IT General

Whats new to streaming this week? (March 7, 2025)

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 12:00

Looking for something great to watch at home? Streaming subscribers are spoiled for choice between Hulu, Netflix, 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 one!

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, animation, and more.

But if you're seeking something brand spanking new (or new to streaming), we've got you covered there, too.

SEE ALSO: The best Netflix TV shows of 2024

Mashable's entertainment team has scoured the streaming services to highlight the most buzzed-about releases of this week and ranked them from worst to best — or least worth your time to most watchable. Whether you're looking for some superhero drama, rip-roaring comedy, or soul-rattling horror, we've got something just for you.

Here's what's new on streaming, from worst to best.

10. Plankton: The Movie

Can't get enough of SpongeBob SquarePants? Good news, then: Netflix is offering another spinoff movie in spongey, three-dimensional CG.

As the title declares, Plankton: The Movie centers on the teeny, nefarious antagonist of Mr. Krabs. After 25 years of Plankton's failed plans — and poor listening skills — his computer wife Karen is fed up! She's going to do what he never could: World Domination. To stop her, this green grouch will have to team up with Bikini Bottom's best fry cook and his friends to save the day. What could go wrong?! — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

Starring: Mr. Lawrence, Jill Talley, Tom Kenny, Bill Fagerbakke, Carolyn Lawrence, Clancy Brown, and Rodger Bumpass

How to watch: Plankton: The Movie is debuts on Netflix on March 7.

9. With Love, Meghan

Produced by the Duchess of Sussex herself with Netflix, With Love, Meghan is essentially a DIY tips show for people who love watching TikTok videos about hosting dinner parties — without any intention of actually hosting one. By people, I mean me. Over eight episodes, Meghan shares various kitchen and home tricks for you to either actually try or remain aspirational about. Shot at a lovely estate in Montecito, California (not Meghan and Harry's actual house), the show sees Meghan's friends — including Mindy Kaling, Roy Choi, and Alice Waters — stop by for chats about her career and life.

In my review for Mashable, I wrote, "Look, With Love, Meghan will not be everyone's show. If it's not yours, you can watch something else. But for people who feel empathetically tired for the Duchess of Sussex, enjoy watching one of the most vilified women on the planet find personal happiness and empowerment, and regularly binge-watch TikTok videos about hosting guests that you'll probably never actually implement yourself, this show is for you." — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

Starring: Meghan Markle, Mindy Kaling, Roy Choi, Alice Walters, Daniel Martin

How to watch: With Love, Meghan is now streaming on Netflix.

8. Picture This

Simon Ashley first captured our hearts as Kathani "Kate" Sharma, the fiery "old maid" of Bridgerton Season 2. Now, she's taking the lead in a modern rom-com about that dives into the culture clash of British-Indian women in the UK. But there's still shades of Austen's marriage market!

Recovering from the breakup of her first love, aspiring photographer Pia (Ashley) is building her professional life. However, as her younger sister readies to wed, their mother's focus shifts to getting Pia hitched fast. Adding more pressure, a cheery guru insists that Pia is destined to meet her one-and-only in one of her next five dates. so who will it be? Full of energy, but lacking the wit of British rom-coms like Bridgerton, Bridget Jones, or anything Richard Curtis-created, Picture This has its moments, but falls far short of being a diamond. — K.P.

Starring: Simone Ashley, Anoushka Chadha, Hero Fiennes Tiffin, and Luke Fetherston

How to watch: Picture This premieres on Prime Video on March 6.

7. Rumours

Seeking something bizarre and cerebral? Then you won't want to miss this trippy comedy from directors Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson, and Galen Johnson.

Set at the G7 summit, where the leaders of first world nations gather to discuss the world's greatest problems, a motley crew of politicians fumble for words as they encounter an uncanny opposition. Bog bodies, a giant brain in the woods, and an inexplicable crisis demand these people in power swallow their own issues (like so much wine) and concoct a plan. But what follows is less CSPAN and much more Tales from the Crypt.

In my review out of the Toronto International Film Festival, I wrote of Rumours, "This surreally strange satire is a terrifically wild ride, fueled by the game performances from a charismatic cast and the deranged creatures into which they collide. Simply put, Rumours is a bonkers blast." — K.P.

Starring: Cate Blanchett, Charles Dance, Roy Dupuis, Denis Ménochet, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Rolando Ravello, Takehiro Hira, Zlatko Burić, and Alicia Vikander

How to watch: Rumours is now streaming on Paramount+.

6. Deli Boys

Deli Boys centers on pampered Pakistani American brothers Raj (Saagar Shaikh) and Mir (Asif Ali), who get the shock of a lifetime when they learn their recently deceased father wasn't just a convenience store mogul — he was also a criminal mastermind. Now, having lost everything, Raj and Mir must process their father's double life and take up his mantle. Their survival depends on it.

Deli Boys' criminal hijinks are an absolute blast, but it's the familial relationship between Raj, Mir, and the badass Lucky Auntie (Poorna Jagannathan) that really makes this comedy tick. Mir's uptightness contrasts nicely with Raj's laidback stoner energy, and it's a delight to watch Lucky putting them in their place time and again. If you've seen Jagannathan crush it as Devi's mother Nalini in Never Have I Ever, get ready to appreciate a new, ruthlessly fun turn from her. — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

Starring: Asif Ali, Saagar Shaikh, Poorna Jagannathan, Alfie Fuller, and Brian George

How to watch: Deli Boys is now streaming on Hulu.

5. How to Have Sex

Molly Manning Walker's directorial debut is not an easy watch, but it's worth it. A frank, authentic, and superbly performed film about consent and the sexual knowledge gap affecting young people, How to Have Sex blew film festival audiences away. Teens Tara (Mia McKenna-Bruce), Em (Enva Lewis), and Skye (Lara Peake) head to the coastal town of Malia, Greece, for a week of partying after finishing high school, and the pressure is sky-high for the girls to have their first sexual experiences. The film navigates these experiences with respect and honesty, and an extraordinary performance by McKenna-Bruce leaves a lasting impact.

As I wrote in my review, "How to Have Sex isn't the first teen film to examine these experiences of sexual assault and consent by any means, but Walker brings a brutal honesty and frankness that sets the film apart. Through superb scripting and performances, the film acknowledges how male violence is normalised or brushed aside..." — S.C.

Starring: Mia McKenna-Bruce, Lara Peake, Samuel Bottomley, Shaun Thomas, Enva Lewis, and Laura Ambler

How to watch: How to Have Sex is now streaming on Netflix.

4. Heretic

Released in 2024, Heretic is a thrilling foray into talkative horror from writer-directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods (A Quiet Place, 65).

Hugh Grant stars as Mr. Reed, a man who's trapped two young Mormon missionaries (Yellowjackets' Sophie Thatcher and The Fabelmans' Chloe East) in his tricked-out house of horrors. He claims that all he wants is a spirited debate about theology, but his methods — like the aforementioned trapping of women — leave much to be desired. Heretic's religious talking points can be a tad surface level, but Grant still sells the hell out them with a performance that takes the charm of any of his famed rom-com roles and flips it on its head. We may never watch Notting Hill the same way again.*B.E.

Starring: Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, and Chloe East

How to watch: Heretic comes to Max on March 7.

SEE ALSO: The 22 best horror movies of 2024, and where to watch them 3. The Gutter

Need a laugh? Look to The Gutter, a sensationally funny sports comedy from brothers Isaiah Lester and Yassir Lester.

Shameik Moore stars as an underdog who's looking to make his mark in the pro-bowling lane with the help of a drunken mentor (D'Arcy Carden). But to be a champion, he'll need to best a ruthless legend played by Susan Sarandon. In my review of The Gutter out of SXSW 2024, I praised the film for being "the right kind of dumb," cheering, "I can't remember the last time a comedy this stupid was so smart in its jokes. The Gutter is the kind of comedy that ...doesn't play it safe. Sure, not every joke lands and some do spark gasps alongside giggles. But the Lesters have strategically stuffed in so many goofy gags and such cleverly cast comedic performers that from the first frame to the last, The Gutter is a winner." — K.P.

Starring: Shameik Moore, D'Arcy Carden, Paul Reiser, and Susan Sarandon

How to watch: The Gutter is now streaming on Hulu.

2. Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror Max Schreck stars as Nosferatu in the 1922 silent movie directed by Friedrich Wilhelm Murnau. Credit: Photo by ullstein bild / ullstein bild via Getty Images

Shudder is a streaming platform dedicated to horror in all forms. And in March, the subscription service is offering two of the most influential horror movies ever made: The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari and Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror.

If you went feral for Robert Eggers' 2024 re-imagining of Nosferatu, you'll want to see the 1922 film that inspired it. (Admittedly by recklessly ripping off Dracula so hard Bram Stoker's widow almost lawsuited it out of print, but bygones!)

SEE ALSO: Willem Dafoe and Robert Eggers reveal their inspirations for 'Nosferatu'. It goes deeper than you may think.

Artistic theft aside, F. W. Murnau made the vampire his own with this silent film, which boasts an unforgettable German Expressionism aesthetic of slinking shadows and Max Schreck as the iconic long-clawed fiend. See the century-old film that spawned a subgenre that's still got bite. — K.P.

Starring: Max Schreck, Gustav von Wangenheim, Greta Schröder, and Alexander Granach

How to watch: Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror comes to Shudder on March 8.

1. Daredevil: Born Again

Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox) bursts back onto our screens in Daredevil: Born Again, a soft reboot of Netflix's Daredevil. This time around, a tragic incident has caused Matt to hang up the Daredevil mask once and for all. But as his enemy Wilson Fisk (Vincent D'Onofrio) rises to power as New York City's new mayor, how long will it be until Matt returns to the vigilante life?

SEE ALSO: 'Daredevil: Born Again' makes me want to watch the Netflix series: Review

As someone who never watched the original Daredevil, Daredevil: Born Again still managed to suck me right in and convince me to bring Daredevil to the top of my watch list. Fans of the first series may need time to process the early losses of some key characters, but there's still lots to enjoy as Daredevil: Born Again gets cooking. As I wrote in my review, "Daredevil: Born Again stakes its claim as one of the MCU's strongest TV entries, thanks in no small part to Cox's work and some exceptionally gnarly fights." — B.E.

Starring: Charlie Cox, Vincent D'Onofrio, Margarita Levieva, Deborah Ann Woll, Elden Henson, Wilson Bethel, Zabryna Guevara, Nikki M. James, Genneya Walton, Arty Froushan, Clark Johnson, Michael Gandolfini, Ayelet Zurer, and Jon Bernthal

How to watch: Daredevil: Born Again is now streaming on Disney+.

* denotes that this blurb appeared in a previous Mashable list.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Inter Miami vs. Cavalier online for free

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 12:00

TL;DR: Live stream Inter Miami vs. Cavalier in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free on YouTube. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The last game from this round of Concacaf Champions Cup fixtures sees Inter Miami take on Cavalier. Lionel Messi and co will be favorites to progress into the next round, but don't count out the team from Jamaica. Anything could happen in tournament football.

If you want to watch Inter Miami vs. Cavalier in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Inter Miami vs. Cavalier?

Inter Miami vs. Cavalier in the Concacaf Champions Cup kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on March 6. This fixture takes place at Chase Stadium.

How to watch Inter Miami vs. Cavalier for free

Inter Miami vs. Cavalier in the Concacaf Champions Cup is available to live stream for free on YouTube.

This free live stream is available in most locations around the world, but not in North or Central America. Fortunately, fans in these excluded territories can still access this free live stream with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK (or somewhere else with access), meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Concacaf Champions Cup from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Inter Miami vs. Cavalier by following these simple steps:

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

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

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK (or somewhere else with access)

  4. Visit YouTube

  5. Live stream Inter Miami vs. Cavalier for free

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Inter Miami vs. Cavalier in the Concacaf Champions Cup without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select Concacaf Champions Cup fixtures before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming services from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for YouTube?

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Inter Miami vs. Cavalier in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Why are there no iPhones in Severance?

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 12:00

In February 2020, Rian Johnson revealed a Hollywood secret that threatened to spoil every mystery movie you'll ever watch. Speaking to Vanity Fair in a video breaking down his latest film, the director of Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Looper divulged a subtle clue hidden in his twisty new whodunit, Knives Out.

"Apple, they let you use iPhones in movies, but — and this is very pivotal — if you're ever watching a mystery movie, bad guys cannot have iPhones on camera," Johnson said. "Every single filmmaker who has a bad guy in their movie that's supposed to be a secret wants to murder me right now."

In the years since, Johnson's quote has become a decoder ring of sorts for eagle-eyed movie and TV fans. Not sure if a character is good or evil? Wait for the camera to show you their smartphone and you'll have your answer. His own movie bears this out, with the murderous Chris Evans being one of the only Knives Out characters sending green bubbles to the group chat. This rule seemingly even predates the iPhone — back in 2002, WIRED pointed out that the heroes on 24 all use Mac computers, while the terrorists were stuck with PCs.

This brings us to Severance, an Apple TV+ show so chock-full of mysteries that we don't even know what state it takes place in (more on that in a bit), let alone who's a hero and who's a villain. So when protagonist Mark Scout (Adam Scott) was spotted holding an Android phone, it felt like a huge break in the case. Was our leading man actually a secret baddie? However, a closer look at the many smartphones in Severance reveals something far stranger: There are absolutely zero iPhones in Apple's hit sci-fi show.

SEE ALSO: The cast of 'Severance' on getting lost in the ever-expanding hallways of Lumon

The reason why Apple's products are totally absent from the show is unclear, but what this absence reveals is perhaps even more interesting than one spoilery Easter egg could ever be. Instead, the choice to remove iPhones from the world of Severance gives us a window into the show's unique approach to world-building and how it's used to create a series unlike anything else on TV.

It's worth noting that not everyone in Severance owns a smartphone, Apple or otherwise. In Season 2, Irving (one of Mark's severed colleagues played by John Turturro) is seen making a call from a pay phone — remember those? And back in Season 1, Mark's former coworker Petey (Yul Vazquez) shows up at his house with a flip phone, which some fans identified as a modern "dumbphone" called the Easyfone Prime-A1

However, smartphones as we know them do exist in the show's universe. Mark's unbearable brother-in-law Ricken (Michael Chernus) is shown using a generic Android-style device in Season 1, and we've also seen Mark wielding a similar gadget. When he's working on the Severed Floor, Mark's boss Seth Milchick (Tramell Tillman) carries a touchscreen satellite phone reminiscent of the Android-powered Thuraya X5 Touch (presumably so he can get a signal from within the company's top-secret underground offices).

So if it's clear that smartphones exist in Severance's world, then why can't there be iPhones? We reached out to Apple TV+ for comment, but the company wasn't able to provide an answer in time for publication. However, we have a few theories of our own.

What does it mean that Apple TV+'s hit show has no iPhones?

The first, and more enticing, theory is that the creators of Severance purposefully removed all iPhones from their sci-fi universe to obscure the truth from its audience. Apple is well aware that we know about its iPhone-villain rule, so it makes sense that a hit Apple TV+ show would be cautious not to give away any secrets by blindly following that very rule. If Mark (or, god forbid, Milchick) had an iPhone, it might give away the goat (pun very much intended).

The second, more likely theory is that the smartphones in Severance are designed to reinforce a larger point: that the show takes place in a world familiar but eerily different from our own. Every little detail seems designed to remind audiences that the story is set in a funhouse mirror reflection of our own reality, right down to the retro-futuristic computers that Mark and his coworkers use for their microdata refinement. One Season 1 screenshot shared on Reddit even reveals that the story takes place in the town of Kier, PE. That's right, Severance created its own fictional state, though the same screenshot also includes a reference to the real-life city of Boston.

(Notably, another moment from Season 1 that's been dissected on Reddit is a shot of Mark's license plate, which reveals he was born in 1978 and dates the license to 2020. So while Severance may not take place in our reality, it does take place at around the same time.)

It's also worth noting that Severance isn't the only alternate-reality sci-fi show on Apple TV+ forced to deal with similar issues. The critically acclaimed (if significantly less popular) For All Mankind began as an alternate history about a world where the U.S.S.R. beat America to the Moon and has since leapt forward into a dramatically different 21st Century where technology and space exploration advanced much more rapidly — including smartphones.

In 2022, the show's third season, which takes place in an alternate version of the early ‘90s, featured a video phone designed to resemble Apple's Newton devices. For old-school technology geeks, it made for a fascinating look into a parallel reality where Steve Jobs never killed off the Newton product line. The iPhone may not exist in For All Mankind (at least not yet), but something just as interesting has taken its place.

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As for Severance, while the show's total lack of iPhones raises plenty of questions, we're hesitant to read too deeply into this one minor detail, at least for now. After all, as many have pointed out, the iPhone-villain rule is really more of a suggestion. For example, the guy in John Wick who kills the hero's dog uses an iPhone — and it doesn't get more evil than that. 

Even Rian Johnson has poked fun at the rule. In his Knives Out sequel, Glass Onion, one line of dialogue reveals that the movie's ultimate villain doesn't have a phone at all. Meanwhile, in the Oscar–winning class drama Parasite, director Bong Joon Ho ignores Apple's rule entirely. Instead, Bong gives his rich characters iPhones and his poor characters Androids, forcing the audience to figure out for themselves who's the hero and who's the villain.

Spoiler alert: In Parasite, the villain is capitalism. And, hey, maybe the same goes for Severance, too.

Severance Season 2 is now streaming on AppleTV+, with new episodes every Friday.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Lady Gaga sing-narrates the lives of the SNL cast in silly skit

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:59

Lady Gaga is hosting and performing on SNL this week, but first she needs to follow her process.

In the skit above, that includes sitting behind-the-scenes on her piano and sing-narrating everything the cast members are doing and saying to each other.

It makes for some strange lyrics, but at least Lady Gaga's voice makes everything sound good.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Save over $80 on the Apple Magic Keyboard at Amazon

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:59

SAVE $82: As of March 6, the Apple Magic Keyboard is on sale for $267 at Amazon. That's 23% off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Magic Keyboard $267 at Apple
$349 Save $82 Get Deal

iPad accessories are a great addition to your device. Whether you're a creative looking to design your next project with the Apple Pencil, or you'd like to transform your tablet into a laptop for work on the go, you can more often than not find a great deal on Apple products at Amazon, including this latest deal on the Apple Magic Keyboard.

As of March 6, you can purchase the Magic Keyboard for the lower price of $267, saving you $82 on list price. This deal is currently only available in black and is compatible with the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th, 5th, 4th, and 3rd generation).

SEE ALSO: Where to preorder the new Apple Mac Studio

The Magic Keyboard is a great way to transform your iPad. It’s super easy to use — no charging or pairing needed — just snap it on and start typing. It features backlit keys for comfy, quiet typing, a built-in trackpad for gestures and precision, and even a USB-C port for charging.

It can be purchased in different languages, including Arabic, British English, Chinese (Pinyin), Chinese (Zhuyin), Danish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish (Latin America), Spanish (Spain), Swiss, Ukrainian, and U.S. English.

Its floating cantilever design lets you find the perfect viewing angle. And when not in use, the keyboard folds up into a protective cover to help prevent any damage while on the move.

Get this iPad deal at Amazon now.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Some very detailed foldable iPhone predictions just dropped, and you wont like the price

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:56

Yes, we've seen numerous rumors about a foldable iPhone in the past couple of years, but this one hits different.

First, it comes from the almost-always reliable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who shared his latest predictions in a blog post on Thursday. The foldable iPhone, he writes, is likely to be finalized in late 2025 with sales starting in the last quarter of 2026.

But what makes this report interesting is the amount of detail Kuo is sharing, indicating that the foldable iPhone may actually be real and not just a myth.

SEE ALSO: Apple iPhone 16e review: Battery life king

According to Kuo, the foldable Apple iPhone will have a "book-style design," which presumably means it'll be horizontally folding outwards just like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series. It will reportedly have a 7.8-inch, crease-free inner display, and a 5.5-inch outer display, though Kuo says all the measurements are approximate. The phone is also reported to have a dual rear camera, and an additional selfie camera that will be available both when the phone is folded and unfolded.

Featured Video For You The Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold tech and specs

The foldable iPhone is also said be 9 to 9.5 millimeters thick when folded, and 4.5 to 4.8 millimeters thick when unfolded. In comparison, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6 is quite a bit thicker, measuring 12.1 millimeters when folded and and 5.6 millimeters when unfolded.

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For the hinge, Apple will reportedly use a combination of stainless steel and titanium alloy, while the casing will be made of titanium (just like the current iPhone 16 Pro models). On the side, the phone will have a Touch ID button (likely similar to the one on the 2021 version of the iPad mini)

Finally, the phone will use the same high-density battery cells as the upcoming super-thin iPhone 17; with that phone still being in the realm of rumor, we don't really know much about those cells at the moment.

None of this is set in stone, as Kuo says that final specs will be "locked" in the second quarter of 2025.

With regards to timing, the analyst even goes so far as to predict the next generation of the foldable iPhone, which should enter mass production in the second half of 2027.

About that price. Kuo claims that the first-gen foldable iPhone will retail "above $2,000 and $2,500" — it's unclear what this means, but presumably it could refer to different variants of the device. Despite that hefty price, the analyst predicts that the foldable iPhone will sell well, with shipments reaching 3-5 million units in 2026.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for March 6, 2025

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:55

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for March 6 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

  • Yellow: Something gradually disappearing

  • Green: Taking care of plants

  • Blue: Types of footwear

  • Purple: Common "sand" phrases

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

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

  • Yellow: Wane

  • Green: Do Some Tasks in the Garden

  • Blue: Shoes

  • Purple: Sand___

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

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

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #634 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Wane: DWINDLE, FADE, PETER, TAPER

  • Do Some Tasks in the Garden: PLANT, PRUNE, WATER, WEED

  • Shoes: FLAT, MARY JANE, MULE, SLIDE

  • Sand___: CASTLE, PAPER, PIPER, STONE

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for March 6

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

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

Wordle today: Answer, hints for March 6, 2025

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:55

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

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 today: Hints and answers for March 6 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's The Mini crossword answers for March 6, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A watchful state of mind.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no reoccurring letters.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter A.

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...

ALERT.

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 March 6

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 the latest Wordle.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for March 6

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:55

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

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

  • Yellow: Describing a basket

  • Green: Famously said by Muhammed Ali

  • Blue: Teams in a women's 3-on-3 league

  • Purple: Share a first word

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

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

  • Yellow: Knock down a shot

  • Green: "Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee"

  • Blue: Teams in Unrivaled

  • Purple: Ball _______

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

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

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #164 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today
  • Knock down a shot - DRAIN, DRILL, MAKE, SINK

  • "Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee" - BEE, BUTTERFLY, FLOAT, STING

  • Teams in Unrivaled - LACES, LUNAR OWLS, MIST, VINYL

  • Ball ______ - BOY, CLUB, HAWK, MARKER

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

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

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Strands hints, answers for March 6

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:54

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for March 6 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for March 6 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Love is in the apps

These words are for Tinder and Bumble.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

The words are related to dating apps.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is OnlineDating.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for March 6
  • Swipe

  • Profile

  • Meetup

  • Chat

  • Ghost

  • Like

  • Match

  • OnlineDating

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

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for March 6, 2025

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:54

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

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

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

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, March 6, 2025:

AcrossSound of mosquito electrocution
  • The answer is Zap.

Niche publication printed in small batches
  • The answer is Zine.

Nintendo princess
  • The answer is Zelda.

Malevolent creatures in "The Lord of the Rings"
  • The answer is Orcs.

Cry of delight
  • The answer is Ooh.

DownZip
  • The answer is Zilch.

"No ifs, ___ or buts"
  • The answer is Ands.

Sphere in a stir-fry
  • The answer is Pea.

Zip
  • The answer is Zero.

What parents with toddlers might compare their household to
  • The answer is Zoo.

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.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Amazon Fire TV 40-inch 2-Series is at its lowest price this year

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:52

SAVE $70: As of March 6, the Amazon Fire TV 40-Inch 2-Series is on sale for $179.97 at Amazon. This deal saves you 28% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV 40-inch 2-Series $179.97 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $70.02 Get Deal

Do you want to upgrade to a smart TV, but don't want to spend crazy amounts of money? Well, we've found the perfect deal for you. As of March 6, you can buy the Amazon Fire TV 40-inch 2-Series for under $200. Down by 28%, it is now reduced to just $179.97 (specific to the TV-only option). As far as smart TVs go, this one is a stellar option, and not just because of the price.

Like most Amazon devices, this Amazon TV has Alexa voice control. You might not see this as a standout feature for a TV, but trust us, it comes in handy when you need to search through multiple streaming platforms for your favorite show. You can also use Alexa to search the internet and control some of your other smart home devices like speakers or robot vacuums.

SEE ALSO: Listen up! Grab Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds for $80 off at Amazon.

For entertainment, the TV runs on Amazon's Fire OS, so you'll have access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more. It also features two standard HDMI inputs and one ARC input, making it easy to connect gaming devices. And it supports Dolby Audio for even better sound quality. Image quality is great too, with an HD 1080p resolution to enjoy.

And if you have another Fire TV device in your home, you'll be able to watch seamlessly between each, as all stay synced to each other.

Head over to Amazon to secure this limited-time deal.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Im not turning my nose up at LGs UT70 65-Inch 4K TV for under $350, and neither should you

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:42

SAVE $250: As of March 6, the LG 65-inch UT70 Series 4K Smart TV is available for $349.99 at Best Buy. That's a $250 discount from its regular price of $599.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG 65-inch UT70 Series 4K Smart TV $349.99 at Best Buy
$599.99 Save $250 Get Deal

This might be your golden opportunity if you’ve been waiting for a budget-friendly 4K TV upgrade. Best Buy has the LG 65-inch UT70 Series 4K Smart TV on sale for $349.99, a massive $250 discount from its usual price of $599.99. A 65-inch TV under $350? That’s not something you see every day.

This TV doesn’t just bring size to the table; it’s loaded with LG’s α5 AI Processor Gen7. It enhances brightness, sound, and picture detail for a more immersive viewing experience. HDR10 Pro ensures improved contrast, so your favorite shows and movies pop off the screen with deeper blacks and vibrant colors. And if you’re a cinephile, FILMMAKER MODE lets you watch content exactly as the director intended. No weird motion smoothing to mess with the visuals.

SEE ALSO: The roborock Qrevo Edge robot vacuum is down to its lowest-ever price

Gamers aren’t left out, either. The LG Game Optimizer puts all your gaming settings in one place so you can tweak performance on the fly. GeForce NOW support lets you stream games without needing a console, making this a solid pick for cloud gaming.

On the audio side, AI Sound 5.1 up-mixes 2-channel audio into virtual 5.1 surround sound, making action scenes feel more intense without needing a separate sound system.

  • Price: $349.99 $599.99

  • Retailer: Best Buy

  • Display: 65-inch LED, 4K UHD

  • Processor: α5 AI Processor Gen7

  • HDR: HDR10 Pro

  • Gaming Features: Game Optimizer, GeForce NOW support

  • Audio: AI Sound 5.1 (virtual surround sound)

  • Smart TV OS: webOS with 300+ free LG Channels

  • Software Updates: Up to 5 years

  • Included Accessories: Standard remote, tabletop stand, power cable, remote batteries

For streaming, webOS provides access to all the big-name apps like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and Hulu. LG Channels gives you access to 300+ free channels, so you’ll never run out of things to watch. With up to five years of software updates, this TV is designed to stay fresh for the long haul.

A 65-inch 4K smart TV for under $350 is a rare deal, so if you’re thinking about upgrading your home theater setup, now’s the time.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I cant turn down a premium ANC bargain — save 50% on Sennheiser Accentum headphones

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:39

SAVE 50%: As of March 6, Sennheiser Accentum headphones are on sale for $99.95 at Amazon. That's 50% off their regular price of $199.95.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sennheiser Sennheiser Accentum Headphones $99.95 at Amazon
$199.95 Save $100.00 Get Deal

When it comes to premium audio, Sennheiser is one of those brands that audiophiles swear by. Usually, that kind of quality comes with a hefty price tag, but today, Amazon has slashed the price of Sennheiser Accentum wireless Bluetooth headphones to just $99.99, 50% off their usual price of $199.95. If you’ve been looking for a high-quality pair of noise-canceling headphones without wrecking your budget, this deal sells itself.

So, what makes the Accentum worth your money? Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) lets you fully immerse yourself in your music by blocking out background noise. But if you need to stay aware of your surroundings, Transparency Mode lets external sounds in with a simple toggle.

SEE ALSO: The roborock Qrevo Edge robot vacuum is down to its lowest-ever price

On the audio side, Sennheiser’s HD stereo sound delivers a rich, well-balanced listening experience. You can even tweak the EQ to match your preferences. Fancy extra bass or crisp highs, built-in five-band equalizer, and customizable sound modes? These bad boy cans let you perfectly fine-tune your audio.

One of the biggest selling points is battery life, a staggering 50 hours on a single charge. That’s more than enough to get you through multiple workdays, long-haul flights, or an entire weekend of binge listening. And if you’re in a hurry, fast charging gives you five hours of playback from just a 10-minute charge.

  • Price: $99.95 $199.95

  • Retailer: Amazon

  • Noise Cancelling: Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling (ANC)

  • Sound Mode: HD Stereo with customizable EQ

  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, optional USB-A/USB-C dongle

  • Battery Life: Up to 50 hours

  • Fast Charging: Yes (5 hours of playback from 10-minute charge)

  • Microphone: Yes (clear voice pick-up for calls)

  • Color Options: Black Copper, Black, White

  • Smart Features: Transparency Mode, on-device controls

For those who want seamless device pairing, the ACCENTUM headphones support Bluetooth connectivity with both PC and Mac, and there’s even an optional USB-A/USB-C dongle for a more stable wireless connection with computers. On-device controls let you manage music and calls effortlessly; no need to reach for your phone every time you need to pause or skip a track.

At under $100, this deal is ridiculous for a pair of high-end ANC headphones from a reputable brand like Sennheiser. If you’re looking for crystal-clear sound, long battery life, and effective noise cancellation, grab this deal while it lasts.

Categories: IT General, Technology

I found Beats Studio Pro headphones for $150 off at Best Buy

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:34

SAVE $150: As of March 6, Beats Studio Pro wireless noise-canceling headphones are on sale for $199.99 at Best Buy, down from their regular price of $349.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Pro $199.99 at Best Buy
$349.99 Save $150 Get Deal

I refuse to pay full price for a good pair of headphones when I know deals like this exist. Right now, Best Buy is offering Beats Studio Pro wireless noise-canceling headphones for just $199.99, a massive $150 discount from their regular price of $349.99. If you’ve been hunting for premium sound without the premium price tag, this might be your sign to grab a pair.

So, what makes these headphones worth considering? For starters, active noise canceling (ANC) continuously adapts to your environment, blocking out distractions so you can stay immersed in your music, podcast, or that true crime audiobook you pretend isn’t keeping you up at night. If you still need some awareness of your surroundings, Transparency Mode lets in external sounds with the press of a button.

SEE ALSO: The roborock Qrevo Edge robot vacuum is down to its lowest-ever price

On the audio front, Beats didn’t hold back. Dolby Atmos sound ensures a fully immersive experience, while Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking adjusts to your movement and feels like the sound is following you. Deep in a gaming session or just vibing with your favorite playlist? This tech makes everything sound rich and dynamic.

Comfort-wise, the UltraPlush leather ear cushions are designed for long listening sessions without feeling like your head is trapped in a vise. And speaking of long listening sessions, the 40-hour battery life (or 24 hours with ANC on) means you won’t constantly be tethered to a charger. Need a quick power boost? Fast charging gives you four hours of playback from just a 10-minute charge.

  • Price: $199.99 $349.99

  • Retailer: Best Buy

  • Noise Cancelling: Active Noise Cancelling (ANC)

  • Sound Mode: Dolby Atmos

  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C, 3.5mm audio input

  • Battery Life: Up to 40 hours (24 hours with ANC on)

  • Fast Charging: Yes (4 hours of playback from 10-minute charge)

  • Microphone: Yes (voice-targeting mics for clear calls)

  • Ear Cushion Material: UltraPlush engineered leather

  • Smart Features: Personalized Spatial Audio, Transparency Mode

Another major perk? Unlike some headphones that are clearly optimized for Apple devices, these work seamlessly with both Apple and Android. You’ll get one-touch pairing, deeper ecosystem integration, and multiple connectivity options including USB-C audio and a 3.5mm headphone jack for old-school wired listening.

At under $200, this deal is about as good as it gets for premium ANC headphones. Beats Studio Pro delivers when upgrading your setup, traveling, or wanting to block out the world for a bit.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to create a custom camera filter on a Samsung Galaxy phone

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 10:15

Samsung's phones are well-known for the excellent quality of their cameras. This includes a selection of filters in the Camera app, which allow users to jazz up their snaps by choosing preset adjustments to contrast, saturation, and other such settings.

However, if none of these filters are quite what you're after, Samsung also allows you to create your own custom camera filter based on an image in your camera roll. Simply choose a picture, and your phone will emulate its colour and style in a new camera filter.

SEE ALSO: Behold, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge

Here's how to create and save a custom camera filter on your Samsung phone.

Total Time
  • 1 min
What You Need
  • Samsung phone

Step 1: Open your Camera app.

Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Step 2: Swipe to Photo mode.

Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Step 3: Tap the three overlapping circles in the top right corner to open the filter menu.

Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Step 4: Tap the plus symbol (+) next to the filter options.

Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Step 5: Choose an image from your camera roll to use as the basis for your custom filter.

Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Step 6: A camera view demonstrating your filter will appear, with your chosen image below it.

Tap and press the camera view to see it without the filter, and release to turn the filter back on. You can tap your chosen image and then drag the corners to redefine the reference area if you would like the filter to only be based on a certain section. You can also tap the filter name to rename your new filter, then select "Rename" to confirm it.

Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Step 7: Tap "Done" to finalise and save your filter.

Samsung currently doesn't allow you to create a custom filter by manually adjusting settings such as the colour temperature, contrast, and saturation via a slider. There is a way around this though, as you can tweak these settings on a preexisting filter. Simply select the filter you want to edit, tap the value you'd like to change in the bar beneath the filter's name, and drag the arrow to alter it.

The Camera app will save these changes to your filter, so you don't have to readjust it whenever you want to take a new photo. You can also tap the reset button by the filter's name to undo them.

Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Samsung states that you can create up to 99 of your own filters, which seems like way more than you could ever need or realistically manage. The filter feature doesn't work on all resolution and aspect ratio settings, though. If your filter icon is greyed out, try lowering your camera resolution to fix it.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to unblock and watch U.S. Netflix

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 07:00

Collecting all your favourite snacks and drinks, surrounding yourself with comfortable cushions and blankets, and then spending hours in front of a screen can be a truly therapeutic experience. Unfortunately, there is one big problem with this hobby: There is a limited amount of content out there to keep you entertained.

We're a greedy bunch, and regular streamers can easily get to a point where it feels like there's nothing left to watch. What are you supposed to do then? Don't panic, because there is a simple solution to this frustrating issue.

If you've reached this point of streaming shortage, you should consider investing in a VPN. It will likely unlock a lot of shows and movies on services to which you're already subscribed.

What is a VPN?

VPNs are security tools that provide protection for your information by creating a private network that hides your real IP address (digital location). All of your activity is untraceable and secure, because all of your online traffic passes through an encrypted tunnel. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside the tunnel is protected against online threats like hackers, viruses, and malware.

SEE ALSO: 30 best movies on Netflix to stream right now

The act of hiding your real IP address is what can trick leading streaming sites into thinking you are based in another country.

Do you need a VPN?

VPNs are used to provide protection for your sensitive information, which is obviously super important. This isn't the only reason VPNs are so popular though, because these tools can be also be used to watch content that is normally blocked in your location.

By hiding your real IP address and connecting you to a server in another country, you can watch all your favourite content from that location. For example, you could watch all the extra films and shows on American Netflix that are not usually accessible outside of the U.S. There is so much content out there that can be accessed with the help of a VPN.

Everyone is in need of something that can bypass geo-restrictions to access all of this blocked entertainment, and that something is a VPN. These services are keys to the online world, granting you access to more of the shows and films you love.

How to unblock U.S. Netflix

If you think accessing American Netflix is going to be difficult with a VPN, think again. It's actually a really simple process that absolutely everyone can understand:

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

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

  3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S.

  4. Visit Netflix to watch movies and shows from the U.S. content library

If you're worried that this whole thing sounds a bit illegal, then maybe we can reassure you. It's currently legal to watch Netflix while using a VPN, although we should point out that Netflix states in its terms of service that it may restrict your account without compensation or notice if you are engaged in "improper" use. We're not entirely sure what that means, but consider yourself warned.

We should make it very clear that you still need to be subscribed to Netflix for this trick to work. A VPN is not going to grant access to the streaming site for free. A VPN provides access to more libraries from around the world, once you're subscribed.

Should you use free VPNs?

There are plenty of free versions and free trials of VPNs, so why would you ever consider paying for a service? As with most things in life, you get what you pay for with VPNs.

There is always a catch with free versions, and it's normally in the form of limited data usage. These plans will be just fine if you're just an occasional user, but if you're going to be streaming or downloading anything, this isn't going to work. Free trials are different as come with everything you get in a paid plan, but obviously they don't tend to last very long. Trials are great for testing out a service before committing, but this isn't a long-term solution.

To gain access to advanced security features without limitations on usage, you generally need to pay up. That being said, services like ProtonVPN offer an impressive set of features for free. However, you might have trouble streaming Netflix with this free version.

What is the best VPN for Netflix?

There are a lot of VPN services out there that can effectively unblock American Netflix, but which is the best? There are plenty of strong options for you to consider, but we wouldn't want you wasting your time checking everything out. To save you time, we've handpicked your best options. Each service has a different set of features that will suit some users better than others, and it's all about finding something that works for you.

ExpressVPN is at the top of this list because it combines essential features with impressive results, but it isn’t the only option available to you. We have lined up all the best VPNs for unblocking Netflix, with something for everyone on this list. We've highlighted the best deals on the likes of Surfshark, PureVPN, CyberGhost VPN, and NordVPN.

These are the best VPNs for Netflix in 2025.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get a lifetime pass to FastestVPN Pro on 15 devices for £31

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 07:00

TL;DR: Mashable readers can get lifetime access to FastestVPN PRO on 15 devices for just £31.01 (reg. £465.24) — a 93% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: FastestVPN FastestVPN PRO: Lifetime Subscription (15 Devices) £31.01 at the Mashable Shop
£465.24 Save £434.23 Get Deal

Online security and privacy are extremely important for internet users, so having a reliable virtual private network (VPN) is always a smart idea. Whether you’re conducting online banking, working with sensitive data, or just want some added privacy, you could benefit from using a VPN.

FastestVPN PRO offers a comprehensive solution that not only helps protect your digital life but also enhances your online experience with a plethora of advanced features. And right now at the Mashable Shop, you can get a lifetime subscription to FastestVPN PRO for up to 15 devices while it’s on sale for £31.01 (reg. £465.24) — that's just £2.07 per device.

FastestVPN PRO lives up to its name by providing lightning-fast speeds with a 99.9 percent uptime guarantee. With access to over 350 high-speed servers globally, users can enjoy seamless browsing, streaming, and downloading without any lag or buffering. Whether you're accessing the internet from your Windows PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Smart TV, or router, FastestVPN ensures a smooth and uninterrupted connection.

Using the WireGuard protocol, users experience secure and unhindered speeds of up to 10 GBPS on the fastest available servers. The inclusion of double VPN servers adds an extra layer of protection, encrypting your data twice for enhanced privacy. Plus, the Internet Kill Switch feature ensures that your IP address remains hidden even if your connection drops unexpectedly, preventing any potential breaches.

The inclusion of a NAT firewall and ad blocker ensures that your device is shielded from potential threats and intrusive advertisements. Additionally, the AES 256-bit encryption safeguards your data with military-grade protection, giving you peace of mind knowing that your information is secure.

This VPN is very user-friendly, making it accessible to users of all levels. The intuitive interface allows for easy navigation and setup, while the multi-device login feature enables you to protect up to 15 devices simultaneously.

Head to the Mashable Shop to grab a lifetime subscription to FastestVPN PRO on sale for £31.01 (reg. £465.24).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Baked by Melissa is giving away cupcakes for free. Here’s how to get yours on March 7.

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 07:00

FREE CUPCAKES: On March 7, anyone who identifies as a woman can get a free three-pack of bite-size cupcakes from Baked by Melissa. Check participating locations here.

Opens in a new window Credit: Baked by Melissa Baked by Melissa: Free 3-Pack of Cupcakes Learn More

How does International Women’s Day make you feel? Do you feel pride? Do you feel motivated? Do you feel hungry?

On March 7 (the day before International Women’s Day), anyone who identifies as a woman can visit any Baked by Melissa (check participating locations here) to pick up a free three-pack of bite-size cupcakes. This free giveaway is only available while supplies last and no qualifying purchase is necessary. Simply stop by and eat for free.

SEE ALSO: Lego is giving away an exclusive Steering Wheel for free. Here’s how to get yours on March 9.

And that's not all, because Baked By Melissa is partnering with Girls With Impact to release a limited-edition Women’s History Month 25-pack (costing $37). For every box sold, $5 will go directly to Girls With Impact, helping them reach their goal of empowering 50,000 young women by 2028. This partnership is running until the end of the month.

Celebrate International Women’s Day by picking up a free three-pack of bite-size cupcakes on March 7.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best Disney+ deals and bundles in March 2025

Mashable - Thu, 03/06/2025 - 07:00

DISNEY+ BUNDLES: Disney+ is offering bundle deals so you can stream the best of its library at a lower price.

The best Disney+ deals and bundles in March 2025: Best Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle $16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free Get Deal Best Basic Bundle Deal Disney Bundle Duo Basic Disney+ and Hulu with ads for $10.99 per month Get Deal

Whether you're looking to jump into the latest superhero saga or journey to a galaxy far, far away, Disney+ is the streaming service for you.

Home to Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and so much more, Disney+ offers a library that's chock-full of shows and films to keep both adults and kids entertained. This includes the latest Marvel show, Daredevil: Born Again, which we said, "stakes its claim as one of the MCU's strongest TV entries" in our review.

If you've had this streaming service on your radar but are unsure which plan is the best fit for you, we've got you covered with a selection of Disney+ streaming deals.

SEE ALSO: Rate your favorite smart home gear for a chance to win a $250 Amazon gift card

There are quite a few bundle deals to check out with Disney+ right now, including the Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle. This is a great investment for those who already own the other two streaming services and are looking to cut down on costs. And with streaming prices on the rise (Disney+ even increased its prices just last year), now's a great time to jump on a bundle like that.

We've detailed all of the available bundle deals below, alongside basic information on Disney+ plans if you just want the House of Mouse's service on its own.

Best Bundle Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle $16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free Get Deal Why we like it

The Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle is one of the best available at the moment. Starting at $16.99 per month, you can have three excellent streaming services right in the palm of your hand, which is a great offer to take advantage of given streaming service prices keep going up. The $16.99 per month option is for the With Ads plan, but if you'd prefer to watch your favorite content without ads, the No Ads plan comes to $29.99 per month. Compared to what you'd pay for each of these on their own, you're saving 43% with the ad-supported plan and 42% with the ad-free plan.

Best Basic Bundle Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney Bundle Duo Basic Disney+ and Hulu with ads for $10.99 per month Get Deal Why we like it

If the Disney+, Hulu, and Max mega bundle feels like a bit too much, there are smaller bundle deals to check out instead. One of the most affordable bundle options the service has is the Duo Basic bundle. This brings together Disney+ and Hulu (With Ads) for $10.99 per month. This is a great way to gain access to both of their libraries for only $1 more than what you'd pay for their ad-supported plans on their own.

If you'd rather spring for the ad-free version of that bundle, Duo Premium is what you need. This offers both Disney+ and Hulu without ads for $19.99 per month instead. Disney+ also has Trio bundles that throw in ESPN+. The Trio Basic plan, which has ads, runs for $16.99 per month, and the Trio Premium plan without ads costs $26.99 per month.

Disney+ monthly plans

Disney+ offers two standard plans if you just want the service on its own. The Disney+ Basic ad-supported plan comes to $9.99 per month while the ad-free Disney+ Premium plan will set you back $15.99 per month or $159.99 per year if you'd rather pay annually.

Disney+ has also created an "extra member" plan for people using your account that live outside of your household as they crack down on password sharing. If you're looking to add another person onto your account, you're only allowed one extra profile and can choose from the following add-on plans:

  • Disney+ Basic — $6.99 per month

  • Disney+ Premium — $9.99 per month

  • Disney Bundle Duo Basic — $7.99 per month

  • Disney Bundle Duo Premium — $10.99 per month

  • Disney Bundle Trio Basic — $11.99 per month

  • Disney Bundle Trio Premium — $14.99 per month

There's a wealth of shows and films to check out on Disney+ after you sign up. If you want some help finding something to watch, check out our roundups of the 12 best TV shows for adults on Disney+ and the 20 best movies on Disney+ to start building out your watchlist.

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