new characters risked living in the shadow of Michael Scott (Steve Carell) and Dwight Schrute (Rainn Wilson), and the threat of using cloying fan service to win back fans of the original series loomed large. Not even the involvement of The Office creator Greg Daniels and Nathan for You's Michael Koman could put an end to my worries.

SEE ALSO: 'The Office' spinoff: Everything you need to know about 'The Paper'

Then, I pressed play on the first episode, and all my worries melted away.

From the jump, The Paper captures the spirit of The Office, from its mockumentary format and cringe comedy to the return of The Office's own Oscar (Oscar Nuñez). But it also manages to forge a path of its own, all thanks to its already obsession-worthy ensemble and a surprisingly pertinent take on the current state of journalism.

How is The Paper connected to The Office? Sabrina Impacciatore and Domhnall Gleeson in "The Paper." Credit: John P. Fleenor / Peacock

That new path begins with The Paper's main conceit. The show doesn't return to The Office's stomping grounds of Scranton, Pennsylvania. Instead, it heads to Toledo, Ohio, where the Dunder Mifflin documentary crew has found a new subject in the local paper, the Toledo Truth Teller.

Once a lauded historical institution, the Toledo Truth Teller is now an understaffed, underfunded shell of its former self. Instead of writing about Toledo news, managing editor Esmeralda (Sabrina Impacciatore) thrives on writing clickbait articles for the online version of the paper. Unfortunately, "You Won't Believe How Much Ben Affleck Tipper His Limo Driver" is no replacement for in-depth local reporting.

SEE ALSO: 'The Paper' trailer: 'The Office' spinoff follows a struggling newspaper

Enter Ned (Domhnall Gleeson), the Truth Teller's new editor-in-chief. An idealistic journalism lover, Ned's dream is to bring back the Truth Teller's glory days. But with no funding from up top, he'll have to resort to creative solutions, like recruiting the Truth Teller's accountants and ad sales reps as volunteer reporters.

The new Truth Teller team's lack of journalism experience makes up a solid chunk of The Paper's comedy, as these inexperienced reporters bumble through finding stories, forget to fact-check sources, and carry out ridiculous undercover investigations. The Paper also follows in The Office's cringe comedy footsteps, reveling in characters who can't stop digging holes for themselves. From awkward exchanges about #MeToo to some seriously repressed daddy issues, brace yourself for scenes that will have you screeching in discomfort. (Don't worry, Office fans, at least there's nothing quite as bad as "Scott's Tots.")

The Paper's ensemble is downright delightful. Chelsea Frei, Ramona Young, Melvin Gregg, Gbemisola Ikumelo, Alex Edelman, Eric Rahill, and Oscar Nuñez in "The Paper." Credit: John P. Fleenor / Peacock

Just like in The Office, The Paper's greatest strength is the cast of characters it's building: a group of coworkers with little in common aside from their workplace, who soon become so much more.

Leading the team is Gleeson's Ned, whom The Paper smartly avoids turning into a Michael Scott copycat. For starters, Ned is actually a competent manager, one who tries to help his colleagues become better journalists instead of terrorizing them with "that's what she said" jokes. That doesn't mean he's without his flaws, though. His desire for approval and journalistic prestige leads down some wildly embarrassing roads, making him one of my favorite character tropes: guy who seems normal but can quickly become unhinged with the right trigger. (See also: Parks and Recreation's Ben Wyatt and the Cones of Dunshire.)

Ned finds a more outwardly bizarre foil in Impacciatore's Esmeralda, who yearns for the spotlight of the documentary, and also to regain control of the Truth Teller. Her scheming and antagonistic relationship with the rest of the staff make her The Paper's closest analogue to Dwight Schrute, but she's a wild card all in her own right. White Lotus viewers who enjoyed Impacciatore's more uptight turn as Season 2's resort manager Valentina will have a blast watching her unleash here, as Esmeralda's delusion and obsession with "sexy" clickbait clash nicely with Ned's ideas for the Truth Teller.

SEE ALSO: The internet is talking like Kevin from 'The Office' now

In addition to Gleeson and Impacciatore, The Paper's ensemble runs like a well-oiled machine even after just ten episodes together. As the only other member of the Truth Teller with actual journalism experience, Mare (Chelsea Frei) makes for a great straight woman to the rest of the cast's antics. The Paper also establishes her and Ned's bonding as the beginnings of a Jim and Pam style "will they, won't they" relationship, but for the most part, it prioritizes Mare rediscovering her love of reporting alongside someone who's actually willing to give her resources for it. So far, I'm rooting for them, but I'm rooting for the whole paper to succeed more!

As the only returning main Office cast member, Nuñez serves as a nice bridge between the two shows. A gag about him not wanting to be on camera again is a solid bonus, and allows the documentary crew to be an active presence early on. Rounding out the main cast are Melvin Gregg, Ramona Young, Tim Key, Gbemisola Ikumelo, and Alex Edelman, who, when thrown into any large meeting scenes together, stir up beautiful comedic chaos.

While The Paper does a solid job balancing its ensemble's roles and cooking up new character combinations from episode to episode, Ikumelo's anti-establishment Adelola and Edelman's sheltered family man Adam get the least to do so far. However, they have all the makings of supporting roles who will take a step up in later seasons, and Ikumelo and Edelman clearly have the chops to bring more to the table if given the opportunity.

The Paper nails the current state of journalism, and I feel attacked. Duane Shepard Sr. and Oscar Nuñez in "The Paper." Credit: John P. Fleenor / Peacock

While The Office took place at a paper company, it wasn't about selling paper. Instead, it was about how Dunder Mifflin's employees found human connection in an often demoralizing workplace. The Paper transfers that same search for connection to the often demoralizing — and currently suffering — field of journalism. In doing so, it becomes as much a show about journalism as it is a workplace comedy.

According to a 2025 report by Muck Rack and Rebuild Local News, there's been a 75 percent decline in local journalists per 100,000 residents on average since 2002. The Paper cannily reflects that decline by juxtaposing the Truth Teller's storied past with its bleak present. The paper's staff used to take up an entire building, but now, in a painful twist of fate, they're relegated to a small section of a floor otherwise devoted to the Softees toilet paper company. The show's opening credits add further to the bleakness, with images of people using the Truth Teller to wrap sandwiches or potty train their dogs — basically, as anything but an actual news source.

The Paper's portrayal of journalism doesn't just apply to local, print outlets, but to digital media, too. Esmeralda's ad-ridden clickbait articles are reminiscent of online content mills, while Ned's attempts to find the Truth Teller's version of Wirecutter or Wordle speak to the ways in which publications hope to remain relevant and profitable thanks to methods like affiliate links (which this article contains!) and games. Ned even starts beef with a high schooler whose local news blog has 300,000 followers, a reflection of the divide between old media and new media journalists. It's damn funny, but it's also painfully accurate. (For journalists, emphasis on the pain.)

Thanks to its focus on local journalism, The Paper becomes the latest in a trend of mockumentaries that highlight the plight of employees in crumbling, yet vital institutions. ABC's Abbott Elementary showcases the struggles of public school teachers, while NBC's St. Denis Medical examines the stress on doctors and nurses at an underfunded hospital. They, along with The Paper, function both as comedies and as extra-relevant windows into the crises workers in these fields are facing.

That focus is what brings The Paper over the edge. Yes, it and its brilliant ensemble stand on the shoulders of The Office. But it's so much more than a carbon copy, and it has the potential to be a sitcom that's great all on its own.

All episodes of The Paper premiere Sept. 4 on Peacock.

Novak Djokovic may be chasing yet another Grand Slam title at the 2025 U.S. Open, but his mind — and his moves — are never far from home. And KPop Demon Hunters.

During his tournament press conference on Tuesday, the 24-time Grand Slam champion expressed a bittersweet truth: advancing deep into the competition would mean missing his daughter Tara's eighth birthday. And after a quarterfinal victory over American hopeful Taylor Fritz, Djokovic now finds himself in exactly that position.

But the mercurial Serbian tennis superstar turned a rare moment of levity into a viral one.

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In his post-match interview, 38-year-old Djokovic delivered a surprise performance that lit up New York's Arthur Ashe Stadium and social media. Channeling his inner K-pop idol, he broke into the fizzy choreography from KPop Demon Hunters, the wildly popular Netflix film in which a fictional K-pop girl group, HUNTR/X, battles demons and breaks records. One of the film's catchiest hits, "Soda Pop," from dreamy demon boy band the Saja Boys, currently sits at no. 5 on Billboard's Hot 100 singles chart — and no. 1 in Tara's heart, apparently.

"For Tara. Soda popping into semifinal," he posted on X, along with a photo of the picture-perfect moment on the court.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. SEE ALSO: Netflix's 'KPop Demon Hunters' review: Balancing demon-slaying with idol realness

"This is a big present for her," Djokovic told press with a grin after the match. "The dance at the end — she’s going to rate me tomorrow. Because she told me how to dance... We're at home doing different choreographies [from the movie], and this is one of them, so hopefully I'll make her smile when she wakes up tomorrow morning."

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The moment offered a rare glimpse into Djokovic’s off-court life, where Grand Slam prep sometimes takes a backseat to dance rehearsals with his daughter.

KPop Demon Hunters director Maggie Kang reposted Djokovic's courtside interview, adding, "Well, this is a nice surprise." She even replied directly to the tennis star, thanking him and Tara for the "KPDH love." Arden Cho, the voice of Rumi in the film, also excitedly reacted to the clip, posting, "This was incredible!!! Let’s goooooo!!!"

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The win over Fritz improves Djokovic’s 2025 record to 31-9 and secures his place in the semifinals of every major this season. Up next? A blockbuster clash with world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz on Friday, Sept. 5 — a match fans have been waiting for.

SAVE OVER $800: As of Sept. 3, get the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max solar generator for $1,198.99 a Amazon. That's down from its usual price of $2,019.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon EcoFlow Delta 2 Max $1,198.99 at Amazon
$2,019 Save $820.01 Get Deal

Fall is here, and that means it's time for spooky season, color-changing leaves, and cozy nights in. That being said, there's still the very real risk for severe weather and other situations that could put your power at risk. A good way to make sure you're covered even in an emergency is a portable power station.

Today, you can get a power station at Amazon that can get you through even the gnarliest of disasters, at least for a while. As of Sept. 3, get the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max solar generator for $1,198.99 a Amazon, down from its usual price of $2,019. That's over $800 off for a limited time.

SEE ALSO: The Anker Solix C800 portable power station is down to its best-ever price at Amazon

The EcoFlow Delta 2 Max portable power station gives you 2,048Wh of power to do whatever you need, which means you can recharge your phone, keep your laptop powered to get some work done, or cook some food with small appliances. It can also make sure you have light so you can actually see what you're doing in an emergency.

It can power all of your important devices in addition to your refrigerator, medical appliances like CPAP machines, and other electronic items that you may otherwise find necessary for daily life. It also has a 220W solar panel to help charge it back up, with six AC ports, four USB, and two USB-C ports at 100W to make this an even easier affair.

Don't get caught unprepared this fall, and snag a power station that has your back while it's on sale.