IT General

Hurdle hints and answers for April 1, 2025

Mashable - Tue, 04/01/2025 - 03:00

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 pushcart.

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

DOLLY

Hurdle Word 2 hint

What an Olympian might win.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 1, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

MEDAL

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Not flexible.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for April 1 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 1, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

STIFF

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Slightly wet.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for April 1 Hurdle Word 4 answer

MOIST

Final Hurdle hint

With enthusiasm.

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

GUSTO

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

I Used Many Cross-Platform Email Clients to Find the Best One

How-To Geek - Tue, 04/01/2025 - 00:25

There is no shortage of email clients to choose from, but I wanted one that was seamless to use across different devices and platforms. So, I tried many email clients to find the one that met my practical needs and was appealing to use. Here's what I found.

Categories: IT General, Technology

6 USB Drive Uses You're Missing Out On

How-To Geek - Tue, 04/01/2025 - 00:01

Most of us use USB drives for temporary file storage, but they can do much more. You can boot an operating system, store and encrypt passwords, automate critical data backups, and more. If you have a spare USB drive that you only use for storage, here are some other ways to make the most of it.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Quiet Revolution of Synthetic Biology

How-To Geek - Tue, 04/01/2025 - 00:00

When you hear "biology" you probably think something like "nature" or "natural", but humankind has been interfering with biology for thousands of years, and now in the 21st century our tools are more powerful than ever.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to Play a DVD on Windows (And Some Blu-ray Discs)

How-To Geek - Tue, 04/01/2025 - 00:00

Physical media, including vinyls, cassettes, and CDs are all the rage right now. If you're looking to dust off your collection of DVDs and put them to use in your Windows PC, getting them playing is quite easy. Unfortunately, Blu-rays are more complicated, but you have a few options there too.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I Never Use Windows Without Tweaking These Accessibility Features

How-To Geek - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 23:59

Many Windows users believe accessibility features are only for those with disabilities, but that’s not the case. I don't have a disability, but I use some accessibility features to be more productive. I can’t imagine using Windows without them. Here are some features you should try.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are the most comfortable headphones we tested — and theyre $100 off

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 23:54

Save $100: Grab the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones on sale for $329 at Amazon, down from their list price of $429. This 23% discount is live as of March 31, the last day of Amazon's Big Spring Sale.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones $329 at Amazon
$429 Save $100 Get Deal

When Bose named their QuietComfort line, they hit the nail right on the head.

In that line is the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones, which have been deemed the most comfortable headphones by not one, not two, but three separate reporters from the Mashable shopping team. And as of March 31, the last day of the Big Spring Sale, Amazon marked them down to $329, dropping their price even further from the $80 price cut we spotted earlier in the sale.

SEE ALSO: 300+ of the best deals from the final day of Amazon's Big Spring Sale

I personally tested the Bose QC Ultra headphones in the fall of 2023, shortly after they hit the market. I put them through the ringer in testing their comfort — I left them on for entire work days, wore them with earrings, and even on a cross country flight while wearing glasses. In every situation, they felt cushioned and sturdy, but not too heavy. As Lead Shopping Reporter Dylan Haas put it, "A lot of headphones advertise 'all-day comfort' as a feature, but rarely is that literally true." Like me, he was able to use them for an entire day without any soreness.

With that said, they're not perfect. While their noise cancelling is good (it is Bose, after all), Shopping Reporter Sam Mangino wasn't totally impressed, writing in her review, "while the noise cancellation is really good at blocking out low-pitched noises, it can't wholly block high-pitched sounds unless you turn up the sound to unhealthy volumes." She also felt that the sound quality didn't stand out among other premium options.

I also found that their multipoint pairing could be inconsistent at times, but that's an issue I've experienced across the board with Bose. While annoying, issues like that are easier to overlook when you're not paying full price. If you are looking to get these headphones at the absolute lowest price ever, you might want to pass this time — we've seen them drop down to $299 in the past.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Owala FreeSip is finally on sale during the Amazon Big Spring Sale

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 23:24

SAVE 15%: As of March 31, shop the Owala FreeSip water bottle for 15% off. Down from its usual $34.99, get it for $29.60, saving you $5.39.

Opens in a new window Credit: Owala Owala FreeSip 32 oz. water bottle $29.60 at Amazon
$34.99 Save $5.39 Get Deal

Based on the speed and velocity with which the Stanley Quencher entered our culture, I never thought something could dethrone it as the 'It Girl' of water bottles. But enter the Owala FreeSip. More traditional in its water bottle design, it comes in flashy colors and has an innovative lid design that sets it apart from the Stanley or Hydro Flasks.

With a two-part design, you can sip or chug from the mouth of the Owala, depending on your hydration needs. The lids feature a two-part lock. The first covers the mouthpiece, while the second prevents you from accidentally hitting the release button. As an Owala user myself, I love the lock design because I can toss it in my bag without fear of spillage. Plus, the second lock can also double as a carry loop for easy toting around.

Beyond all its special features, it's also just a great insulated water bottle. It keeps cold beverages chilly for up to 24 hours. When I fill my water bottle up before bed, it's still perfectly cold by the time I wake up.

Right now, you can find the Owala FreeSip for just $29.60. That saves you $5.39 for 15% off during Amazon's Big Spring Sale. Make sure to grab it before the deals wrap up.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This Mashable-approved Bose soundbar is at its lowest price ever during the Amazon Big Spring Sale

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 23:18

SAVE $100: As of March 31, save $100 on the Bose Smart Soundbar. It's down to $399 from its usual $499, giving you 20% in savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose Smart Soundbar $399 at Amazon
$499 Save $100 Get Deal

In his review of the Bose Smart Soundbar, Mashable's Timothy Beck Werth asked the question, is the Bose Smart Soundbar worth its $500 price tag? It's a well-rounded device with easy set-up and speakers that really deliver. And as Amazon's Big Spring Sale winds down, it's some of the best savings we spotted.

Normally $499, the Bose Smart Soundbar is 20% off. That knocks $100 off the price bringing it down to $399 — its lowest price ever.

$400 is still a lot to invest in a soundbar, so what can this speaker actually do? Compared to your TV's built-in speakers, the Bose soundbar projects elevated sound that's backed with Dolby Atmos. Sound is deep and well-balanced, coming from the soundbar's five transducers and central tweeter. Plus, real audio nerds can use the Bose Ultra Open earbuds (which are also on sale right now) with the soundbar to create a next-level surround sound experience. It's also loaded with smart features like A.I. Dialogue Mode for better listening experiences.

Shop the Bose Smart Soundbar before the Big Spring Sale comes to a close.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Who’s Got the Best Legs? Which Humanoid Robots Have Mastered Walking?

How-To Geek - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 23:15

Human evolution is basically a time-lapse of us learning to walk better. First, we started on all fours, then we figured out how to balance on two legs, and eventually, we strutted our way to dominance. The same thing is happening with humanoid robots right now—except while some can move as well as we can, others are a bit further down the evolutionary tree.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Anker earbuds are 50% off on Amazon — but not for much longer

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 23:06

GET 50% OFF: As of March 31, Soundcore Anker P20i Earbuds are on sale at Amazon's Big Spring Sale for $19.99, saving you 50%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Soundcore Anker P20i Earbuds $19.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

If you need a new set of headphones, now is the moment to pounce, with Amazon's Big Spring Sale in full swing.

For a limited time get Soundcore Anker P20i Earbuds for $19.99, netting you a cool 50% off.

SEE ALSO: I found Bang & Olufsen noise-canceling headphones for under $800 in Amazon’s Spring Sale

Whether you're into podcasts or music, these wireless buds will provide bassy sound you can personalize to your taste using the app. Take them on a stroll or use them to enjoy music that your housemates can't abide.

A charging case ensures you get extra battery time. The earbuds already provide up to 10 hours per charge. But lodge them in the case for even more battery — up to 30 hours.

For a limited time, the Soundcore Anker P20i Earbuds are on sale for $19.99 at Amazon's Big Spring Sale. That's 50% off and a deal that's not likely to stick around for very long.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Eufy robot vacuum that turns into a stick vac is on sale for the first time — get it for $400

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 23:00

SAVE $200: As of March 31, the Eufy E20 3-in-1 robot vacuum, cordless stick vacuum, and handheld vacuum is on sale for the first time since its debut at CES 2025. Get it for $399.99 — a 33% savings.

Eufy E20 $399.99 at Amazon
$599.99 Save $200 Get Deal

Amazon's Big Spring Sale has brought us the first discount on a major CES 2025 robot vacuum.

Coincidentally, the Eufy E20 is not only one of the best robot vacuum deals from the sale but also one of the best stick vacuum deals. Yep, you read that right: It's a 3-in-1 robot vacuum that can transform into a cordless stick vacuum (as well as a handheld). If you were having trouble choosing between a robot vac or an upright stick vac, this makes it easy — especially at just $399.99.

In either mode, the Eufy E20 is a pretty powerful cleaner for the price. In robot form, the 8,000 Pa of suction power matches that of the Eufy X10 Pro Omni that I loved last year. In stick form, that bumps up to 30,000 Pa, beating even the most powerful robot vacuums of the year by another 8,000 Pa (the Roborock Saros 10 cleans with 22,000 Pa).

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

The E20 robot vacuum does not have the small obstacle avoidance technology necessary to detect obstacles under 15 millimeters, such as cords or pet waste, but it does still have LiDAR-powered smart mapping to clean specific rooms. Compared to something like the $899.99 (or $549.99 on sale) Eufy X10 Pro Omni, you're kind of just trading true small obstacle avoidance for a different type of vacuum brainpower: the option for an actual human being to operate the vacuum. That freedom will undoubtedly come in handy for sweeping things like furniture, car interiors, staircases, and other tight squeezes where a robot vacuum just doesn't make sense.

Once you find a small sliver of closet or under-bed space to store the stick extender, the motorized part where your hand goes in simply clicks into and lays flush with the robot vacuum.

Categories: IT General, Technology

300+ of the best deals from the final day of Amazons Big Spring Sale

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 23:00
The best Amazon Big Spring Sale deals at a glance: Best Kindle deal Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (32GB) $224.99 (save $55) Get Deal Best Apple deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $949 (save $50) Get Deal Best headphones/earbuds deal Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones $329 (save $100) Get Deal Best robot vacuum deal Roborock Qrevo Master $799.99 (save $600) Get Deal Best smart home deal WiZ 60W A19 Color LED Smart Bulbs (3-pack) $17.49 (save $7.50) Get Deal Best kitchen deal Vitamix Propel 510 $347.95 (save $152) Get Deal Best outdoor deal Coleman Montana Camping Tent (8-person) $149.76 (save $120.23) Get Deal Best book deal "Sunrise on the Reaping" by Suzanne Collins $19.59 (save $8.49) Get Deal

Amazon has sprung a bunch of seasonal deals on shoppers, but they won't be around for much longer. The retail giant's weeklong Big Spring Sale is live through the end of the day on Monday, March 31, ushering in discounts on "end-of-season winter items" and "springtime favorites" across more than 35 categories, per its press release.

The Big Spring Sale is Amazon's first major savings event of the year, and unlike its flagship summer Prime Day sale, the deals haven't been exclusive to Prime members. Most of them, anyway: Prime members get access to a handful of special offers, which are identified with a "Prime Spring Deal" badge.

SEE ALSO: When does Amazon's Big Spring Sale end?

Need help sifting through the noise? Mashable's shopping experts are still keeping track of the best deals available on Amazon during as the Big Spring Sale, even as it winds down. (Our sister site CNET has extensive coverage of Amazon's Big Spring Sale, too.) With eight years of experience covering Amazon's sales under our belts, we've developed a tried-and-true deal-hunting methodology to find hidden gems among the retailer's myriad listings. We cross-check prices with Amazon's competitors, track pricing trends, and vet products' value based on our hands-on testing, and we only recommend what's most worth buying. You can read more about our deals coverage here.

Read on for our running list of Amazon's best Big Spring Sale deals on smart home devices, Apple gadgets, robot vacuums, outdoor gear, kitchen appliances, books, and much more. They're only scheduled to be live until 11:59 p.m. ET on March 31, so don't dawdle.

Best Kindle dealsBundlesBest Apple dealsAirPodsApple Watches

Apple Watch Series 10

iPads

iPad

iPad Air

MacBooks

MacBook Air

MacBook Pro

Apple accessoriesBest TV deals43-inch to 50-inch TVs55-inch TVs65-inch TVs75-inch and 77-inch TVs85-inch TVs and upProjectorsBest laptop deals

For deals on MacBooks, scroll back up to the "Apple deals" section.

2-in-1 laptopsGaming laptopsBest tablet deals

For deals on iPads, scroll back up to the "Apple deals" section.

Amazon Fire tabletsAndroid tabletsBest headphone and earbud dealsHeadphonesBest earbuds dealsBest unlocked phone deals Samsung Galaxy phonesMotorola phonesBest vacuum dealsRobot vacuumsRobot vacuum mop combosStick vacuumsBest home dealsAir purifiersBeddingRugsEcho smart home devicesHome security equipmentSmart alarm clocksSmart bulbsSmart light switchesSmart plugsBest cleaning supplies dealsBest kitchen dealsAir fryers and countertop ovensBlenders and food processorsCoffee makers and espresso machinesDrinkwareInstant Pots and multi-cookersBest fitness tracker dealsBest beauty tech dealsHair dryersHot toolsMulti-stylersBest pet dealsAutomatic litter boxesAutomatic pet feedersBest outdoor dealsBest power tool dealsBest gaming dealsPlayStation gamesPlayStation hardware

Headsets

Accessories

Xbox gamesXbox hardware

Consoles

Controllers

Headsets

Nintendo Switch gamesNintendo Switch hardware

Controllers and accessories

Memory cards

Best Lego dealsBest book dealsFictionNon-fictionBest Pokémon dealsBest digital deals
  • Amazon Music Unlimited — get your first three months free (save $11.99/month or $10.99/month with Prime)

  • Grubhub — save $5 on two $20+ food orders with $0 delivery fees with code HOOP5

  • Starz — add it to Prime Video for $1.99/month for three months (save $9/month)

Categories: IT General, Technology

Spider-Man Lego sets on sale at Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 22:58

GET UP TO $46 OFF: As of March 31st, save up to $46 with these Spider-Man Lego set deals from Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy.

The best Spider Man Lego set deals during the Big Spring Sale Best Spider Man Lego set Lego Marvel Spider-Man Final Battle Building Toy Set $92.98 (Save $17.01) Get Deal Best small Spider Man Lego set Lego Marvel Iron Spider Man Construction Figure $24.33 (Save $5.66) Get Deal Best large Spider Man Lego set Lego Marvel Spider-Man Daily Bugle 76178 Building Kit $303.99 (Save $45.96) Get Deal Best Spider-Verse Lego set Marvel Spider-Verse Miles Morales vs. The Spot Building Toy Set $42.49 (Save $7.50) Get Deal

Spider-Man Lego sets are in right now, and Amazon's Big Spring Sale is right on time. But that's not the only retailer with great Lego deals.

Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy are all offering deals on Spider-Man Lego sets, including the Lego Marvel Spider-Verse Miles Morales vs. The Spot Building Toy Set, which is on sale for $42.49 at Amazon for a savings of 15%.

Spider-Man is about as iconic as a superhero can get and these Spider-Man Lego sets will help you swing into Spider-Verses old and new, with building sets for Miles Morales, Iron Spider-Man, and the Daily Bugle.

Here are our favorite Spider-Man Lego sets on sale right now.

Best Spider-Man Lego set Opens in a new window Credit: Lego / Marvel Lego Marvel Spider-Man Final Battle Building Toy Set $92.98 at Walmart
$109.99 Save $17.01 Get Deal Why we like it

The Lego Marvel Spider-Man Final Battle Building Toy Set is a perfect Spider-Man Lego set for display, with multiple iterations of Spider-Man, looping around the head of the Statue of Liberty. This deal includes 900 pieces and 9 figurines.

SEE ALSO: The Amazon Spring Sale has great deals on Minecraft Lego sets Best small Spider-Man Lego set Opens in a new window Credit: Lego / Marvel Lego Marvel Iron Spider-Man Construction Figure $24.33 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $5.66 Get Deal Why we like it

What if Spider-Man could hit even harder? Chances are if he were made out of metal he would. The Lego Marvel Iron Spider-Man Construction Figure imagines just this and it's on sale for $24.33, saving you $5.66.

Best large Spider-Man Lego set Opens in a new window Credit: Lego / Marvel Lego Marvel Spider-Man Daily Bugle 76178 Building Kit $303.99 at Best Buy
$349.95 Save $45.96 Get Deal Why we like it

Spidey fans who want to get as far into the Spider-Verse as possible will get a kick out of the huge Daily Bugle building set, which features 3,772 pieces.

Best Spider-Verse Lego set Opens in a new window Credit: Lego / Marvel Marvel Spider-Verse Miles Morales vs. The Spot Building Toy Set $42.49 at Best Buy
$49.99 Save $7.50 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're looking for an action-packed building experience, then look no further. The Marvel Spider-Verse Miles Morales vs. The Spot Building Toy Set takes you right into the Spider-Verse with figurines, a police car, station, and billowing web.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Best Apple deals from Amazons Big Spring Sale: Last chance to get MacBooks, iPads, and Apple Watches at lowest-ever prices

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 22:40
The best Apple deals from Amazon's Big Spring Sale Best MacBook deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $949 (Save $50) Get Deal Best AirPods deal Apple AirPods Pro $169.99 (Save $79.01) Get Deal Best iPad deal Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WiFi, 128GB) $549 (Save $50) Get Deal Best Apple Watch deal Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm) $329 (Save $70) Get Deal

If you're looking for discounted Apple products, Amazon is a reliable place to grab them year-round.

However, during its Big Spring Sale, running from March 25 to 31, we're keeping our eyes peeled as even more deals go live. While the sale focuses primarily on "springtime favorites" like outdoor furniture and garden supplies, last year's inaugural BSS did bring some tech deals. Best of all, exempting a few exclusive offers, most deals are available to all customers, regardless of their Prime membership status.

SEE ALSO: 15+ robot vacuums on sale ahead of Amazon's Big Spring Sale

Throughout the sale, we've spotted deals on new releases like the M3 iPad Air, 11-inch iPad, and M4 MacBook Airs. In addition to iPads, we also found a $400 markdown on the M3 13-inch MacBook Air and $170 price cut on the Beats Studio Pro. Again, while these deals aren't officially tied to the spring sale and can be found at other times of the year, these are still solid prices for any of these items.

Note: Deals with a 🔥 next to them have dropped to record-low prices.

Best MacBook deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) 🔥 $949 at Amazon
$999 Save $50 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the M4 MacBook Air.

Apple just dropped the M4 MacBook Air, and even at full price, we think it's a really good deal. In a divergence from last year's Air pricing, Apple started its 13-inch model at just $999 — with an M4 chip and the RAM upgrades Apple gave all its laptops last fall, this is the best value we've ever seen on an Apple laptop. Amazon slashed another $50 off the price, which, while admittedly not a jaw-dropping discount, helps make a great value even better. The biggest downside to this laptop is that it might be a little short on ports for some users, and then it tops out at a 60Hz refresh rate, but if you can work with that, the M4 Air is an excellent deal.

More MacBook and Mac dealsMacBook AirMacBook ProMacBest AirPods deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro $169.99 at Amazon
$249 Save $79.01 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the AirPods Pro.

For Apple users, the AirPods Pro are an excellent pair of noise-cancelling earbuds, with some of the best noise cancellation and sound quality in the game. As the USB-C Pros near their second year anniversary, we can't say they're without a doubt the best on the market — their battery life could be better, for instance — but their age works in their favor for this price drop down to $169.99, which certainly makes some of their flaws easier to look past. We have seen these earbuds drop to $154 during Black Friday season, but we haven't seen that deal return since, making $170 the next best deal to grab them at.

More AirPods dealsBest iPad deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WiFi, 128GB)🔥 $549 at Amazon
$599 Save $50 Get Deal Why we like it

The M3 iPad Air just hit the market earlier this month, but you can already grab it for $50 off. At the time of writing, the previous generation Air costs even more on Amazon at $599 (though you can grab it on sale for $499 at Best Buy). Beyond the chip upgrade, this iPad features plenty of Apple Intelligence integration, from the Photos and Notes apps, to the Writing Tools feature that uses ChatGPT. Though we've yet to test this tablet hands-on for ourselves, the M2 Air is our favorite iPad for most people — we imagine the M3 Air will follow suit.

More iPad dealsiPadiPad AiriPad miniBest Apple Watch deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm)🔥 $329 at Amazon
$399 Save $70 Get Deal Why we like it

Check out our full review of the Apple Watch Series 10.

The Apple Watch Series 10 only came out this past fall, making this $70-off deal especially impressive. Along with its larger wide-angle OLED display, Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder found this smartwatch to be lighter than its predecessors, with an ultra-fast charge time. This watch generation introduced fitness features like a depth gauge, sleep apnea detection, and a Vitals app, but it's worth noting those features aren't exclusive to the Series 10. However, if your Series 6 has been on the fritz for a while, or you've never owned an Apple Watch, $329 is a solid price to grab Apple's latest smartwatch.

More Apple Watch dealsEven more Apple deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

How I Brought a Cassette Deck Back to Life

How-To Geek - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 22:15

Craving the analog sound of cassette tapes? So was I, and I managed to get a vintage deck on the cheap that wasn't working—until I made some simple repairs. The problems I ran into are common, so I'm recording them here so you can be prepared if you get one.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The priciest Roomba and Shark robot vacuum mop combos are both under $800 on the last day of Amazons spring sale

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 22:13
The Shark and Roomba flagship models on sale Premium Roomba robot vacuum and mop deal iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max + AutoWash Dock $799 at Amazon (save $600) Get Deal Premium Shark robot vacuum and mop deal Shark PowerDetect NeverTouch Pro $799.99 at Amazon (save $400) Get Deal

The other top robot vacuum brands can release as many models as they want, but the "Shark vs. Roomba" debate isn't leaving the Google search bar anytime soon.

There's always an even bigger spotlight on the feud when comparing their deals during various sale events, and the last day of Amazon's Big Spring Sale is seeing a big showdown between Shark and iRobot's two most expensive robot vacuum and mop combos: The Shark PowerDetect NeverTouch Pro and iRobot Roomba Combo Max + AutoWash Dock are both down from their over-$1,000 prices to $799.99 ($799 for the Roomba, so you'd technically be saving almost a dollar extra).

SEE ALSO: Robot vacuum deals are going hard at Amazon's Big Spring Sale

Both can wash and dry their own mopping pads whereas the models right below each in the family tree, the Roomba Combo j9+ and Shark PowerDetect NeverTouch (no Pro) only refill their water tanks, but need you to throw the pads in the washing machine. The self-washing situation is definitely worth the upgrade in my eyes.

I've tested both of them, and have some intel as to who should pick the Shark and who should pick the Roomba. (Though if you're going to spend that much on a robot vacuum during this sale, I'd ultimately tell you to buy the Roborock Qrevo Master that's also on sale for $799.99 — it was my favorite robot vacuum from all of 2024.)

iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max + AutoWash Dock $799 at Amazon
$1,399 Save $600 Get Deal Why we like it

If you care more about meticulous small obstacle avoidance, go with the Roomba Combo 10 Max. iRobot's PrecisionVision technology consistently has the best track record when it comes to dodging things like chargers, extension cords, socks, and towels in my home. And personally, this level of self-sufficiency has become a non-negotiable for me — it's just nice to be able to start a cleaning whenever without worrying that the robot vac will suck up a random object and get stuck for hours.

After the unveiling of the $799.99 Roomba Plus 405 and $999.99 505 Combo models earlier in March, the Combo 10 Max is no longer the only Roomba vacuum and mop that can wash and dry its own mopping pads. Compared to those models, aside from a total design overhaul, the main difference is that the Combo 10 Max still retains the auto-lifting mopping arm that iRobot was trying to push (compared to spinning mopping pads on the other two).

But with the $999.99 Roomba Plus 505's release being pushed back to April, the Combo 10 Max is currently the only Roomba out there that can deal with its own mop, refill its own tanks, and avoid cords, laundry, and pet waste. And $799.99 is the cheapest it has ever been, Black Friday 2024 included.

The Combo 10 Max doesn't come in white and the Shark PowerDetect does, and maybe your decision will boil down to which color better matches your decor. But I'll say that, aesthetically, the Combo 10 Max looks much chicer in person. If you'd like to mitigate the risk of a giant hunk of technology ruining your cozy aesthetic, the Roomba is the choice here.

Shark PowerDetect NeverTouch Pro Shark PowerDetect NeverTouch Pro $799.99 at Amazon
$1,199.99 Save $400 Get Deal Why we like it

If you care more about quick, straightforward spot cleaning, go with the Shark PowerDetect Pro. As basic as it is, there's something to be said about how easy the Shark app makes the spontaneous cleaning process. All you have to do is drag and drop a square in the room you want the PowerDetect to clean, compared to the iRobot app, which makes you take the extra step of naming an official zone before cleaning (even if it'll be a one-time thing).

The PowerDetect's small obstacle avoidance situation isn't so streamlined — Shark hasn't perfected that technology yet. So while it can totally be relied on to make it to the right room while navigating around furniture, I'd still pick phone chargers off the floor and scoot slippers and shoes to the edges of the room.

Cleaning performance-wise, the PowerDetect is the most powerful Shark vacuum and mop. Like iRobot, Shark doesn't disclose suction power in Pascals, but the PowerDetect was quite reliable on various rugs in my home, and actually did a better job at picking up kitty litter and food crumbs around wall or cabinet edges than the Combo 10 Max did.

If it sways your decision at all, Shark does more to nail the "just cleaned" scent to go with your sparkling floors. The dock is equipped with a filter (I think it smells like laundry) that puffs after each auto-empty whoosh to combat any potential dust bag smell. A bottle of hard floor cleaning solution is also included.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Yahoos Vidya Nayak wants more women in tech

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 22:07

Vidya Nayak, Head of Product Design at Yahoo Search, is aware it’s not easy to be a visible female tech executive. She also knows talking about her experiences as a woman in the industry makes a difference.

“Sharing my own stories honestly and authentically encourages other women in the room to come forward and share theirs,” Nayak tells Mashable. “This creates a sense of community and solidarity where women feel seen, heard, and empowered to navigate their day-to-day boldly.”

Nayak has a big job at Yahoo, which ranks as the U.S.’s second most-visited website. Nayak was a major part of the team that recently introduced an AI chatbot and AI-powered summaries within Yahoo search. Logged-in users can take advantage of the new offerings, which mark a big step for the 31-year-old company’s effort to regain a bigger presence in Search after being swamped by Google over 20 years ago.

“We’re definitely taking a more forward-looking approach to how Yahoo search evolves with the conversational interface and even the AI summaries,” Nayak says. “We’re creating an experience that helps users make decisions faster, be more productive, and, in the end, [have search be] more intuitive for them.”

SEE ALSO: The end of remote work doesn't work for women

Before joining Yahoo in 2023, the graduate of San Francisco's Academy of Art University held leadership roles at Disney Interactive, Rodale, iWin, and News Corp., where she led the launch of the first mobile apps for Fox News and Fox Business. At her most recent pre-Yahoo position, Nayak served as Design Director for bank giant SoFi, streamlining the company's apps and helping guide overall corporate strategy. Nayak is candid about what that view from the top looked like.

"I wouldn’t say I’m the only woman in the room [at these companies], but, yes, it is definitely male-dominated," the mother of two says. "Tech has significantly made strides, but globally it still remains male-dominated. Things are shifting, however, very slowly. Tech companies are slowly recognizing the value female leaders bring to the organization, so you see a lot more women at the C Level and in leadership roles and manager roles."

Vidya Nayak credits female mentors for helping her succeed in the industry. Credit: Yahoo

Nayak encourages companies to continue to invest in mentoring women through in-company programs and internships.

"We must create opportunities to develop technical and soft skills with clear progression paths [and] actionable feedback that will help women then take those steps forward," she says. "I think mentorship and critical role model functions are key to opening doors and more opportunities for women."

Even though this presidential administration has painted diversity as a bad word, especially on the collegiate level, bringing girls and women to the forefront would appear to make good business sense for the entire industry. A product created with the input of different minds and experiences will appeal to a larger cross-section of customers, believes Nayak.

"It’s important to recognize this [gender] gap exists at all levels, but particularly the education level," Nayak says. "That needs to change. More men are often encouraged to pursue STEM programs and enter the tech space. Right from the get-go, at the foundational levels, if we make those changes, women will feel more welcome [in the industry]."

SEE ALSO: The best movies made by women on Disney+

Nayak believes in opening doors of opportunity behind her, especially since many were opened for her.

"I was very fortunate to have strong female role models early in my career when I just started working and during my graduate school days," she says. "They inspired me and showed me I could achieve anything and [helped me] navigate these challenges that women face. Learning from the best is crucial."

Networking and "building a community of women" is mutually beneficial for all women in the industry, Nayak says.

"It’s also important to celebrate each other’s accomplishments," she adds. "I remember a quote from Chelsea Handler: 'I never blew out someone’s candle to make mine brighter.' We need to be each other’s cheerleaders."

Categories: IT General, Technology

A New Version of CachyOS Has Arrived: Here's What's New

How-To Geek - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 21:51

CachyOS, the Arch-based Linux distribution that's been getting a lot of attention from Linux gamers has an updated "March 2025" ISO available for download. It comes with a new Linux kernel and a bevy of other improvements.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I blow dry my hair every day with the Shark FlexStyle. Its on sale during Amazons Big Spring Sale.

Mashable - Mon, 03/31/2025 - 21:44

SAVE $60: As of March 31, shop the Shark Flexstyle for just $239, giving you $60 off for 20% savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark FlexStyle $239 at Amazon
$299 Save $60 Get Deal

Historically, I haven't paid much attention to my hair. For a long time, I used the Revlon One-Step as a quick way to blow out my hair at home. It was fine but sometimes smelled like a toaster burning the ends of my hair. So as I started gearing up for my 2025 nuptials, with the ambitious goal of doing my own hair and makeup, I started to take my hair a bit more seriously. That's why at the recommendation of my Mashable colleagues, I sprung for the Shark FlexStyle during Black Friday 2024.

My favorite type of deal to write about is one that I've purchased myself, which is why I'm stoked to see the Shark FlexStyle marked down during Amazon's Big Spring Sale. Right now, you can find this multi-styler and hair dryer for $239. That saves you $60.99 for 20% off. Sure, we've seen some better discounts on the FlexStyle, but right now, it's only $20 short of its lowest price ever.

In the months since procuring the Shark FlexStyle, I've had fun playing around with the attachments, trying to perfect my own styling. While it can be a little awkward adjusting to the shape and style of the FlexStyle from a traditional blow dryer, it's ultimately incredibly easy to use. It's foolproof and much easier to use than a blow dryer and brush combo, making it a great product for hair styling novices like myself. I don't consider myself to be a natural hair stylist, but the oval brush helps create sleek styles with lots of volume. After using it, I'm left with sleek, shiny layers. Plus, I'm usually styled and ready to go in under 15 minutes with the FlexStyle.

While this model comes with a starter set of attachments, Shark has a slew of attachments that you can purchase for your hair needs, whether that be a diffuser for curls or the FrizzFighter to fight flyaways. You can read my colleague's full rundown of the the Shark FlexStyle or her comparison of the device to the Dyson Airwrap, for more in-depth details, but the TL;DR is: Jump on this Shark FlexStyle deal before the Big Spring Sale ends.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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