IT General

Google Messages is constantly adding new features that enrich its interactivity, safety, and spam protection capabilities. Through recent iOS updates, Apple's Messages app, too, has been leveling up with new features.

I came for the kitty ears and stayed for the Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro headset’s comfort, RGB lighting, and stellar sound quality. Between its sound, lighting, and plush comfort, I can confirm this is a gaming headset I’d happily use every gaming session.

If you want reliable tech that performs well without causing heartache when you check your bank account, Anker is your best friend. From travel-friendly chargers to massive projectors, Anker (and its brand family of Soundcore, Solix, and Eufy) consistently nails offering excellent products with thoughtful design that do not cost a sob-worthy amount.

Portable power stations have become the hot product recently, and that’s for good reason. Who doesn’t want to keep their phone charged while camping or the WiFi router on during a power outage? Anker has proven itself to be a leader in the portable power station world, and in testing, we found the Solix C1000 to strike the perfect balance between usability and affordability. Now, Anker has released the Solix C1000 Gen 2, which comes with a handful of noticeable tweaks. Which one is better? We put the new model to the test to decide which version wins our charged-up hearts (and gadgets).

Show-off features of the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2

The Gen 2 version of the Anker Solix C1000 feels like the original went to a finishing school and came out with a new level of refinement. It’s a bit shinier, has a fancy LCD display, two of its USB-C ports can now handle 140W, and it charges quicker. Its charging capabilities have earned it a Guinness World Record for the fastest recharging portable power station in the 1,000Wh category, clocking in at a time of 49 minutes. 

Recharging the Solix C1000 Gen 2 can take under 50 minutes. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

This whizzing-fast time comes with the asterisk that you’ll need to head into the accompanying Anker app and activate UltraFast recharging. Simply plugging it into AC wall power won’t be quite as quick. If you opt for recharging with solar panels, you can connect up to 600W to get a full recharge in about two hours.

The LCD display on the Solix C1000 Gen 2 is slick, and it’s incredibly user-friendly, especially for beginners. If you’re searching for a portable power station to take camping, the Solix C1000 Gen 2 weighs just under 25 pounds, and the two side handles make this model incredibly portable. I found it easier to carry compared to the original Solix C1000.

Coming in at just under 25 pounds, the Solix C1000 Gen 2 is pretty easy to carry around. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

It’s powerful enough to keep your refrigerator cooling during a power outage and operate the espresso machine in the morning. Its quiet operation of under 20 decibels when powering at under 200W means it’s awesome for a CPAP machine or keeping the air purifier going in the nursery at night.

Anker also upped its game with the Solix C1000 Gen 2 in terms of uninterrupted power supply (UPS), which comes in at just 10 milliseconds. That’s handy if you’ll be powering your desktop workstation and can’t afford for it to power off during an outage. The same could be said for medical devices. 

The layout of the ports on the Gen 2 is also great, and there’s ample space around each AC outlet to plug in chunkier chargers like camera batteries or rechargeable batteries. 

The Solix C1000 Gen 2 provided morning espresso from a beastly De'Longhi machine with no issues. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

The C1000 Gen 2 comes with 1,024Wh of capacity, and it cannot accept an expansion battery. That’s in contrast to the original C1000, which has 1,056Wh and can be connected to one additional battery, which doubles the capacity for a total of 2,112Wh. Here are some specs to study when deciding if the Gen 2 Solix C1000 is a good fit for your needs:

Specs

• Capacity: 1,024Wh

• Continuous output: 2,000W pure sine wave

• Peak output: 3,000W

• Weight: 24.9 pounds

• Dimensions: 15.1 in. L × 8.2 in. W × 9.6 in. H

• Power options: AC, USB-C (140W), USB-A

• Recharging options: Grid power, solar, car

• Battery type: LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate)

• Life cycles: 80 percent capacity after 4,000 cycles

How does the Solix C1000 Gen 2 compare to the original Solix C1000?

Any time a brand offers an updated version, it’s worth closely comparing the specs. The original shines in a few areas, while the updated Gen 2 has some fancy upgrades. Here’s a breakdown of key differences:

Solix C1000

• List price: $999

• Power capacity: 1,056Wh

• Peak output: 2,000W

• UPS: 20 ms

• Weight: 28.44 pounds

• Dimensions: 14.8 in. L × 8.1 in. W × 10.5 in. H

• Light bar: Yes

• Expandable: Yes

• AC recharging time: 58 minutes

• Port options: 6 AC, 2 USB-C (1 at 100W), 2 USB-A

Solix C1000 Gen 2

• List price: $799

• Power capacity: 1,024Wh

• Peak output: 3,000W

• UPS: 10 ms

• Weight: 24.9 pounds

• Dimensions: 15.1 in. L × 8.2 in. W × 9.6 in. H

• Light bar: No

• Expandable: No

• AC recharging time: 49 minutes

• Port options: 5 AC, 3 USB-C (2 at 140W), 1 USB-A

The Anker Solix C1000 (left) is noticeably larger and heavier than the Solix C1000 Gen 2 (right). Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

Overall, Anker made some great improvements with the Solix C1000 Gen 2. It can recharge quicker, is lighter and more compact, has a higher peak output, and has a more responsive uninterruptible power supply (UPS). It also has dual 140W USB-C ports, whereas the original Solix C1000 tops out at 100W.

On the downside, the new Gen 2 holds slightly less power compared to the original Solix C1000: 1,024Wh compared to 1,056Wh on the original. Anker also removed the lightbar on the new model, and it’s not compatible with an expansion battery. Presumably, Anker had to axe these extras to cut down on weight and size.

The overall price is another major consideration. On list price alone, the Solix C1000 Gen 2 offers a much better value since it costs $200 less. But if we’re being honest, we hardly ever see either of these models selling at full price. They’re almost always at some discount on Amazon.

The Gen 2 version of the Anker Solix C1000 has two 140W USB-C ports, compared to the original C1000 which tops out at 100W. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

Boiled down, unless you cannot live without a lightbar or you fully intend on adding an expansion battery, the C1000 Gen 2 is likely your best bet. However, if one model is significantly cheaper than the other, we’d opt for whichever is less expensive. The differences are slight enough that many people won’t notice much difference at all.

Buyer beware: the Solix C1000 Gen 2 has two versions, and one is not ideal

Life is hard enough these days that we do not need to overcomplicate things. But Anker has done something kind of confusing here, and you’ll need to take a few moments to fully inspect which Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 you’re buying because there are two versions.

There’s the standard Solix C1000 Gen 2, which is what we tested, and it comes with a full-width LCD screen and five AC ports. But then there’s also the Anker Solix C1000X Gen 2. Take note of the added “X” on there. This “X” model, sold at some retailers including Best Buy, has a smaller LCD screen and only four AC ports. The guts and other stats of both portable power stations are exactly the same. Both the Solix C1000 Gen 2 and the Solix C1000X Gen 2 come with the same price tag, which leads us to discourage going with the C1000X Gen 2. You lose one AC port and get a smaller display with the X version, so the C1000 Gen 2 works out to be a better value.

Is the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 worth buying?

The Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 builds on the perfection of the original Solix C1000, but it’s lighter, charges quicker, comes with 140W USB-C ports, and has a more user-friendly display. Its MSRP is lower, and at full price, the Gen 2 offers a better value. However, if you prioritize a lightbar, want the ability to add an expansion battery, or you don’t care about spending an extra 10 minutes to get a full recharge, you’re probably better off with the original Solix C1000.

All that being said, both models are so close in performance and features that most people should simply buy whichever model is currently cheaper. At the time of writing, the Anker Solix C1000 has seen better discounts at Amazon. That’s especially true during Prime Day events when we’ve seen the price drop all the way to $375.

In the end, you cannot go wrong with either Anker Solix C1000 model. The brand simply nails offering solid portable power that’s user-friendly and affordable.

Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 $397.99 at Amazon
$799 Save $401.01   Shop Now at Amazon

Cement is everywhere, and with current urbanisation rates, the sturdy construction material isn't going anywhere. But this comes at a huge environmental cost, as cement amounts to nearly eight percent of annual global greenhouse gas emissions. Can it be otherwise? Rotterdam-based tech startup Paebbl surely thinks so.

TL;DR: Live stream Cardinals vs. Packers in the NFL for free on 5Action. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with IPVanish.

The Green Bay Packers are the only NFC team that has not lost against a conference opponent this season. That record comes under threat this weekend when they face the Arizona Cardinals.

If you want to watch Cardinals vs. Packers in the NFL for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Cardinals vs. Packers?

Cardinals vs. Packers in the NFL starts at 4:25 p.m. ET on Oct. 19. This game takes place at the State Farm Stadium.

How to watch Cardinals vs. Packers for free

Cardinals vs. Packers in the NFL is available to live stream for free on 5Action.

5Action is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock 5Action from anywhere in the world.

SEE ALSO: Get Paramount+ for half price just in time for NFL Sundays

Live stream Cardinals vs. Packers for free by following these simple steps:

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

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 the UK

4. Visit 5Action

5. Live stream Cardinals vs. Packers for free from anywhere in the world

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The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Cardinals vs. Packers in the NFL without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream select fixtures from the NFL before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites to follow the whole season, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for unblocking streaming services is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for 5Action?

IPVanish is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on 5Action, for a number of reasons:

• 3,100 servers in 145+ locations including the UK

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

• AES 256 encryption and operates with a zero-logs privacy policy

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Unlimited simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to IPVanish is on sale for just $52.56 — 83% off for a limited time. This plan includes advanced privacy features, threat protection, unlimited connections, 24/7 support, and the 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Cardinals vs. Packers in the NFL for free with IPVanish.

Editor's Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, Mashable's parent company. Any products featured on Mashable are covered independently by our editorial team.

TL;DR: Live stream Chargers vs. Colts in the NFL for free on TVNZ+. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with IPVanish.

There are so many interesting NFL matchups this weekend, but the best? It might be Chargers vs. Colts. Both teams are coming into this game with positive records to far this season. The Indianapolis Colts have surprised everyone with their 5-1 start. Can they keep it going at the SoFi Stadium?

If you want to watch Chargers vs. Colts in the NFL for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Chargers vs. Colts?

Chargers vs. Colts in the NFL starts at 4:05 p.m. ET on Oct. 19. This game takes place at the SoFi Stadium.

How to watch Chargers vs. Colts for free

Chargers vs. Colts in the NFL 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 handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in New Zealand, meaning you can unblock TVNZ+ from anywhere in the world.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

Live stream Chargers vs. Colts for free by following these simple steps:

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

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 Chargers vs. Colts for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: IPVanish IPVanish (2-Year Plan) $52.56 at IPVanish (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Chargers vs. Colts in the NFL without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream select fixtures from the NFL before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites to follow the whole season, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for unblocking streaming services is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for TVNZ+?

IPVanish is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on TVNZ+, for a number of reasons:

• 3,100 servers in 145+ locations including New Zealand

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

• AES 256 encryption and operates with a zero-logs privacy policy

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Unlimited simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to IPVanish is on sale for just $52.56 — 83% off for a limited time. This plan includes advanced privacy features, threat protection, unlimited connections, 24/7 support, and the 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Chargers vs. Colts in the NFL for free with IPVanish.

Editor's Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, Mashable's parent company. Any products featured on Mashable are covered independently by our editorial team.

TL;DR: Live stream Titans vs. Patriots in the NFL for free on TVNZ+. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with IPVanish.

The NFL action continues with this weekend with Titans vs. Patriots. The Tennessee Titans are really struggling this season, and it's not going to get any easier when they face the 4-2 New England Patriots.

If you want to watch Titans vs. Patriots in the NFL for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Titans vs. Patriots?

Titans vs. Patriots in the NFL starts at 1 p.m. ET on Oct. 19. This game takes place at the Nissan Stadium.

How to watch Titans vs. Patriots for free

Titans vs. Patriots in the NFL 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 handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in New Zealand, meaning you can unblock TVNZ+ from anywhere in the world.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

Live stream Titans vs. Patriots for free by following these simple steps:

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

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 Titans vs. Patriots for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: IPVanish IPVanish (2-Year Plan) $52.56 at IPVanish (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Titans vs. Patriots in the NFL without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream select fixtures from the NFL before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites to follow the whole season, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for unblocking streaming services is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for TVNZ+?

IPVanish is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on TVNZ+, for a number of reasons:

• 3,100 servers in 145+ locations including New Zealand

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

• AES 256 encryption and operates with a zero-logs privacy policy

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Unlimited simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to IPVanish is on sale for just $52.56 — 83% off for a limited time. This plan includes advanced privacy features, threat protection, unlimited connections, 24/7 support, and the 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Titans vs. Patriots in the NFL for free with IPVanish.

Editor's Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, Mashable's parent company. Any products featured on Mashable are covered independently by our editorial team.

TL;DR: Live stream Chiefs vs. Raiders in the NFL for free on TVNZ+. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with IPVanish.

There are some huge NFL matchups taking place this weekend, and Chiefs vs. Raiders is right up there as one of the most interesting contests. Neither side is coming into this game with a positive record, but the Kansas City Chiefs are showing signs of rediscovering their form after losing their two opening games. That's bad news for the rest of the league.

If you want to watch Chiefs vs. Raiders in the NFL for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Chiefs vs. Raiders?

Chiefs vs. Raiders in the NFL starts at 1 p.m. ET on Oct. 19. This game takes place at Arrowhead Stadium.

How to watch Chiefs vs. Raiders for free

Chiefs vs. Raiders in the NFL 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 handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in New Zealand, meaning you can unblock TVNZ+ from anywhere in the world.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

Live stream Chiefs vs. Raiders for free by following these simple steps:

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

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 Chiefs vs. Raiders for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: IPVanish IPVanish (2-Year Plan) $52.56 at IPVanish (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Chiefs vs. Raiders in the NFL without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream select fixtures from the NFL before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites to follow the whole season, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for unblocking streaming services is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for TVNZ+?

IPVanish is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on TVNZ+, for a number of reasons:

• 3,100 servers in 145+ locations including New Zealand

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

• AES 256 encryption and operates with a zero-logs privacy policy

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Unlimited simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to IPVanish is on sale for just $52.56 — 83% off for a limited time. This plan includes advanced privacy features, threat protection, unlimited connections, 24/7 support, and the 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Chiefs vs. Raiders in the NFL for free with IPVanish.

Editor's Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, Mashable's parent company. Any products featured on Mashable are covered independently by our editorial team.

TL;DR: Get a lifetime subscription to 1minAI on sale for $79.99 with promo code SAVE20 through Nov. 2 — a single platform packed with the tools you’d normally need a bunch of apps to accomplish.

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From content writing and image editing to data analysis, 1minAI has you covered — all in one convenient spot.

1minAI makes it easy to handle a variety of tasks with a user-friendly setup, so you’re not wasting time hopping between different tools. Until Nov. 2, lifetime access to 1minAI is available for $79.99 when you enter promo code SAVE20. It includes everything from AI-driven writing assistance to design and photo editing options, letting you switch between projects without the constant app shuffle.

SEE ALSO: How to filter out AI on Pinterest

Plus, 1minAI gives you 4,000,000 credits each month, plus the chance to earn up to 450,000 extra credits monthly, giving you plenty of space to test, create, and explore without worrying about extra fees.

While AI tools are incredibly helpful, they aren’t perfect — and 1minAI is straightforward about that. You’ll get support with drafting, designing, and brainstorming, but human editing and oversight can bring your projects to the next level. Think of it as an AI sidekick that keeps things running smoothly, while you remain the creative mastermind.

Simplify your creative process and boost efficiency with 1minAI’s Business Plan lifetime subscription — all for $79.99 with code SAVE20 until Nov. 2.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

A magician.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

MAGUS

Hurdle Word 2 hint

To divide.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 4, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

DIVVY

Hurdle Word 3 hint

A feather.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 4, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

PLUME

Hurdle Word 4 hint

To scowl.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for August 4 Hurdle Word 4 answer

GLARE

Final Hurdle hint

To gawk.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

STARE

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

TL;DR: Live stream Jaguars vs. Rams in the NFL for free on TVNZ+. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with IPVanish.

There's a string on interesting NFL matchups to enjoy this weekend, including Jaguars vs. Rams. Both teams are sporting 4-2 records coming into this hotly-anticipated meeting in London.

If you want to watch Jaguars vs. Rams in the NFL for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Jaguars vs. Rams?

Jaguars vs. Rams in the NFL starts at 9:30 a.m. ET on Oct. 19. This game takes place at Wembley Stadium.

How to watch Jaguars vs. Rams for free

Jaguars vs. Rams in the NFL 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 handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in New Zealand, meaning you can unblock TVNZ+ from anywhere in the world.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

Live stream Jaguars vs. Rams for free by following these simple steps:

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

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 Jaguars vs. Rams for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: IPVanish IPVanish (2-Year Plan) $52.56 at IPVanish (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Jaguars vs. Rams in the NFL without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream select fixtures from the NFL before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites to follow the whole season, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for unblocking streaming services is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for TVNZ+?

IPVanish is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on TVNZ+, for a number of reasons:

• 3,100 servers in 145+ locations including New Zealand

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

• AES 256 encryption and operates with a zero-logs privacy policy

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Unlimited simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to IPVanish is on sale for just $52.56 — 83% off for a limited time. This plan includes advanced privacy features, threat protection, unlimited connections, 24/7 support, and the 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Jaguars vs. Rams in the NFL for free with IPVanish.

Editor's Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, Mashable's parent company. Any products featured on Mashable are covered independently by our editorial team.

The moon is barely visible tonight, there's just a sliver of light left before it disappears completely. We’re only a day or so away from the New Moon, when it moves directly between Earth and the Sun.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Sunday, Oct. 19, the moon phase is Waning Crescent. Tonight, only 4% will be lit up, according to NASA's Daily Moon Observation.

Unfortunately, there's nothing to see without any visual aids tonight. However, if you have a pair of binoculars or a telescope you'll be able to catch a glimpse of the Grimaldi Basin, an impact basin 124 miles in diameter.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will be on Nov. 5.

What are moon phases?

The Moon follows a continuous cycle that lasts about 29.5 days as it travels around Earth. These shifts occur because the positions of the Sun, Earth, and Moon are always changing relative to one another. From Earth, we might see the Moon as full, partly lit, or completely dark, but the same side always faces us. What varies each night is how much sunlight reaches and reflects off its surface.

The eight main moon phases are:

New Moon - The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)

Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) - Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

Happy Thursday and welcome to your guide to Pips, the latest game in the New York Times catalogue.

Released in August 2025, the Pips puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.

Currently, if you're stuck, the game only offers to reveal the entire puzzle, forcing you to move onto the next difficulty level and start over. However, we have you covered! Below are piecemeal answers that will serve as hints so that you can find your way through each difficulty level.

How to play Pips

If you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity for how Pips is played. As we've shared in our previous hints stories for Pips, the tiles, like dominoes, are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. The main difference between a traditional game of dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for October 18, 2025

The conditions you have to meet are specific to the color-coded spaces. For example, if it provides a single number, every side of a tile in that space must add up to the number provided. It is possible – and common – for only half a tile to be within a color-coded space.

Here are common examples you'll run into across the difficulty levels:

• Number: All the pips in this space must add up to the number.

• Equal: Every domino half in this space must be the same number of pips.

• Not Equal: Every domino half in this space must have a completely different number of pips.

• Less than: Every domino half in this space must add up to less than the number.

• Greater than: Every domino half in this space must add up to more than the number.

If an area does not have any color coding, it means there are no conditions on the portions of dominoes within those spaces.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for October 18, 2025 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Oct. 18 Pips

Less Than (3): Everything in this space must be less than 3. The answer is 1-3, placed horizontally.

Equal (3): Everything in this space must be equal to 3. The answer is 1-3, placed horizontally; 3-3, placed vertically; 3-5, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (3): Everything in this space must be greater than 3. The answer is 3-5, placed horizontally.

Equal (1): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 1-1, placed vertically.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for Oct. 18 Pips

Less Than (2): Everything in this space must be less than 2. The answer is 1-0, placed vertically.

Number (6): Everything in this space must add to 6. The answer is 2-1, placed vertically; 3-4, placed vertically.

Greater Than (2): Everything in this space must be greater than 2. The answer is 3-4, placed vertically.

Equal (6): Everything in this space must be equal to 6. The answer is 6-6, placed horizontally; 6-2, placed vertically.

Number (8): Everything in this space must add to 8. The answer is 3-1, placed vertically; 5-1, placed horizontally.

Equal (1): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 3-1, placed vertically; 1-1, placed horizontally.

Hard difficulty hints, answers for Oct. 18 Pips

Equal (2): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 2-2, placed horizontally; 2-5, placed vertically.

Greater Than (4): Everything in this space must be greater than 4. The answer is 2-5, placed vertically.

Number (6): Everything in this space must add to 6. The answer is 4-3, placed vertically; 3-6, placed horizontally.

Number (8): Everything in this space must add to 8. The answer is 4-6, placed horizontally; 4-2, placed vertically.

Greater Than (4): Everything in this space must be greater than 4. The answer is 5-6, placed vertically.

Number (18): Everything in this orange space must add to 18. The answer is 3-6, placed horizontally; 4-6, placed horizontally; 1-6, placed horizontally.

Less Than (4): Everything in this space must be less than 4. The answer is 1-6, placed horizontally; 4-2, placed vertically.

Number (18): Everything in this purple space must add to 18. The answer is 5-6, placed vertically; 6-6, placed horizontally.

Number (10): Everything in this space must add to 10. The answer is 5-5, placed horizontally.

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

Today's Connections: Sports Edition requires expertise in women's tennis.

As we've shared in previous hints stories, this is a version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier — so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections: Sports Edition?

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. Here's a hint for today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow: Teams in hot places

• Green: Boat sport

• Blue: FKA Lou Alcindor

• Purple: She's #1

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

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

• Yellow: Warm Team Names

• Green: Rowing Terms

• Blue: Associated with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

• Purple: WNBA Draft No. 1 Picks

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections: Sports Edition #391 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• Warm Team Names - FIRE, FLAMES, HEAT, SUNS

• Rowing Terms - BOW, COXSWAIN, REGATTA, STERN

• Associated with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar - 33, LAKERS, SKYHOOK, UCLA

• WNBA Draft No. 1 Picks - BIRD, BOSTON, CHARLES, PLUM

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new sports Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

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

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

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

The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult to solve if you're a klutz.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for October 17, 2025 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: To tip over

• Green: Found in a novel

• Blue: To go crazy

• Purple: Sweet treats

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

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

• Yellow: Topple

• Green: Parts of a book

• Blue: Lose it, with "Out"

• Purple: Chocolate bars plus a letter

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #861 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Topple: FALL, SPILL, TUMBLE, WIPEOUT

• Parts of a book: COVER, JACKET, LEAVES, SPINE

• Lose it, with "Out": BUG, FLIP, FREAK, WIG

• Chocolate bars plus a letter: CRUNCHY, DOVER, MARSH, SKORT

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for October 17, 2025

Are you also playing NYT Strands? Get all the Strands hints you need for today's puzzle.

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

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

Today's NYT Strands hints are easy if you love a Granny Smith.

Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game, requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

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

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for October 17, 2025 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for October 17, 2025 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: For the picking

The words are related to fruit.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe things that can be made with fruit.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Apples.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for October 19

• Sauce

• Jelly

• Butter

• Cider

• Apples

• Compote

• Strudle

• Fritter

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

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

Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you're a perfectionist.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for October 17, 2025 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for October 17, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Perfect.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter I.

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

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

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

IDEAL

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for October 17, 2025

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

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

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

I didn't have a decent gaming PC for much of my childhood. Yet I spent a solid six hours a day playing games that my rig could barely run. Now that I have a machine that can handle anything, I rarely push it to its limits. Surprisingly, I'm completely fine with that.

If you’re serious about online gaming, you’ve probably thought about upgrading your mouse. But those brand-name price tags are enough to make anyone click away. The good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune to get the same specs—you just need to find the right budget model.

When you arrive at TwitchCon 2025 at the San Diego Convention Center, you're immediately met with tight security. Bags are checked, backpacks are prohibited, and everyone passes through metal detectors. To access different areas inside, attendees must scan their wristbands — but these often malfunction, and security rarely makes exceptions.

With such a visible security presence, you'd think creators would feel safe. They don't — and for good reason.

SEE ALSO: Streamer Emiru reportedly assaulted during meet-and-greet at TwitchCon 2025

Emiru, a YouTuber and Twitch streamer with nearly two million followers, was assaulted at a meet-and-greet on the first day of TwitchCon. And, despite Twitch saying time and time again that "safety and security" is its "highest priority," she was left feeling "hurt and upset by how Twitch handled it during and after the fact."

"I don't understand how he was allowed to make it to me in the first place," Emiru wrote in a lengthy post on X.

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In a video posted to X, an individual approached Emiru, grabbed her, and tried to kiss her. She pushed them away before security intervened and pulled them away by the arm. Emiru says that security was her personal security, not a member of the TwitchCon security team. She said there were three or four TwitchCon security staff nearby "who did not react and let the guy walk away."

"The woman who is walking me away is my own personal manager, and behind the booth, the only two people who were checking on me and comforting me were her and my friend. None of the TwitchCon staff came to ask what happened or if I was okay," she wrote in her post.

After the video circulated widely on social media, Twitch wrote in a statement on X that it "immediately blocked this individual from returning to the TwitchCon premises, and they are banned indefinitely from Twitch, both online and in-person events." Emiru wrote that this is a "blatant lie."

"He was allowed to walk away from my meet and greet, and I didn't hear he was caught until hours after he attacked me, and it felt like this only happened because of my manager pressing for it, not because TwitchCon staff present thought it was a big deal," she wrote.

Twitch did not immediately respond to Mashable's request for comment on the conflicting accounts.

Emiru also noted that this incident follows TwitchCon's previous banning of her "favorite and usual security guard" for "holding a stalker’s arm to bring him to police" at a past event.

Now, she says this will be her final TwitchCon, and she encouraged others not to attend in the future.

"I did not feel cared for or protected, even bringing my own security and staff," she wrote. "I can't imagine how creators without those options would feel."

This isn’t the first time TwitchCon has been criticized for security concerns. In 2024, several Kick-affiliated streamers disrupted the event, harassing Twitch-affiliated creators on-site. This year, major streamers, including Valkyrae, QTCinderella, Hasan Piker, Disguised Toast, and Yvonnie, publicly announced they would not attend due to safety concerns.

Additional reporting by Crystal Bell.