Technology

SAVE $40: As of April 29, the Fitbit Charge 6 is on sale for $119.95 at Amazon. That's 25% off its list price of $159.95.

Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Fitbit Charge 6 $119.95 at Amazon
$159.95 Save $40.00 Get Deal

Fitness trackers are a helpful investment if you lead an active lifestyle and like to stay on top of your progress. If you've been on the lookout for an upgrade, there are some great discounts available at the moment. And that includes top brands like Fitbit. One of the best that has caught our eye recently is on the Fitbit Charge 6 at Amazon.

The Fitbit Charge 6 fitness tracker has received a 25% discount at Amazon. This has dropped its price from $159.95 to $119.95, allowing you to save $40. It's currently listed as a limited-time deal, so it's worth keeping in mind that this discount may not stick around for long. If you're interested in picking it up, now is the time to do it.

SEE ALSO: Get $90 off the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 for a limited time

This fitness tracker will keep you up to date on all your goals. The Fitbit Charge 6 boasts a variety of health and fitness features, including all-day activity tracking, heart rate tracking, calorie tracking, Active Zone Minutes, and sleep tracking, just to name a few. On top of that, it has an amazing battery life of up to seven days, so you can stay focused on your workouts without worrying about frequent recharges. We even consider the Fitbit Charge 6 to be the best for everyday tracking in our roundup of the best fitness trackers.

If you're looking for a fitness tracker upgrade, this limited-time deal on the Fitbit Charge 6 is worth a look.

It's not the only fitness tracker deal we've come across, though. The Garmin Venu 3S is another sleek option enjoying a discount at Amazon right now, for those who want a tracker that looks a bit more like a watch.

Learn all about modern CSS layouts and polish up your core CSS skills with these interactive games. With layout techniques like CSS grid, a speedrun challenge, and a fundamental selector test, there’s something for all abilities.

SAVE $29.01: As of April 29, Apple AirPods 4 are on sale for $99.99 at Amazon. That's 22% off their list price of $129.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods 4 $99.99 at Amazon
$129 Save $29.01 Get Deal

There have been some great discounts on Apple devices recently — including iPads and MacBooks — and Apple AirPods 4 (without ANC) are joining in on the fun. These earbuds have dropped back down to their lowest-ever price at Amazon, so if you've been waiting for a good deal before grabbing them, now is your chance.

Apple AirPods 4 without noise-cancelation have been marked down to $99.99, a 22% discount from their usual list price of $129. This marks a return to their lowest-ever price according to price tracker camelcamelcamel.

SEE ALSO: The 8 best earbuds to buy in 2025 from Bose, Sony, and more

Apple AirPods 4 don't come with noise-canceling features, but they're still worth the investment for the sound quality alone. Fitted with the H2 chip, your favorite songs, podcasts, and more can sound crisp and clear while you listen. These earbuds even feature Personalized Spatial Audio that can surround you with whatever you're listening to. In our breakdown of Apple AirPods 4 vs. AirPods 3, we found that in comparison to their predecessor's sound quality, "the AirPods 4 takes it up a notch because it adds an improved amplifier and driver, which leads to better bass, and clearer mids and highs."

If you've been on the hunt for an earbud upgrade, this deal on Apple AirPods 4 is worth considering.

Looking for more great Apple deals right now? Another worthwhile discount at Amazon is on the new 11-inch iPad, which has dropped down to its lowest price yet at the retailer.

Deciding to get back into the dating game can feel like a big deal at any age, but when you’re in your 40s, you might be weighing things a little more carefully — are these sites even worth the cost and effort to find something real? It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking the dating pool has thinned out or that everyone’s already paired up.

Turns out, research has a different story to tell. While pinning down one perfect number for the entire over-40 single population is a bit tricky, the data paints a clear picture: there are definitely plenty of fish in the sea. Articles often mention figures around 50 percent of the over-40 crowd being single, with a pretty even split between women and men. So, even if that exact number wobbles a bit depending on the source and how "single" is defined (never married, divorced, widowed, separated), the idea that there’s no one out there doesn't really hold water when you look at the facts. It’s way more likely that society’s outdated, negative ideas about aging and dating are what make people throw in the towel way too soon.

The dating landscape is actually pretty active among older adults. Plenty of folks are single parents, navigating life after divorce, widowed, or just haven’t found their person yet. And seriously, it’s absolutely not too late to find that meaningful connection online.

SEE ALSO: How to protect your mental health while using dating apps How to find a partner in your 40s

So, we’ve established that the over-40 dating pool is far from empty, and hopefully, you're feeling a bit more optimistic about the possibilities. Now you might be thinking, “OK, great, but where do I even start?" Our game plan is straightforward: online dating. We know you may have some preconceived notions, but stick with us for a sec.

Online dating is like stepping into a room full of people who are also looking to connect, all from the comfort of your couch. The best dating sites for singles over 40 are designed to make those connections happen easily. You get to peek at profiles, see what people are about, and filter for folks who share your interests and values. Seriously, imagine being able to do that when you walk into a party — it would save a whole lot of awkward small talk!

But before you download a bunch of apps, Kiana Reeves, Somatic Sex Educator, Intimacy Coach, and Chief Education Officer at Foria, recommends taking a moment for self-reflection: "We join dating sites because we’re looking for connection, whether in the form of a serious relationship, a casual fling, or something in between. With that in mind, it’s important to identify the kind of connection you’re looking for before you join any dating sites, apps, etc."

SEE ALSO: Tired of casual dates? Try the best dating apps for serious relationships.

Next, consider your approach to online dating, Reeves says. "Are you looking for a casual swipe-through site to meet people in a new city? Are you someone who likes to make the first move? Are you looking for someone who is only interested in a serious relationship? Are you looking for someone who shares your same faith? How much time are you planning to devote to making a connection?"

Once you've clarified your dating goals, Reeves recommends "joining a couple [apps] to start out with, so you can feel out what kind of user experience makes the most sense for you." She adds, "Of course, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s totally fine to just join one to start."

The best dating apps for singles over 40

Ready to find love after 40? Or maybe you're just looking for a no-strings-attached fling? We get it, and we're here to help. As dating site experts, we've combed through the best dating sites and best dating apps for people over 40, done the research, and even tried them out ourselves to find the best options for singles like you. Our goal is to be your guide, whether you're a single parent juggling schedules, new to the dating scene after a long break, or just ready for a fresh start. We're here to help you find the platform that clicks best for connecting with others in their 40s and beyond.

SAVE OVER $60: As of April 29, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is on sale for $729.99 at Amazon. This deal saves you $69.01 on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Ultra 2 (GPS, Cellular, 49mm) $729.99 at Amazon
$799 Save $69.01 Get Deal

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 has just become more accessible thanks to a substantial discount at Amazon. Looking to upgrade your wearable tech to something that can handle anything? This is your moment to shine.

We've already been treated to impressive deals on the 13-inch M4 Apple MacBook Air, 2025 Apple iPad Air, and Apple Watch Series 10, but Amazon is not stopping there. As of April 29, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is on sale for $729.99 at Amazon. This deal saves you $69.01 on list price.

SEE ALSO: Asus, of all brands, might have a real Apple Watch competitor

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a rugged, feature-rich smartwatch designed for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. So if you're looking for something that offers advanced fitness tracking, robust build quality, and extended battery life, this deal could be something to seriously consider.

We did see the price of this product drop to $719 over Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but we're not far off those record-low levels.

Pick up the Apple Watch Ultra 2 for $729.99 at Amazon

SAVE $100: As of April 29, the Apple Watch Series 10 is on sale for $299 at Amazon. This deal saves you $100 on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm) $299 at Amazon
$399 Save $100 Get Deal

Amazon is continuing to drop impressive deals on the latest in Apple's lineup. We're not exactly sure what we've done to deserve this treat, but we're not complaining for a moment. We're going to enjoy the good times while they last.

Following on from record-low prices for the 13-inch M4 Apple MacBook Air and 2025 Apple iPad Air, the Apple Watch Series 10 is on sale for $299 at Amazon. This deal saves you $100 on list price, and marks the lowest it has ever been on Amazon.

SEE ALSO: Asus, of all brands, might have a real Apple Watch competitor

A lot of people complain about the battery life of the Apple Watch, but the Apple Watch Series 10 finally deals with that issue. This model offers up to 18 hours of battery life and comes with fast charging. Mashable's Senior Editor Stan Schroeder reviewed the Apple Watch Series 10 and found it got back up to 80% in 40 minutes. He charged from 20 to 80% and found it took about 25 minutes, meaning "that you can essentially charge your Watch as you brush your teeth or make coffee in the morning."

Pick up the Apple Watch Series 10 for under $300 at Amazon.

The Dell Pro 14 Plus (P1425) is a decent portable monitor that I'd recommend to professionals, but it has some weaknesses that prevent it from truly achieving greatness. You might love this simple, ultra-bright monitor if you don't care about high color contrast or integrated speakers.

Bigger isn’t always better, and that’s certainly the case when it comes to TVs. Your living room TV is free to be as large as you’d like, but some rooms call for a smaller TV. And as a bonus, smaller models are often more affordable than larger TVs.

Outfitting a kids' room with a TV, snagging one for the garage, or buying a TV for a studio apartment are all reasons why a 55-inch-or-under model might work best for your space. As is standard when buying any size TV, you’ll be facing an overwhelming number of options that call for some decisions, like whether you want OLED or QLED and what kind of refresh rate you’re looking for. Before you fall into a Googling frenzy, check out what the experts say.

How to shop for a new TV

Aside from choosing a laptop, TVs are probably next in line for the amount of jargon you’ll need to decode while shopping. If you’re not interested in becoming a TV expert, Mashable's sister site, PCMag, has a team of experts who test TVs with fancy equipment like a Klein K-80 colorimeter, a Murideo SIX-G signal generator, an HDFury Diva 4K HDMI matrix, and Portrait Displays’ Calman software. Since you don’t have that tech in your garage (you wouldn’t be reading this if you did), PCMag’s home entertainment expert, Will Greenwald, helped us choose the best 55-inch and under TVs.

We’ve intentionally kept this list slim, knowing the number of options is far too lengthy and none of us have that kind of time these days. Keep in mind, there are a few times throughout the year that are best to get a discount on a new TV, so shop during those periods if you’re looking to grab the best discount.

Best overall 55-inch Hisense U8N 4K TV $999.99 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $500 Shop Now Why we like it

The 55-inch Hisense U8N with its bright display and QLED screen is a great choice for most people. The 2025 model is pricey, with a $1,499.99 MSRP — though we've seen it on sale for under $1,000. The 2024 model is a more budget-friendly choice with a list price of $998 and a regular sale price of under $700. "Budget-priced TVs available in smaller screen sizes like 50 or 43 inches are usually much dimmer than higher-end TVs, and their colors aren't as wide,” said Greenwald, but the Hisense doesn’t disappoint when it comes to brightness. In fact, CNET, another Mashable sister site, also found the Hisense U8N to be a prime option for a 55-inch TV, mentioning its impressive image quality, which uses mini-LED backlights.

After Greenwald’s testing of the 2024 Hisense U8N, he said, “Hisense once again hits it out of the park with a premium TV that rivals much more expensive competitors.”

Hisense also equipped this model with full-array local dimming, which means your screen will have better picture quality. Some TVs only use LED lighting around the edge, while full-array places LED throughout the back of the screen with locally dimmable areas to provide deeper blacks for a better experience with increased brightness, better contrast, and a crisp image.

We’re also fans of the Google TV integration, which neatly keeps your favorite streaming platforms easily accessible on the home screen with an intuitive design. Google Cast lets you push from an Android device or Chrome tab to the TV, and Apple AirPlay does the same with an iPhone or iPad.

Should you be looking for a 55-inch TV for gaming, the Hisense U8N has a 144Hz Game Mode Pro, keeping up with quick action.

What are the other sizes?

The Hisense U8N also comes in 65, 75, 85, and 100 inches.

Best high-end TV Opens in a new window Credit: LG 55-inch LG Evo G5 OLED TV $2,499.99 at LG
Shop Now Why we like it

If you’re looking for the best TV possible, the LG Evo G5 OLED TV is likely your best option for 55-inch models. After testing, Greenwald said, “The LG Evo G5 is the best OLED TV I've seen yet,” which says quite a bit since he’s tested over 170 TVs. That statement helps justify the $2,499.99 price tag, but LG packed this model with high-end features that also explain the price. 

For starters, the Evo G5 looks modern and sleek thanks to its almost non-existent bezel and because it sits as close to flush to the wall as it gets. The “G” in Eco G5 stands for “gallery,” and LG intends the TV to look more like an art piece on the wall than a TV. You won't have to worry about finding a wall mount that can accomplish this because it’s included when you buy the TV.

Greenwald said the display is the best OLED he’s ever seen. LG mentions this model is the brightest and most vivid in the brand’s lineup, and PCMag’s testing showed impressive results from the Evo G5.

Instead of a matte finish, LG uses Perfect Black technology, which the brand says is ideal for watching in bright rooms, offering a glare-free experience. The brightness of the LG Evo G5 makes this a great model for cinephiles and those who take picture quality seriously. Greenwald was wowed by the contrast when watching The Great Gatsby and also loved its performance when testing with BBC’s Planet Earth II, mentioning, “It’s a lifelike picture that makes the nature footage look like you’re viewing it through a window and not a TV.”

If you're not thrilled with the price of the Evo G5, Greenwald says it’s wise to look at its predecessor, the LG Evo G4 OLED TV. While it’s not as bright, it’s often on sale, potentially saving you hundreds compared to the standard price of the G5.

What are the other sizes?

The LG Evo G5 OLED also comes in 65, 77, 83, and 97 inches.

Best model under 55 inches 48-inch LG Evo C4 OLED TV $996.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Why we like it

If you’re interested in something under 50 inches that doesn’t sacrifice on quality, the LG Evo C4 OLED TV comes in smaller sizes, including a 48- and 42-inch model. Since it comes with LG’s impressive screen brightness and contrast, these smaller TVs are well worth a spot in your home. However, they tend to be pricey, especially given the size, costing $1,499.99 for the 42-inch model and $1,599.99 for the 48-inch. However, it’s possible to find these models on sale for under $1,000, which brings them into the more affordable range for quality TVs.

The LG Evo C4 really shows off when it comes to screen performance in a bright room, not giving in to lower contrast that often happens with lower-end TVs. We also like the modern aesthetic on the LG Evo C4 with a slim design and barely noticeable bezel.

Another noteworthy feature of the Evo C4 is the four HDMI 2.1 inputs, desirable if you’ll be using this as a gaming TV.

What are the other sizes?

The LG Evo C4 OLED comes in 42, 48, 55, 65, 77, and 83 inches.

Best budget-friendly TV 55-inch Amazon Fire TV Omni 4K QLED $439.99 at Amazon
$499.99 Save $60 Shop Now

If you’re grabbing a TV for a guest bedroom or one for the kids to watch Moana, you might not want to spend much. If that’s the case, we’re proponents of the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED. Right off the bat, it comes with an affordable price tag of under $500 for the 55-inch model (when it’s not on sale), or you can go even cheaper with the 43-inch option, which is just under $440 at full price. However, another budget-friendly benefit is that Amazon typically discounts its own product line during major sales periods like Black Friday and Prime Day, which means you’re likely in for a steep discount. We’ve seen the 43-inch model go as low as $340.

Aside from an attractive price, the Fire TV Omni 4K QLED comes with impressive contrast and nice color that Greenwald noted in his review. Another benefit of hanging out in the Amazon family is the compatibility with other Amazon devices like security cameras, the video doorbell, or smartplugs, all of those being accessible on the TV screen. You can also easily pair the TV with Echo speakers.

The Fire TV Omni can switch into ambient mode when you’re not watching, giving you the ability to customize the display to show your favorite photos, custom artwork, or bring up your calendar.

What are the other sizes?

The Amazon Fire TV Omni 4K QLED TV comes in 43, 50, 55, 65, and 75 inches.

We're 100 days into Donald Trump's second presidency, and Jon Stewart thinks it's time for a review of how things are going so far.

In the Daily Show clip above he gives his blunt opinion on what Trump said while running versus what he's actually delivered, from his promises about the now-tanking economy to his promises about swiftly ending wars. Ultimately, Stewart concludes that his main issue is one of arrogance.

"His negotiating skills aren't the real danger to this country. What's gonna f*** us up is his obsession with the concept of the leverage he has," says Stewart. "You don't have the leverage. That's the key misunderstanding here. Trump is so arrogant. He thinks the leverage is his. It's ours. We, the people. It took the people 250 years of striving to live up to a constitutional republic and rule of law, painstaking equity that you are squandering. That is the crux of American exceptionalism. You just want to make us great. That's a downgrade. Our brand is not strategic uncertainty."

SAVE $50: As of April 29, the new 11-inch Apple iPad (A16 chip, 128GB, WiFi) is on sale at Amazon for $299, 14% off its list price of $349. This marks its lowest price yet at the retailer, according to the price tracker camelcamelcamel.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad 11-inch (A16 chip, 128GB, WiFi) $299 at Amazon
$349 Save $50 Get Deal

If you've had your eye on the new iPad models but have been waiting for a good discount to drop before grabbing them, now's your chance. Amazon's offering an excellent deal on the new 11-inch Apple iPad fitted with the A16 chip, 128GB of storage, and WiFi, dropping it to its lowest price yet according to price tracker camelcamelcamel.

You can score the 11-inch Apple iPad (A16 chip, 128GB, WiFi) for $299 right now at Amazon, a 14% price drop from its list price of $349. That allows you to save $50. All of the available color options are on sale as well, so you can choose between the blue, pink, silver, and yellow models.

SEE ALSO: The new Apple iPad Air is down to its lowest-ever price on Amazon

Considering this iPad was just announced in March, this is a very nice deal indeed. Boasting the A16 chip, this 11-inch iPad comes with a boost in power over its predecessor and even more storage to start out with at 128GB. Its Liquid Retina display makes what you're watching pop with vibrant colors and crisp details, too.

We consider this model to be the best iPad on a budget in our roundup of the best iPads, with Mashable's Samantha Mangino saying, "The iPad (11th generation) doesn't possess the flair of the Pro or Air, but it is a testament that Apple can still produce good entry-level tech. It's currently the lowest-priced iPad, even defeating the Mini."

This deal may not last for long, so grab the 11-inch Apple iPad (A16 chip, 128GB, WiFi) for its lowest price yet at Amazon.

This iPad isn't the only Apple deal that has caught our eye recently. Also at Amazon, you can score the new M4 MacBook Air down to its lowest-ever price.

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 April 29 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 April 29, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Pleasure.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter S appears twice.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter B.

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...

BLISS.

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 April 29

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 yesterday's Wordle.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for April 29 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: Used in baking

• Green: You'd see them at a restaurant

• Blue: You scale these

• Purple: A popular jewel

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: Cooking concoctions

• Green: Seen on a table at a dinner party

• Blue: Things to climb

• Purple: What "Diamond" can refer to

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 #685 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Cooking concoctions: BATTER, DOUGH, MIXTURE, PASTE

• Seen on a table at a dinner party: CANDLESTICK, PITCHER, PLACEMAT, PLATE

• Things to climb: LADDER, MOUNTAIN, ROPE, TREE

• What "Diamond" can refer to: GEMSTONE, INFIELD, RHOMBUS, SUIT

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 April 29

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 yesterday's Connections.

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 preferrined pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 29 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 29 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: I've got you covered!

The words are things with coverings.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are things with a protective case.

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 Shells.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for April 28

• Taco

• Nautilus

• Shells

• Tortoise

• Nucleus

• Walnut

• Armadillo

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 yesterday's Strands.

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 Tuesday, April 29, 2025:

AcrossThe "A" of MoMA

• The answer is Art.

Like steak tartare and carpaccio

• The answer is Raw.

Attire for wizards and judges

• The answer is Robes.

Warm shade of yellowish-orange

• The answer is Amber.

Most populous country in the Caribbean

• The answer is Haiti.

Messy room, so to speak

• The answer is Sty.

DownNoted features of bakeries and candle shops

• The answer is Aromas.

What a magician might pull out of the [circled letters]

• The answer is Rabbit.

"I tawt I taw a puddy tat!" speaker

• The answer is Tweety.

"Go team!"

• The answer is Rah.

___ Lanka

• The answer is Sri.

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 yesterday's Mini Crossword.

SAVE UP TO 54%: As of April 29, Lexar is running a major sale at Amazon with up to 54% off portable SSDs, M.2 drives, SATA SSDs, DDR4 and DDR5 RAM, and microSD cards. Prices start at just $14.49.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lexar Lexar 1TB Play microSDXC Memory Card $78.49 at Amazon
$124.99 Save $46.50 Get Deal

I didn't wake up this morning planning to reorganize my digital life, but Lexar has other ideas. Amazon is hosting a Lexar sale right now that knocks up to 54% off portable SSDs, blazing-fast internal drives, and even RAM and microSD cards. In my opinion, sales like this do not come around often enough for me to behave responsibly.

When I see a 4TB rugged portable SSD sitting under $270, I start mentally moving my entire photo library over before I even hit the checkout button. Some people call it impulse buying. I call it "future-proofing." Same goes for picking up a microSD card the size of my thumbnail that somehow holds an entire backlog of PlayStation downloads.

SEE ALSO: Live your Kawaii gamer dreams with this discounted Logitech POP ICON keyboard and mouse combo

Here is everything on sale, broken into neat sections because life is chaotic enough already.

The best portable SSDs deals

Lexar’s rugged portable SSDs are ready for action for creators, gamers, or anyone who hates the spinning wheel of death.

• Lexar 4TB Armor 700 Portable SSD — $268.49 $366.28 (save $97.79)

• Lexar 2TB Armor 700 Portable SSD — $149.49 $209.99 (save $60.50)

• Lexar 4TB SL500 Portable SSD — $259.49 $349.99 (save $90.50)

• Lexar 2TB SL500 Portable SSD — $138.49 $199.99 (save $61.50)

• Lexar 2TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub — $224.49 $299.99 (save $75.50)

• Lexar 1TB Professional Go Portable SSD w/Hub — $152.49 $199.99 (save $47.50)

The Armor and SL500 series combine speed and durability with IP66 water and dust resistance, perfect for life on the go.

The best M.2 NVMe SSD (Internal) deals

If you're ready to supercharge your PC or PlayStation 5, these M.2 drives bring the heat (and optional heatsinks).

• Lexar 2TB NM1090 PRO SSD — $242.49 $269.99 (save $27.50)

• Lexar 2TB NM1090 w/Heatsink SSD — $259.49 $299.99 (save $40.50)

• Lexar 8TB Play SSD with Heatsink — $674.49 $749.99 (save $75.50)

• Lexar 4TB Play SSD with Heatsink — $269.49 $346.83 (save $77.34)

• Lexar 2TB Play SSD with Heatsink — $149.49 $209.99 (save $60.50)

• Lexar 4TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink — $249.49 $304.99 (save $55.50)

• Lexar 2TB NM790 SSD with Heatsink — $129.49 $164.99 (save $35.50)

These drives offer up to 7400MB/s read speeds, meaning shorter load times and faster boot-ups for games, apps, and everything else.

The best SATA III SSD deals

Cheap. Reliable. Quick upgrades for aging laptops or desktop PCs.

• Lexar 512GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III — $29.49 $61.99 (save $32.50)

• Lexar 256GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III — $18.49 $39.99 (save $21.50)

• Lexar 128GB NS100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III — $14.49 $17.99 (save $3.50)

• Lexar 1.92TB NQ100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III — $93.49 $146.36 (save $52.87)

If you’re tired of slow boot-ups and spinning drives, a SATA SSD is still one of the easiest, cheapest upgrades you can make.

The best DDR4/DDR5 RAM deals

RAM upgrades that won’t wreck your wallet — and will absolutely speed up your multitasking.

• Lexar 32GB (2x16GB) THOR OC DDR5 RAM 6000MT/s — $76.49 $119.99 (save $43.50)

• Lexar 32GB (2x16GB) THOR DDR4 RAM 3200MT/s — $49.49 $79.99 (save $30.50)

• Lexar 48GB (2x24GB) ARES RGB DDR5 RAM 8000MT/s — $194.49 $219.99 (save $25.50)

• Lexar 32GB (2x16GB) ARES RGB DDR5 RAM 6800MT/s — $108.49 $136 (save $27.51)

• Lexar 32GB (2x16GB) ARES RGB DDR4 RAM 3600MT/s — $60.49 $79.99 (save $19.50)

• Lexar 32GB Single DDR4 UDIMM RAM 3200MT/s — $46.49 $55.92 (save $9.43)

More RAM equals faster loading, more Chrome tabs, and smoother gameplay. It’s the upgrade you don’t realize you need until your computer feels twice as fast.

The best microSDXC Memory Cards deals

Perfect for Switch consoles, Steam Decks, action cams, and smartphones.

• Lexar 1TB Play microSDXC Memory Card — $78.49 $124.99 (save $46.50)

• Lexar 512GB Play microSDXC Memory Card — $37.49 $43.99 (save $6.50)

• Lexar 256GB Play microSDXC Memory Card — $22.49 $34.99 (save $12.50)

• Lexar 1TB Play Blue microSDXC Memory Card — $66.49 $89.99 (save $23.50)

• Lexar 512GB Play Blue microSDXC Memory Card — $33.49 $39.99 (save $6.50)

• Lexar 1TB Play microSDXC Memory Card (duplicate deal) — $78.49 $124.99 (save $46.50)

If your handheld gaming setup is gasping for storage space, these Lexar microSD cards are a cheap and speedy fix.

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: Found in the Big Apple

• Green: University teams

• Blue: Award winners

• Purple: Found in France

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: A New York athlete

• Green: NCAA

• Blue: Pitchers to win multiple CY Young Awards

• Purple: Ligue 1 teams

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 #218 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• A New York athlete - GIANT, KNICK, MET, RANGER

• NCAA - ASSOCIATION, ATHLETIC, COLLEGIATE, NATIONAL

• Pitchers to win multiple CY Young Awards - HALLADAY, MADDUX, SCHERZER, SEAVER

• Ligue 1 teams - LENS, LILLE, NICE, STRASBOURG

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 yesterday's Connections.

Connections is a game from the New York Times that challenges you to find the association between words. It sounds easy, but it isn't—Connections categories can be almost anything, and they're usually quite specific. If you need a hand getting the answers, we've got you covered.

TL;DR: With this $30 guitar lessons bundle, you can actually start learning how to strum like Paul McCartney and Clairo.

Coachella just wrapped up, and even if you weren't actually at the music festival, you likely saw clips of your favorite artists like Clairo, Green Day, and Post Malone performing. Did you feel inspired seeing them strum their guitars and croon to the audience? You might not be a famous artist, but you could just pick up the guitar with these lessons.

It's true — you don't even need a live teacher to learn how to play the guitar like Jason White or Paul McCartney. Just grab lifetime access to these 14 online courses for only $29.97 (reg. $2,800) while supplies last.

Strum the guitar like Carlos Santana

No expensive lessons or hard-to-understand guitar books are needed with this guitar lessons course pack. Just make sure you have an acoustic guitar before pulling up the video lessons from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. From there, you could have multiple weeks of learning material (based on a standard goal of practicing the guitar one hour a day).

Are you a complete guitar novice? Start with the basics for an introduction to guitar playing. You can learn how to master foundational skills like guitar theory, notes, chords, strumming, and how to read tablature, which could build the foundation for more advanced techniques.

Once you're comfortable with the basics, you can dive into modules for playing jazz, blues, and even childhood tunes on your guitar. Want to challenge yourself? Skip ahead to the ear training lessons, which can teach you how to listen to songs like "Bags," "Circles," and Here Comes the Sun," and recognize chord progressions to replicate them on your guitar.

Have you ever wanted to write a song? This package comes with a songwriting course in case you've ever dreamt of playing on the big stage one day. You could learn how greats like Bob Dylan and The Beatles wrote their iconic hits and write your very own single (or album).

Learn how to strum like your favorite artists by grabbing this 14-course guitar lessons bundle for just $29.97 while inventory is still available. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dan Dresnok The Complete Beginner to Expert Guitar Lessons Bundle $29.97
$2,800 Save $2,770.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: Replace Dropbox with a FolderFort 2TB lifetime subscription on sale for $229.99 (reg. $749). 

Cloud storage is so useful to have on hand, but a lot of the big platforms like Dropbox have switched over to a monthly subscription model. It feels cheap at first, but once you start adding the numbers up, it's not a great deal. If you want a cheaper alternative, FolderFort has a 2TB lifetime subscription on sale for $229.99 (reg. $749). 

A replacement for Dropbox has arrived

Unlike some cloud platforms that charge extra for collaboration, FolderFort includes unlimited users and workspaces as part of your lifetime plan. That means you can add friends, colleagues, or family members to a folder or workspace without worrying about additional fees. You can even send them their own 1GB of personal storage for free, which makes it a great option for group projects, remote work, or just sharing vacation photos with the whole family.

Because FolderFort is entirely browser-based, you don’t need to install any special software to get started. Just log in from any modern browser and start uploading. The interface is clean and intuitive, so you don’t have to be a tech expert to organize your files, create shareable links, or manage permissions. Whether you're working from a phone, tablet, or computer, your files are always easy to access.

If you ever need more than 2TB, upgrades are simple and seamless. But for most users, the included space is more than enough to back up photos, videos, documents, and more for years to come. Files are stored securely using BackBlaze encryption, which means they’re protected from unauthorized access the moment you upload them.

Instead of spending money every month to rent space in the cloud, FolderFort gives you a fast, flexible, and secure storage solution you actually own.

Get a FolderFort 2TB lifetime subscription on sale for $229.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: FolderFort FolderFort 2TB Cloud Storage Pro Plan: Lifetime Subscription $229.99
$749 Save $519.01 Get Deal

TL;DR: Go on an adventure with a pair of Night Vision Binoculars on sale for $119.99 (Reg. $297) through June 1. 

The right tools can turn a regular camping trip into a full excursion into the wild. Regular binoculars are fun, but they aren't much use when the sun sets. If you want to keep the adventure going, check out these Double Barrel Night Vision Binoculars. 

They can see in total darkness, record your view on video, and magnify your vision. They're also on sale for $104.97 (reg. $297), but we're already running out of stock. 

Night vision for camping, fishing, and more

Upgrade your nighttime viewing with the Double Barrel Digital Night Vision Binoculars, designed to deliver clear, long-range visibility even in total darkness. These high-performance night vision binoculars use a powerful 3W infrared LED to illuminate objects up to 300 meters away, giving you reliable clarity during evening hikes, wildlife observation, surveillance, or security tasks. The built-in TFT widescreen display offers a sharp, customizable viewing experience, letting you adjust the focus to get the clearest and most detailed image possible.

Whether you're spotting nocturnal animals or navigating dark terrain, the 4x zoom function brings faraway subjects into crisp view. These binoculars also go beyond passive viewing by allowing you to document everything you see. You can take high-resolution photos and record videos with ease, making it an ideal choice for capturing night scenes or evidence. The included 32GB TF card gives you plenty of space to store your footage, and transferring data is quick and easy using the built-in micro USB connection.

Built for durability and convenience, the Double Barrel Digital Night Vision Binoculars come with an IP56 waterproof rating, which means they’re ready to handle rain, moisture, and rugged conditions. The lightweight, ergonomic design makes them comfortable to use for extended periods, and an automatic shutdown feature helps preserve battery life during long nights in the field.

June 1 at 11:59 p.m. PT is the deadline to get a pair of Double Barrel Night Vision Binoculars on sale for $119.

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Mesay Double Barrel 720p Digital Night Vision Binoculars $119.97
$297.99 Save $178.02 Get Deal