IT General

Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you've seen Mean Girls.

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 13, 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 13, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Spiteful.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter T appears twice.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

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...

CATTY

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 13, 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.

My desktop Windows PC is rarely turned off, but when it is, it's hibernating, not sleeping. Similarly, I exclusively use Hibernate, not Sleep mode, on my Windows handhelds. Here's why.

SAVE OVER $200: As of Oct. 16, the Hisense 55-inch U8 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV has dropped to $795 at Amazon. This is $202.99 off its list price of $997.99

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 55-Inch Class U8 Mini-LED ULED 4K UHD TV $795 at Amazon
$997.99 Save $202.99   Get Deal

Considering how many great things there are to stream at the moment, it's nice when you have a TV that can keep up with everything you like to watch. If you've been feeling like it's time for an upgrade, there are thankfully some nice deals available at Amazon that you can score, even before the next big sale event hits. Right now, the Hisense 55-inch U8 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV has dropped to its best price yet at the retailer.

The Hisense 55-inch U8 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV is currently marked all the way down to $795, a 20% discount from its list price of $997.99. This marks a new all-time low price for the TV, so why wait until Black Friday to grab it? It's currently marked as a limited-time deal, so be quick to pick it up at this price.

SEE ALSO: Mashable readers know best — here's what our readers bought during October Prime Day

Since this Hisense TV is a Google smart TV, it can bring together all of your favorite streaming apps so you can bounce between different services to watch the shows and movies you enjoy. They'll look great, too, as this TV boasts 4K resolution, Mini-LED Pro technology, and QLED Color that'll make images look bright, vibrant, and crystal clear while you watch.

On top of that, this Hisense TV comes with Dolby Atmos audio and up to 82W 4.1.2 Multi-Channel Audio System, so you can feel fully immersed in what's happening on screen with high-quality sound as well. It even comes with Anti-Glare Low Reflection Pro panel technology, so you can minimize reflections on the screen.

This offer may not last for long, so don't miss out on the Hisense 55-inch U8 Mini-LED ULED 4K TV at its best price at Amazon. And if this TV is a bit too small for your liking, you can also score a great discount right now on the massive Hisense 98-inch QD5 QLED 4K TV at Amazon.

SAVE $423: As of Oct. 16, the VTOMAN Jump 1800 is on sale for $476.99 at Amazon. That's a 47% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: VTOMAN VTOMAN Jump 1800 $476.99 at Amazon
$899.99 Save $423   Get Deal

Whether it's connection on a camping trip or backup supply during a power cut, a portable power station is one of those devices that you're always grateful to have by your side. Models range from devices that can power a whole house for days, to smaller, more affordable options that keep your essentials running. The VTOMAN Jump 1800 falls somewhere in the middle. Usually priced at $899.99, as of Oct. 16 it's on sale for $476.99, almost a 50% discount.

It's an ideal power station for charging multiple devices in one go. It does so safely thanks to the battery with a built-in safety system to protect against overcharging, too much current, and other issues. You can easily plug in up to 12 devices at the same time using its AC outlets, DC ports, USB-A, and USB-C ports.

SEE ALSO: Save over $1,000 on the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus power station right now at Amazon

The battery can even be expanded from 1,548Wh to 3,096Wh with an extra battery if you need more power. You can also charge it with a solar panel, ideal for off-grid camping trips. On its own, it provides 1,800W of constant power, so it can run bigger appliances like heaters or ovens without shutting off. It also has 12V DC ports for things like car fridges, CPAP machines, or tire inflators.

VTOMAN states this model can handle around 3,000 cycles before dropping to 80% of its original capacity. So, if you're shopping for a power station to have on hand, check out this deal at Amazon while it lasts.

Sabrina Carpenter is hosting SNL this week, and in the promo clip above she channels every bit of her inner Carrie Bradshaw.

"New York is one Big Apple, and I'm taking my bite...at Saturday Night Live," says Carpenter's narration, over footage of the pop artist striding into the building and turning every cast and crew interaction into a fast-paced pun.

Based on Carpenter's acting in this brief segment alone, we're going to go out on a limb and say she may well have a lucrative side career in comedy ahead of her.

SAVE OVER $1,000: As of Oct. 16, the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus portable power station is on sale for $1,599 when you clip the coupon on Amazon. This is $1,200 off its list price of $2,799.

Opens in a new window Credit: Jackery Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus Portable Power Station $1,599 at Amazon
$2,799 Save $1,200   Get Deal

Do you desperately need backup power at home? Do you love the great outdoors? A portable power station is a must. And while they can sometimes come with hefty price tags, great deals occasionally pop up that are worth checking out. Over at Amazon, you can score the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus for over $1,000 off right now.

Thanks to a coupon that can be clipped on the store page, the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus has dropped from its list price of $2,799 to $1,599. This makes for $1,200 in savings, which is an excellent discount to take advantage of while it's still available.

SEE ALSO: Mashable readers know best — here's what our readers bought during October Prime Day

The Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus boasts a 3,600W output and features four AC outputs (120V, 20A), a TT-30 RV port (120V, 30A), two USB-C ports (100W Max), and two USB-A ports (18W Max). It also has a convenient design with wheels and a handle, so you can easily roll it to new places around your home or take it on the go.

Don't miss out on this coupon that saves you over $1,000 on the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus portable power station at Amazon.

This isn't the only portable power station deal Amazon has at the moment, either. If you're not looking to drop as much cash on a model, you can also save on the Gendome Go 300 Portable Power Station right now, which has dropped to just $119.99.

Given that they have a therapist/patient dynamic in If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, it's only fitting that Conan O'Brien and Rose Byrne take part in a little therapy of their own in the A24 promo above.

The therapy in question involves the pair painting a picture before discussing it with a therapist, and – given O'Brien is involved – it isn't long before things go completely off the rails.

The highlight? O'Brien arguing with both Byrne and the therapist herself.

SAVE $20: As of Oct. 16, the Fitbit Inspire 3 is on sale for $79.95 at Amazon. That's a 20% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Fitbit Inspire 3 $79.95 at Amazon
$99.95 Save $20   Get Deal

Fitness trackers can range from under $50 to almost $1,000. Some are so advanced they can predict race times, suggest recovery periods, and offer all manner of high-tech stats. But these models aren't for everyone, least of all because of the price. If you enjoy working out and want a watch that complements this without breaking the bank, check out the Fitbit Inspire 3.

And as of Oct. 16, it's on sale. Right now, you can take it home for just $79.95. All colors are discounted, so pick from midnight zen, lilac bliss, or morning glow.

SEE ALSO: Suunto has launched the Vertical 2 adventure watch — here's where to buy

This watch does a bit of everything. It tracks your activity, heart rate, sleep, and stress throughout the day and night. It comes with over 20 exercise modes, so whether you like to swim, run, or do yoga, it will monitor your performance. It also has automatic workout detection, so if you forget to press start, the watch will pick up your movement and track it anywhere. A lifesaver for the stats-obsessed among us.

It has great lifestyle features too, including Daily Readiness and Stress Management Scores. You can also monitor your sleep patterns, and use the smart wake alarm to get up more naturally. For more data, the watch comes with a six-month trial of Fitbit Premium. After the trial period it costs $9.99 a month.

Pick up this Fitbit deal from Amazon.

TL;DR: Suunto has launched the Vertical 2 watch. Get it from Amazon for $599.

Opens in a new window Credit: Suunto Suunto Vertical 2 $599 at Amazon
  Shop Now

There's a new fitness tracker on the market, and it's something for endurance athletes to lust over. Finnish brand Suunto has announced the Vertical 2 watch, officially hitting shelves on Oct. 15. It's described as an "advanced adventure watch", designed with serious endurance sports in mind.

This model has seen the heart rate sensor fully redesigned. It now gives you far more accurate stats across training, recovery, and health tracking. It also has a new processor and expanded memory, so things should run much faster.

SEE ALSO: Suunto has launched the Wing 2 bone conducting headphones — a runner's opinion

There are 115 sport modes to choose from, all with advanced training analytics, weather alerts, altitude data, and further stats. It even has offline maps and climb guidance — maps guide you through unfamiliar terrain, and climb guidance assists you in navigating hilly or mountainous ground through real-time elevation profiles. Users get color coded route sections and pre-warnings of climbs or descents.

The key to any endurance watch is the battery life. The Vertical 2 promises to last up to 65 hours with GPS tracking and up to 20 days with general smartwatch use. Perfect for multi-day treks or races.

Style-wise, the Vertical 2 has an impressive AMOLED display, keeping everything bright and colorful, even in direct sunlight. And whether you pick the steel or titanium option, this watch is seriously robust and is able to cope with all manner of activities.

Credit: Suunto

The Suunto Vertical 2 is available to buy right now. The stainless steel version comes in at $599, and is available in a huge range of colors including black, canyon, and sage. The titanium version retails at $699, and comes in black or sage colors. You can find both options from Amazon.

REGISTER YOUR TCL QLED TV, ENTER TO GET FREE STUFF: Now through Sunday, Feb. 8, TCL is carrying out weekly drawings for its Ultimate Season to Score Sweepstakes to win free prizes like regular season NFL tickets, gift cards, TCL tech, and one set of four tickets to the big game in February. To enter, you can register an eligible TCL QM6K, QM7K, QM8K, or QM9K TV. Multiple models are on sale as of Oct. 16.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL Ultimate Season to Score Sweepstakes Register your TV and enter here Learn More

The window between early October's Prime Big Deal Days and Black Friday would typically be considered a lull for TV deals. But that time frame suddenly sounds like one of the best times of year to buy a TV when free NFL tickets are up for grabs. Those are just one of the prizes you could win during TCL's Ultimate Season to Score Sweepstakes, and entry just requires registration of your TCL TV.

Every Thursday through Feb. 8, 2026, TCL is picking one to two winners per week to score a variety of sick recurring prizes: regular season NFL tickets of your choice, $500 Uber Eats and NFL Shop gift cards, TCL soundbars and tablets, Yeti coolers, and more. The big prize, however, is the real doozy: One lucky person will secure four tickets to the big game at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Feb. 8, plus hotel rooms, round-trip flights, NFL-hosted tailgate tickets, and $2,000 in spending money. That's casually $41,000 worth of free stuff.

SEE ALSO: What to look for when buying a TV, as told through this easy TV specs guide

Specific prizes coinciding with each drawing date and a full list of prizes can be found in the entry rules. You're limited to one entry per person per registered TCL product, but if you have more than one TCL TV, you can enter up to three total. If you don't win one week, your entry will be carried forward for all of the remaining drawings — so there's always hope.

TV models eligible for the giveaway include the TCL QM6K, QM7K, QM8K, and QM95 QD-Mini LED TVs.

Don't have a TCL to register yet? Almost every size of each of those series is on sale at Amazon or Best Buy, and we've curated a quick list of your options below. For the models available at Amazon (all but the QM9K), we've used Camelcamelcamel to check their price history and note which TVs are at a record-low sale price (or close to it).

Sweepstakes-eligible TCL QLED TVs on saleTCL QM6K deals

• TCL 55-inch QM6K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $497.99 $599.99 (save $102 at Amazon) (around $50 away from record low)

• TCL 75-inch QM6K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $749.99 $999.99 (save $250 at Amazon) (record low 🔥)

• TCL 85-inch QM6K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $997.99 $1,499.99 (save $502 at Amazon) (around $100 away from record low)

TCL QM7K deals

• TCL 55-inch QM7K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $697.99 $899.99 (save $202 at Amazon) (around $140 away from record low)

• TCL 65-inch QM7K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $899.99 $1,499.99 (save $600 at Best Buy)

• TCL 75-inch QM7K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $1,099 $1,499.99 (save $400.99 at Amazon) (around $100 away from record low)

• TCL 85-inch QM7K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $1,699.99 $2,499.99 (save $800 at Best Buy)

TCL QM8K deals

• TCL 65-inch QM8K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $1,299.99 $2,499.99 (save $1,200 at Best Buy)

• TCL 75-inch QM8K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $1,682.01 $1,999.99 (save $317.98 at Amazon) (around $184 away from record low)

• TCL 85-inch QM8K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $2,499.99 $3,799.99 (save $1,300 at Best Buy)

TCL QM9K deals

• TCL 65-inch QM9K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $1,999.99 $2,999.99 (save $1,000 at Best Buy)

• TCL 75-inch QM9K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $2,499.99 $3,499.99 (save $1,000 at Best Buy)

• TCL 85-inch QM9K QD-Mini LED 4K TV — $2,999.99 $3,999.99 (save $1,000 at Best Buy)

Need to get rid of an old TV to make room for your new one? You can recycle TVs at your local Best Buy store.

When scientists discovered an enormous black hole thousands of light-years from where it ought to be in space, they knew they had a cosmic oddity on their hands. 

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope showed a rare black hole that looked like the kind astronomers would find at the center of a galaxy. Instead, it was about 2,600 light-years from the core, which was occupied by an even more massive black hole. The discovery of the renegade, first spotted by the Zwicky Transient Facility in California, was only possible because it happened to light up after snacking on an unlucky star. 

But this bizarre black hole, the weight of 1 million or more suns, gets even weirder. In a new study led by UC Berkeley, researchers used radio telescopes to observe the strange object's behavior and found that the event, known as AT 2024tvd, prompted two clear bright flares of radio waves, changing faster than any other that scientists have seen.

"This is truly extraordinary," said Itai Sfaradi, first author of the research published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, in a statement. "Never before have we seen such bright radio emission from a black hole tearing apart a star, away from a galaxy’s center, and evolving this fast. It changes how we think about black holes and their behavior."

SEE ALSO: Scientists snap first photo of two black holes in an epic staredown

The first burst appeared about four months after the discovery and faded quickly. The second burst showed up about six months later, rising and falling even faster. The results show that powerful outflows of material were launched from the area of the black hole after the star's demise — not immediately after but months later, suggesting delayed and previously unknown processes at work.

Black holes are some of the most confounding things in space. They are regions where gravity is so intense that nothing can escape, not even light. About a half-century ago, astronomers weren't even sure they existed. Today, black holes aren't just confirmed, they're getting photographed. In 2019, the Event Horizon Telescope achieved the first image of a black hole, located 53 million light-years away in the Messier 87 galaxy.

The Hubble Space Telescope detects a tidal disruption event from a black hole, seen in this image north of the bright smudgy galactic center where another even larger supermassive black hole resides. Credit: NASA / ESA / STScI / Yuhan Yao / Joseph DePasquale

Black holes don't have surfaces. Instead, they have a boundary called an "event horizon," or a point of no return. If anything wanders too close — like the poor previously mentioned star — it will fall in, never to escape the hole's gravity.

Astronomers aren't sure how this gargantuan black hole got to its seemingly random location. One idea is that it came from another galaxy that at some point merged into its present galaxy about 600 million light-years away from Earth. Another idea is that it was evicted from the center of the galaxy by two bigger black holes in what's known as a three-body interaction.

"Theorists have predicted that a population of massive black holes located away from the centers of galaxies must exist," said Ryan Chornock, a coauthor at UC Berkeley, in a statement earlier this year, "but now we can use (these events) to find them.”

The scientific term for when a star wanders too close to a black hole is a tidal disruption event. When a black hole interacts with surrounding gas and dust, it throws out fast streams of material or narrow jets. These features can be observed in radio waves. So shortly after the tidal disruption was detected in optical and ultraviolet light, Sfaradi and colleagues set out to watch it with the Very Large Array, the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array, and other radio dishes.

The black hole's unusual location and rapid radio changes give scientists a new way to study black holes and their effects far from galactic cores. Continued monitoring may reveal more about the speed, timing, and behavior of the material the black hole ejects. This event's unusual behavior could be connected to the black hole's off-center location, or it might represent a phenomenon scientists haven't seen before. 

"This is one of the fascinating discoveries I’ve been part of," said Assaf Horesh, a coauthor based at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, in a statement. "The fact that it was led by my former student, Itai, makes it even more meaningful." 

The scientists used computer simulations to model how outflows or jets could produce the signals they saw. One explanation could be a single outflow launched about three months after the star was disrupted, with the double peaks in radio caused by the material hitting a complex environment around the black hole. Another possibility is that two separate outflows occurred, the first about three months after the event and the second about six months later.

TL;DR: Live stream Bengals vs. Steelers in the NFL for free on 7Plus. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with IPVanish.

The NFL action kicks off this week with the Bengals taking on the Steelers. The Steelers come into this matchup sporting an impressive 4-1 record, and many will fancy them to take a victory on the road.

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

When is Bengals vs. Steelers?

Bengals vs. Steelers in the NFL starts at 1 p.m. ET on Sept. 21. This game takes place at the Paycor Stadium.

How to watch Bengals vs. Steelers for free

Bengals vs. Steelers in the NFL is available to live stream for free on 7Plus.

7Plus is geo-restricted to Australia, 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 Australia, meaning you can unblock 7Plus from anywhere in the world.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

Live stream Bengals vs. Steelers 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 Australia

4. Visit 7Plus

5. Live stream Bengals vs. Steelers 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 Bengals vs. Steelers 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 7Plus?

IPVanish is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on 7Plus, for a number of reasons:

• 3,100 servers in 145+ locations including Australia

• 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 Bengals vs. Steelers 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: Upgrade your PC with seven helpful apps thanks to this Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows license, now for only $19.97 (reg. $229) until Oct. 19.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows $19.97
$229 Save $209.03   Get Deal

There’s a reason Microsoft Office has been a fixture in our lives for decades — these programs really work. Now known as apps, this suite of tools can help streamline your workflow, and this Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows license comes packed with seven different helpers.

Right now, you can get these apps for life for just $19.97 (reg. $229) — less than $3 each — but you have to act fast. This deal is only available for three more days and will end on Oct. 19 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

SEE ALSO: Unlock eight Adobe and Microsoft apps for just $90

Filled with seven different apps, this Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows license is an affordable way to give your PC a refresh. This deal brings them to less than $3 each, and you’ll be able to take advantage of these Microsoft Office staples for life.

Curious what this version includes? You’ll score classics like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, while also gaining access to newer additions like OneNote, Publisher, and Access.

Don’t be deceived by the year of this edition. The seven included apps have been redesigned and offer enhanced features and improved cloud connectivity. You’ll enjoy new analysis capabilities in Excel, new presentation tools in PowerPoint, and updated email and contact management features in Outlook.

Before purchasing, make sure you’re running Windows 10 or 11. It’s also recommended that you have at least 1GB of RAM.

Upgrade a PC with this Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows license, now for just $19.97 (reg. $229) through Oct. 19.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: For $55.19 (reg. $486), Sterling Stock Picker gives you lifetime access to AI-powered stock analysis, personalized insights, and a community that helps you invest smarter.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sterling Stock Picker Sterling Stock Picker: Lifetime Subscription $55.19
$486 Save $430.81   Get Deal

If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to start investing, here it is — because it’s not really about luck, timing, or guessing. The Sterling Stock Picker (SSP) gives you everything you need to step confidently into the market for a one-time payment of $55.19 (reg. $486).

Built for new and experienced investors alike, this software simplifies stock selection through AI-driven analysis, personalized insights, and done-for-you portfolio building. It’s like having a financial mentor — minus the intimidating jargon and hourly consulting fees.

SEE ALSO: Jack Dorsey launches Bitchat, a secure messaging app that doesn’t use the internet

Here’s what you get with Sterling Stock Picker:

• AI-powered analysis to evaluate and rank thousands of stocks

• Personalized portfolio builder aligned with your risk and goals

• Dynamic performance insights on sectors and industries

• Community learning hub with other investors

• Educational support to help you understand the why behind every move

Inside the platform, you’ll meet Finley, your personal AI financial coach (powered by OpenAI). Finley helps you understand your risk tolerance, pick stocks that align with your values, and even guides you on when to buy, hold, or sell — all based on real-time market data.

Whether you’re building your first portfolio or refining your strategy, SSP turns uncertainty into informed confidence — and makes investing feel less like a gamble and more like growth.

Get lifetime access to the Sterling Stock Picker while it’s just $55.19 with code SAVE20 through Nov. 2.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Looking for something great to watch at home? Streaming subscribers are spoiled for choice between Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Apple TV, Prime Video, Shudder, Paramount+, Peacock, and more. And that's before you even look at the vast libraries of movies and television programs within each streamer!

Don't be overwhelmed or waste an hour scrolling through your services to determine what to watch. We've got your back, whatever your mood. Mashable offers watch guides for all of the above, broken down by genre: comedy, thriller, horror, documentary, and animation, among others. But if you're seeking something brand-new (or just new to streaming), we've got you covered there, too.

Mashable's entertainment team has scoured the streaming services to highlight the most buzzed-about releases of the week and ranked them from worst to best — or least worth your time to most watchable. Whether you're looking for a Halloween-worthy watch, outrageous comedy, or your next true crime fixation, or some pulse-pounding animation, we've got something just for you.

11. R.L. Stine's Pumpkinhead

Seeking a horror movie for the young adult in your household? Well, we're happy to help you pick a perfect spooky season watch, from die-hard scare fans to Halloweenies. For kids who are new to bone-chilling terror, start them out with something more on the level of R.L. Stine's Goosebumps — like this movie inspired by his classic short story collection The Haunting Hour.

R.L. Stine's Pumpkinhead offers folk horror for the YA crowd. Written and directed by Jem Garrard, this bit of seasonal cinema centers on Sam, a teen boy who's new to Redhaven, a farming community that's really, weirdly into harvest season. After messing with a local farmer, Sam realizes his brother Finn has gone missing. And stranger still, people's memories of Finn are vanishing in the blink of an eye. Can Sam and his friend Becka save Finn before it's too late? Or will they be the next to fall to the curse of Pumpkinhead? — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

Starring: Bean Reid, Adeline Lo, Matty Finochio, Troy James, Kevin McNulty, Bob Frazer, Seth Isaac Johnson, and Kendra Anderson

How to watch: R.L. Stine’s Pumpkinhead debuts on Tubi on Oct. 17.

10. Other Olga Kurylenko stars in "Other." Credit: Shudder

Last year, writer/director David Moreau gave horror lovers the audaciously long-take and pulse-pounding zombie contagion thriller MadS. This year he offers Other, a home-invasion thriller that's creepy but not compelling.

Olga Kurylenko stars as Alice, a woman long-estranged from her abusive mother, but drawn back home by the news of the old woman's death... by having face eaten off. Unclear on the specifics of this grisly demise, Alice wanders around her childhood home, haunted by bad memories of a mother that demanded she be picture perfect for beauty pageants. But something forgotten and frightening lurks here with her, not just in her past but in the walls.

This movie is utterly bizarre but not in an entertaining way. The dialogue all sounds like it was recorded later, giving the film a strange quality right out of the gate. Then the story becomes a barrage of tiresome horror tropes we've seen before, tossed together in a way that's gruesome, confounding, and unsatisfying. — K.P.

Starring: Olga Kurylenko, Jean Schatz, and Lola Bonaventure

How to watch: Other debuts on Shudder on Oct. 17.

9. The Twits

Phil Johnston (Wreck-It Ralph, Zootopia) has found his latest inspiration in children's author Roald Dahl with this adaptation of Dahl's 1980 book The Twits.

A scuzzy, loud, and ever-rude couple called The Twits dreams of making an amusement park, but they've gone about in every wrong way you can — including imprisoning the mythical creatures the Muggle-Wumps to power the place. Thankfully, thanks to two brave and plucky orphans, Beesha and Bubsy, the Muggle-Wumps are freed. But that doesn't mean the Twits will give up. What follows is a gnarly tale of grown-ups trusting devious folks who promise a good economy and leadership, only to deliver hardship and hatred. Full of wild humor, cuddly critters, and life lessons, The Twits could be your kiddo's next obsession. But be warned for the sensitive of stomach: This one gets gross. Like, a man's butt explodes, as a plot point. — K.P.

Starring: Margo Martindale, Johnny Vegas, Natalie Portman, Emilia Clarke, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Ryan Lopez, Jason Mantzoukas, Timothy Simons, Alan Tudyk, and Nicole Byer

How to watch: The Twits debuts on Netflix on Oct. 17.

8. Loot, Season 3

You could always use more Maya Rudolph in your life, so be sure to get your required Rudolph dose with Season 3 of Loot.

The show follows billionaire Molly Wells (Rudolph), who's on a mission to use her $87 billion divorce settlement to do good with her philanthropic organization, the Wells Foundation. On top of Rudolph, Loot boasts a stacked ensemble cast that includes Joel Kim Booster, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Nat Faxon, and Ron Funches.* — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

Starring: Maya Rudolph, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Joel Kim Booster, Ron Funches, Nat Faxon, Meagen Fay, and Stephanie Styles

How to watch: Loot Season 3 debuted on Apple TV on Oct. 15 and is now streaming.

7. Murdaugh: Death in the Family

Before they were a focus of true crime media, the Murdaugh family was well-respected in their community, representing wealth, power, and justice as several generations of lawyers. Then came the boating accident that killed a young woman. Underage and drunk Paul Murdaugh was facing legal consequences for his recklessness. The resulting case threw a spotlight on his father Alex and mother Maggie that unearthed more secrets and led to more violence.

Inspired by the Murdaugh Murders Podcast by Mandy Matney, Murdaugh: Death in the Family explores beyond the headlines, forensic evidence, and court documents in an attempt to show what it was like living inside that mansion as their lives went from high-on-the-hog to absolute hell. Created by Michael D. Fuller and Erin Lee Carr, this docu-drama series might stir more empathy for the Murdaughs than you might have predicted. And yet, these scorching portrayals by Jason Clarke, Patricia Arquette, and Johnny Berchtold won't let any of the guilty off the hook. — K.P.

Starring: Jason Clarke, Patricia Arquette, J. Smith-Cameron, Johnny Berchtold, and Brittany Snow

How to watch: Murdaugh: Death in the Family premiered Oct. 15 on Hulu, and the first three episodes are now streaming.

6. The Perfect Neighbor

Director Geeta Gandbhir's documentary The Perfect Neighbor scored much praise out of its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival last January. And now you can see why.

This film tracks the ongoing dispute between two neighbors, and how that culminated in deadly violence. Rather than the standard talking-head interviews and reenactments, Gandbhir uses bodycam footage from police officers to illustrate how an everyday relationship turned so contentious. And there was a lot of footage to choose from, all because of one woman's dozens of 911 calls. Why? The answers might not shock you, but they'll definitely enrage you. — K.P.

How to watch: The Perfect Neighbor debuts on Netflix on Oct. 17.

5. Splinter Cell: Deathwatch

Sam Fisher is back, people. The first-ever screen adaption of Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell lands on Netflix this week, with the Ubisoft-produced animated series subtitled Deathwatch. Directed by Guillaume Dousse, the eight0episode series sees Liev Schreiber voicing the franchise's iconic protagonist, who's pulled out of retirement for “one last job” alongside a young agent with a mission to complete. — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

Starring: Liev Schreiber, Janet Varney, Kirby Howell-Baptiste, and Joel Oulette

How to watch: Splinter Cell: Deathwatch debuted on Netflix on Oct. 14 and is now streaming.

4. Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy

One of America's most notorious serial killers gets the true crime drama treatment in Peacock's Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy. Created by Patrick Macmanus, the show examines the arrest and trial of Gacy (Severance's Michael Chernus), who kidnapped, raped, and murdered 33 men and teenage boys from 1972 to 1978. 

SEE ALSO: Marin Ireland is ready for her moment

Unlike other hot-button true crime dramas of the moment (looking at you, Monster), Devil in Disguise works hard not to sensationalize Gacy's crimes. You won't see any of Gacy's murders play out, for example. Instead, Devil in Disguise dives into the lives of Gacy's victims before they crossed paths with him, hoping to show that there's more to their stories than just their deaths. The effect can be disjointed at times, and Devil in Disguise isn't totally immune to ogling at the lurid details of the Gacy case. Still, it's fascinating to watch a true crime drama reckon with its own genre, and Devil in Disguise proves these series can be chilling even without grisly on-screen murders. — B.E.

Starring: Michael Chernus, Gabriel Luna, James Badge Dale, Marin Ireland, and Michael Angarano

How to watch: Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy debuts on Peacock on October 16.

3. The Diplomat, Season 3

Debora Cahn's The Diplomat returns for more international crises, sharp scripts, and suppressed sexual tension. Season 2 ended with a major pivot involving U.S. Vice President Grace Penn (Allison Janney), and U.S. ambassador Kate Wyler (Keri Russell) knows too much about it to keep the White House's eyes off her. Meanwhile, as tensions between the U.S. and UK simmer, the new First Gentlemen (Bradley Whitford) arrives, UK Foreign Secretary Austin Dennison (David Gyasi) continues to be Kate's handsome ally, and Kate finds herself in political and personal quicksand. — S.C.

Starring: Keri Russell, Rufus Sewell, David Gyasi, Ali Ahn, Rory Kinnear, and Ato Essandoh

How to watch: The Diplomat Season 3 debuts on Netflix on Oct. 16.

2. Solar Opposites, Season 6

Solar Opposites is coming to an end with Season 6. But fret not, as this spacey sendup of family sitcoms has 10 more episodes of mayhem and extreme lunacy before its final curtain.

Shlorpians in the suburbs, Korvo, Terry, Yumyulack, and Jesse are facing an outrageous series of misadventures, involving hi-tech doo-dads, life-threatening bonk fests, and some kooky callbacks coming home to roost. Then, of course, there's the grand conclusion of the saga in The Wall. From the wild mind of Mike McMahan, Solar Opposites has become a dependable source of laughs for Rick & Morty fans, who love irreverence with their sci-fi. They will be missed, but what a terrifically bonkers way to go out. — K.P.

Starring: Thomas Middleditch, Sean Giambrone, Mary Mack, and Dan Stevens

How to watch: The sixth and final season of Solar Opposites premiered on Monday, October 13th on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+ and is now streaming.

1. An Intimate Evening with Adam Pally

You might remember Adam Pally from the beloved sitcom Happy Endings, his recent mockumentary series with Stephen Curry Mr. Throwback, or from a barrage of film appearances in everything from Sonic the Hedgehog 3 to Iron Man 3 and The Gutter. But you've never seen Pally quite like this.

SEE ALSO: 'Mr. Throwback's Adam Pally busts out his impressions while playing 'Say, Action!'

An Intimate Evening with Adam Pally might sound like a stand-up special. However, the audience who attended this sold-out performance at The Bell House in Brooklyn was exposed to something silly, musical, and most strange. As teased in the trailer above, Pally "plays guitar at" his audience, launching into earnest covers of original songs — ones that they couldn't get the licensing rights to for the special. That means at-home audiences will see Pally playing his heart out while hearing audio of him arguing with doc director Brent Hodge instead of — for example — songs from Bruce Springsteen, Tears for Fears, and Oasis.

Similar disruptions occur, making this comedy special a collection of song, jokes, and meta humor that parodies the concept of the stand-up special doc itself. The result is a wild ride at just 56 minutes, but one we'd definitely recommend. — K.P.

Starring: Adam Pally

How to watch: An Intimate Evening with Adam Pally debuts on HBO Max on Oct. 17.

(*) denotes a blurb comes from a previous list.

SAVE $70: As of Oct. 16, the LG Ultrafine 32-inch is on sale for $229.99 at Amazon. That's a 23% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG Ultrafine 32-Inch Monitor $299.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now

If you've been working from home since 2020, chances are your setup is in need of an upgrade. Many of us threw together a haphazard, rushed space to work, and all these years later it has remained the same. Well, no more, because right now you can get a reduced monitor at Amazon for $70 less. As of Oct. 16, the LG 32UR500K-B Ultrafine 32-inch is reduced to $229.99, and it's a great choice for any desk.

It has a 32-inch 4K UHD display which ensures everything you do is of the highest quality, with sharp detail and vibrant colors. The HDR10 keeps everything looking true to how it was meant to be seen, and the built-in MaxxAudio speakers add a more immersive sound. You can add external speakers if you want to, but you don't need to.

SEE ALSO: Samsung's immersive Odyssey G9 gaming monitor just got $500 cheaper

For an extended setup, it's super easy to adjust settings like the split screen mode, and the ergonomic stand lets you tilt the display to a comfortable angle, goodbye neck pain.

And it doesn't have to be all work and no play, this is a great option for gaming too. This is thanks to the Dynamic Action Sync, a feature that keeps everything responsive with minimal lag.

Pick up this monitor deal from Amazon now.

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025:

AcrossRed or white, but not blue

• The answer is Wine.

Island country whose culture inspired much of "Moana"

• The answer is Samoa.

Garlic ___ (pizzeria appetizer)

• The answer is Knots.

Small coastal waterway

• The answer is Inlet.

Protective football gear

• The answer is Pads.

Down"___ bet?"

• The answer is Wanna.

Remark after not getting a modern reference

• The answer is Im Old.

Movie studio's feedback for a director

• The answer is Notes.

3 o'clock, directionally

• The answer is East.

Button pressed to escape a YouTube ad

• The answer is Skip.

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

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

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

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

TL;DR: Unblock porn sites for free with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

Look around you — the online world is full of content restrictions and blockades.

Porn comes with a lot of restrictions, but there's really nothing wrong with adults visiting their favorite sites at entirely appropriate moments. When the time is right, you should be able to bypass content restrictions to access sites like XNXX from any network and location. And fortunately, you can do exactly that with a quick and easy hack.

If you want to unblock porn sites like XNXX from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

How to unblock XNXX for free

VPNs are useful tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This straightforward process can bypass geo-restrictions to access porn sites like XNXX from anywhere in the world.

SEE ALSO: How to unblock Pornhub for free

Unblock porn sites like XNXX by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to XNXX

4. Visit XNXX

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for bypassing content restrictions are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like XNXX without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can retain access to porn sites when temporarily away from a secure network.

If you want to retain permanent access to everything the online world has to offer, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for porn is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the best service for fast and reliable unblocking of porn sites like XNXX, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month subscription for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee.)

Unblock XNXX for free with ExpressVPN.

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 disturbance.

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

MELEE

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A vital organ.

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

HEART

Hurdle Word 3 hint

How one might describe Chicago.

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

WINDY

Hurdle Word 4 hint

There are typically 12 in a courtroom.

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

JUROR

Final Hurdle hint

Sometimes found next to a toilet.

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

BEDET

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

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

In a world where online dating and casual hookups have become the norm, dating can still feel exhausting. Sometimes, just the thought of putting on proper clothes, coming up with witty conversation starters, and commuting to the actual meetup spot can be tiring.

No matter what kind of encounter you plan, when it comes to dating, there'll always be some sort of physical effort required. The good news? There is a loophole: Sexting.

What is sexting?

Sexting is the art of sending sexually explicit photos or messages to one or more people via text. Thanks to its recent rise in popularity, there are now apps for sexting and new sexting features in apps that are otherwise for dating in person.

What do you need to know about sexting?

Whether you're interested in giving sexting a try or you're a seasoned pro, there are a few things to keep in mind when downloading and using a new dating app to sext. Sure, there are fewer inhibitions when scoring a new sexting partner when compared to finding a long-term lover, but there are rules you should follow in order for all parties to feel at ease. Here are three big ones:

• Mutual respect — Assess the situation and know your audience. Usually, it doesn't take much more than a few pre-sext texts (or pre-sexts) to gauge whether or not someone is interested in doing the cyber-dirty with you. Take the time to figure that out before you lead with something raunchy and uncalled-for. AKA, don't just start throwing dick pics at people left and right if they didn't ask.

• Mutual trust — Be respectful: Privacy is sacred. The internet has the scary ability to make fleeting moments very permanent. If someone asks you to keep something to yourself, do it. While sexting can be light and fun, it also requires a serious level of trust. If you betray that trust, you're ruining it for everybody.

• Privacy — No app can completely protect your privacy for you — that's your job. Though there are apps that have certain features that are designed to protect your identity/content, they don't rule out all scenarios. For example, someone doesn't need to take a screenshot to capture a picture you send. They could easily use another phone or device to snap or record your photos and/or videos. You should always keep this in mind before sending anything that could be compromising, and do your best to make sure you trust the person who's receiving your messages.

Keep these points in mind when engaging in NSFW messaging.

Should you engage in sexting?

Real-life dating is obviously the best way to get to know somebody long-term, especially if you're looking for any kind of serious, in-person relationship. And real sex will always be better than sexting. However, sexting is an alternative that may help you out in ways you didn't even think about.

• Convenience — Whether you plan to wine and dine on your date or just meet to hook up, it always requires some extra effort. For those with super hectic schedules or those who just don't have room in their life (for whatever reason) for a steady in-person relationship, sexting is practically a saving grace. After all, your sex drive doesn't go away just because you're busy. Sexting allows you to take care of your sexual needs without putting yourself out.

• Exploring trust and intimacy — Getting comfortable with another person in close quarters doesn’t always come naturally for everyone — but opting for sexting gives way to a new level of exploration in terms of intimacy and trust. You don’t ever have to meet the person behind the screen if you don’t want to, but being able to practice feeling vulnerable without any strings attached can be a great lesson in being more open.

• Freedom — As is the case with most behind-the-screen activities, with sexting, you can let go of your inhibitions and get comfortable exploring your sexual side. Knowing there's a certain barrier between you and the other person may allow you to experiment with language and ideas that you wouldn't otherwise explore in person.

• Fun — A little honesty, please. A night of sexting is always going to be a lot more fun than endlessly swiping right on a dating app and starting the same conversation over and over. Having the option of opening an app on your phone and engaging in a little virtual foreplay offers instant gratification and (almost) guaranteed pleasure.

• Safety — We've touched on the reasons why sexting might not be completely safe in terms of privacy, but to its credit, sexting offers an element of safety that in-person meetings don't. Sexting allows you to interact with both people you know and total strangers without putting yourself in dangerous or unwanted physical situations. Your experience should always be what you want it to be, and with sexting, if it's not going in the direction you want, it's just a matter of closing an app.

The benefits are clear for all to see, so not give it a try?

What makes an app good for sexting?

You'll want to look for certain features in an app if you're planning on sexting:

• Ease of use — You don’t want to find yourself in a hot and steamy conversation trying to figure out how to attach an image or a voice note. When it comes to sexting, the more user-friendly the platform is, the better. You’ll want something that’s efficient and fast.

• Privacy features — What happens in a sexting app doesn’t always stay in a sexting app; there are no guarantees that your conversations or selfies won’t wind up a screenshot on someone’s phone. That said, certain apps include instant self-destruction features that delete photos and conversations after a certain amount of time.

• Safety — If you’re looking for a night of no-strings-attached fun online, it doesn’t really matter if the person on the other end of your conversation has been verified — but if you do want to ensure you’re not being catfished or chatting with a bot, consider using an app that links social media or verifies users.

• Subscription pricing versus free features — How much are you willing to pay for bells and whistles? There are several free apps out there, but if you're looking for something a little fancier, you can pay a few pounds a month for premium features.

With these features in mind, you should be ready to select an app and start sexting. You've got this.

What is the best app for sexting?

Since sexting, by nature, comes with a lot of factors to consider (consent and privacy, for example), we've picked out the best sexting apps to get you off — to a good start, that is. We've tried to line up something for everyone, so check out these options, and pick your favourite.

These are the best sexting apps in 2025.