Technology

Pips is the newest game in the New York Times catalogue. Released in August 2025, the new game puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.

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

How to play Pips

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

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for September 11, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for September 11, 2025 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Sept. 11 Pips

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

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

Number (5): Everything in this space must add to 5. The answer is 1-5, placed vertically, 0-6, placed horizontally.

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

Medium difficulty hints, answers for Sept. 11 Pips

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

Number (14): Everything in this space must add to 14. The answer is 3-4, placed horizontally; 5-5, placed horizontally.

Number (15): Everything in this space must add to 15. The answer is 6-6, placed horizontally; 3-2, placed vertically.

Number (9): Everything in this space must add to 9. The answer is 4-4, placed vertically; 5-6, placed vertically.

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

Number (2): Everything in this space must add to 2. The answer is 3-2, placed vertically; 3-5, placed vertically.

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

Hard difficulty hints, answers for Sept. 11 Pips

Equal (4): Everything in this purple space must be equal to 4. The answer is 4-4, placed horizontally.

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

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

Number (6): Everything in this space must add to 6. The answer is 1-0, placed vertically; 5-2, placed horizontally.

Equal (2): Everything in this space must be equal to 2. The answer is 5-2, placed horizontally; 2-2, placed vertically; 2-6, placed vertically.

Number (5): Everything in this green space must add to 5. The answer is 5-3, placed vertically; 2-3, placed vertically.

Number (0): Everything in this space must add to 0. The answer is 1-0, placed vertically; 3-0, placed horizontally; 0-6, placed vertically.

Equal (3): Everything in this light blue space must be equal to 3. The answer is 3-0, placed horizontally; 4-3, placed vertically; 2-3, placed vertically; 3-6, placed horizontally; 3-3, placed horizontally.

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

Number (24): Everything in this space must add to 5. The answer is 3-6, placed horizontally; 0-6, placed vertically; 1-6, placed vertically; 2-6, placed vertically.

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

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

As a long-time Pixel owner, last year’s release took me by surprise. I didn’t think the series needed a refresh, but I was quickly won over. This year, the Google Pixel 10 is more of the same, and some critical upgrades make me feel like I don’t need the Pro version anymore.

Stephen Colbert has reacted to the death of Charlie Kirk, a right-wing influencer with tens of millions of social media followers who was shot and killed during an event at a college campus in Utah. Kirk was an ally of President Trump and the founder of Turning Point USA, a movement that aimed to spread right-wing viewpoints across school campuses.

"After our scripts for tonight's show were finished this afternoon, we here at The Late Show learned that Charlie Kirk, a prominent right-wing activist, was killed at a speaking engagement in Utah," says Colbert in the clip above, which preceded the main show.

"Our condolences go out to his family and all his loved ones. I'm old enough to personally remember the political violence of the 1960s, and I hope it is obvious to everyone in America that political violence does not solve any of our political differences. Political violence only leads to more political violence. And I pray with all my heart that this is the aberrant action of a mad man, and not a sign of things to come."

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.

SEE ALSO: NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for September 11, 2025 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: Sport-specific tools and equipment

• Green: Working out

• Blue: College football's best

• Purple: Same letters, different words

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: Gymnastics apparatus

• Green: Exercises

• Blue: Heisman trophy winners

• Purple: Anagrams of NBA 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 #353 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Gymnastics apparatus - BARS, BEAM, FLOOR, VAULT

• Exercises - BURPEE, CRUNCH, LUNGE, SQUAT

• Heisman trophy winners - BURROW, BUSH, CROUCH, TEBOW

• Anagrams of NBA teams - PARROTS, RECAPS, SENT, SHORTEN

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.

SAVE OVER $200: As of Sept. 11, the TCL 75-Inch QM8K QD-Mini LED 4K TV is on sale for $1,797.99 at Amazon. That's 10% off its list price of $1,999.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 75-Inch Class QM8K Series QD-Mini LED 4K UHD TV $1,797.99 at Amazon
$1,999.99 Save $202 Get Deal

With the new football season up and running and some exciting shows dropping on streaming services, it's a great time to be camped out on your couch enjoying it all on a stunning TV. If you've been looking to upgrade your screen, there are some discounts available at the moment that are worth a look, including this deal on the TCL 75-Inch QM8K QD-Mini LED 4K TV at Amazon.

The TCL 75-Inch QM8K QD-Mini LED 4K TV usually goes for $1,999.99, but Amazon has slashed over $200 off its price and dropped it to $1,797.99 for a limited time. For those looking to go for a bigger display, this TV delivers size and style.

SEE ALSO: Score the 65-inch LG evo AI TV for its lowest price yet

TCL's 75-Inch QM8K TV boasts a QD-Mini LED display with 4K resolution, offering vibrant colors and detail that allows you to enjoy a crystal clear picture on its massive 75-inch screen. And with a 144Hz refresh rate, the picture will always come across smooth. On top of that, you'll enjoy excellent sound quality thanks to Audio by Bang & Olufsen and Dolby Atmos, both of which help you feel immersed in what you're watching.

Since it's a Google Smart TV, watching your favorite shows and films on streaming services comes easily as you can house all of your favorite apps in one place.

If you've been looking for an upgrade, this deal on the TCL 75-Inch QM8K QD-Mini LED 4K TV at Amazon is worth considering. And if you've been hoping to get a smaller TV instead, you can also score a great deal on Hisense's 55-inch E6 QLED 4K Fire TV at Amazon right now.

SAVE $70: As of Sept. 11, the Amazon Fire TV 40-inch 2-Series is on sale for $179.99 at Amazon. That's a 28% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV 40-Inch 2-Series $179.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $70 Get Deal

Cozy season is upon us, so we suggest upgrading your TV in time for Gilmore Girls rewatches and horror movie marathons.

Not sure what to go for? The Amazon Fire TV 2-Series is on sale at Amazon, and it's back down to its lowest price this year. As of Sept. 11, you can pick up the 40-inch model for $179.99 on Amazon, saving $70 on list price.

SEE ALSO: Score the 65-inch LG evo AI TV for its lowest price yet

For a low price, you're getting a whole lot with this TV. Like most Amazon devices, it has built-in Alexa voice control. Not only can you use this to control some of your other smart home devices, such as robot vacuums and Bluetooth speakers, but you can also use it to search through all your streaming platforms at once.

It also has strong visuals, so you can enjoy an HD 1080p resolution with support for HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Audio. Meaning all your shows, movies, and gaming experiences are the highest quality. For entertainment, the TV runs on Amazon's Fire OS, so you have access to popular streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more. If you've not used it before, this interface is simple and really easy to operate.

The TV also comes with two standard HDMI inputs and one ARC input, making it easy to connect gaming devices. And if you have more than one Fire TV, all of your movies and shows will stay in sync across devices.

Get this Fire TV deal from Amazon now.

SAVE $50: As of Sept. 11, the Apple iPad 11-inch is on sale for $299 at Amazon. That's a 14% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad (11-Inch) $299 at Amazon
$349 Save $50 Get Deal

If you're in need of a tablet upgrade and you're already committed to the Apple ecosystem (iPhone, AirPods, etc.), why not jump all the way in and invest in an iPad? You know it makes sense.

As of Sept. 11, the iPad 11-inch is on sale for $299 at Amazon. This $50 off deal is valid across all colorways, so you can choose from blue, pink, silver, or yellow. That's not the case with a lot of Apple deals right now, so we can't say for sure how long this deal will last.

SEE ALSO: Apple AirPods Pro 3 Live Translation meme bluntly deciphers snarky subtext

This is an incredibly efficient and fast iPad thanks to its A16 chip. This provides a smooth performance whether you’re gaming, editing photos, or just multitasking through your day. Lagging and slow displays are a thing of the past.

It's a giveaway in the name, but the screen has an 11-inch Liquid Retina display. This makes everything look incredibly sharp and bright, whether you’re watching movies, scrolling TikToks, or gaming. The cameras are impressive, too. The 12MP Ultra Wide front camera is ideal for video calls with Center Stage keeping you perfectly in frame, while the 12MP Wide back camera with True Tone flash is great for photos, document scanning, and shooting 4K video.

And it's compatible with many Apple accessories. Attach the magic keyboard to turn your iPad into work mode, or use the Apple Pencil Pro to create, draw, or write.

Get this iPad deal from Amazon before it sells out.

What does it say about my brain that my first thought upon seeing the new iPhone 17 Pro was — is that Life of a Showgirl orange? Whatever brain cell triggered that thought is one I share with the rest of the internet. Is it a coincidence that of the three new iPhone 17 Pro colors, one of them is the same shade of orange that Taylor Swift is claiming for her latest album?

On Sept. 9, Apple released its latest iPhone lineup, including the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro. The internet's first reaction to the new iPhones? They're ugly. But the second was to make the connection between The Life of a Showgirl and its orange era with the new iPhone 17 Pro in Cosmic Orange.

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Some online are saying the new iPhone 17 Pro is "so Taylor-coded." On TikTok, user @shreyakolluri noted that Apple must have a Swiftie iPhone designer because the color lines up too perfectly with the orange hue of Swift's new album. However, others don't see it. In reply to ThePopTingz's tweet, one user asked, "What's the connection of Taylor Swift's album to the Apple event?"

Some sleuthing Swifties went so far as to point out that Swift's albums often coincide with Apple's iPhone drops, and iPhones have a history of falling into Swift's color palettes.

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But is there actually a connection between Apple and Swift? Unfortunately for the Swifties — no. Swift has collaborated with companies including TikTok, Spotify, Tumblr, and Amazon Prime Video, but not Apple.

In fact, Swift clashed with Apple in 2015. Ten years ago, Swift took to Tumblr to pen an open letter to Apple about why she wouldn't be releasing her album 1989 on their platform. Her decision was made after Apple offered a free three-month trial of Apple Music to new subscribers and said that during this period, they would not be paying royalties to artists and producers. That letter resulted in Apple reversing its decision and paying artists.

But it's no surprise that Swifties raised a brow at the color-coordinated coincidence. Swift is known for her pre-album rollouts, which usually involve a whirlwind of easter eggs and brand collabs. Since the announcement of her forthcoming album, The Life of a Showgirl, on her fiancé Travis Kelce's podcast New Heights, which he hosts with his brother Jason Kelce, fans have been speculating what's to come in this era. What is confirmed? Orange is the signature color for The Life of a Showgirl.

Opens in a new window Credit: Target 'The Life of a Showgirl' by Taylor Swift Vinyl $34.99 at Target
Pre-order Here

On the New Heights podcast, Jason asked Swift why she picked orange for this album, to which she replied that it "feels like, kind of energetically, how my life has felt. And this album is about what was going on behind the scenes in my inner life during this tour, which was so exuberant and electric and vibrant.”

And while Apple didn't provide any background on why they chose Cosmic Orange for their latest iPhone, it's good timing on their part. Orange is on the rise.

If you preorder the iPhone 17 Pro now, it will arrive in time for The Life of a Showgirl, which releases on Oct. 3.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 17 Pro $1,099 at Apple
From $1,099 Pre-order Here

Good days don't always come, so when you find one, maybe it's worth celebrating. That seems to be the ethos of a new trend on TikTok, at least.

It's difficult to describe this trend. There are no set rules to it. There isn't a dance. No memeable catchphrase. It's not attached to a single viral song or sound. And there's no argument over it. It's just posting your good day.

SEE ALSO: Where the 'I have one daughter' TikTok trend came from

That's not to say there's no formula. As far as I can tell, it typically involves including a Yacht Rock-ish song (think Steely Dan), a slideshow of images depicting your good day, and straightforward language describing said pleasant day. It's kind of a TikTok version of the old "Dudes Rock" memes from pre-X Twitter — where you celebrate simple or silly things that are innocent in lieu of the often-toxic boys will be boys.

Here's one about golfing and bowling.

Here's a more food-focused post.

And here's a host of others that are all over the map.

You can see the simplicity in the trend. You just post about your day, typically focusing on life's small pleasantries. Maybe you had a cold beer. Maybe you played a round of golf. Maybe you saw a couple of old pals. Either way you look at it, it's a Dudes Rock small win. (Not for nothing, let it be known that the "dudes" in Dudes Rock in gender neutral. We can all enjoy Steely Dan and a back porch.)

Granted, this trend intersects with my personal interests, but it is spreading. It's not totally clear where it originated, but it seems the account @burgermonster21 is at the center of the trend. Pretty much every post from the account is of that ilk.

It's not the most exciting or strange trend TikTok has produced, but it certainly feels like a good idea to celebrate daily, small wins. After all, few things are better than a cold beverage and a good plate of food.

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

The NFL has come back with a bang. The round round of fixtures delivered everything we wanted, but we're greedy for more.

There are a number of really interesting matchups in the second round, including Packers vs. Commanders. Both teams won their first games of the new season, so something has got to give here. Fans will be eager to see whether the Green Bay Packers can continue to impress after their stunning victory over the Detroit Lions in Round 1.

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

When is Packers vs. Commanders?

Packers vs. Commanders in the NFL starts at 8:15 p.m. BST on Sept. 11. This game takes place at Lambeau Field.

How to watch Packers vs. Commanders for free

Packers vs. Commanders in the NFL is available to live stream for free on 7Plus.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

7Plus is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can unblock 7Plus from anywhere in the world.

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

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

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

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

4. Visit 7Plus

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

Opens in a new window Credit: IPVanish IPVanish (1-Month Plan) $12.99 at IPVanish (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

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

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

What is the best VPN for 7Plus?

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

• 3,100 servers in 145 locations including Australia

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

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

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Unlimited simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: The 10 best TV shows of 2025 (so far), and where to stream them

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

Mashable's entertainment team has scoured the streaming services to highlight the most buzzed-about releases of the week and ranked them from worst to best — or least worth your time to most watchable. Whether you're hankering for side-splitting laughs, spine-tingling chills, heart-warming stories, or pulse-pounding action, we've got something just for you.

9. Love Is Blind: France, Season 1, and Brazil, Season 5

Love Is Blind has so many international iterations now it's hard to keep up. But the concept remains the same: Strangers looking for love enter an experiment in which they date in pods without seeing each other. If they want to meet IRL, they must propose, committing to further stages of the experiment like a holiday "pre-honeymoon period," moving in together, meeting the family, and getting hitched in the space of about six weeks. Next up is Brazil's fifth season and the first ever season of Love Is Blind: France. You'll start off vaguely interested and end up hooked — just like the experiment. — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

How to watch: Love Is Blind: Brazil, Season 5, and Love Is Blind: France, Season 1, premiere Sept. 10 on Netflix, with new episodes weekly.

9. The Tech Bro Murders

Silicon Valley is a place of great tech, greater wealth, and some hidden dangers. ID's new weekly true crime series The Tech Bro Murders digs into this dark side. The six-part series delivers shocking murder cases from the early waves of the tech boom, focusing on sex, greed, and envy led to homicide.

Hankering for a new true-crime show to follow? Want a probing look into the highs and lows of Silicon Valley? Retired Palo Alto PD detective Sandra Brown will be your host on this gnarly look at crime and tech bro culture. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: The Tech Bro Murders premieres Sept. 9 at 10/9c on ID, then HBO Max, with new episodes weekly.

Don’t miss out on our latest stories: Add Mashable as a trusted news source in Google.

7. AKA Charlie Sheen

Netflix is taking us all back to the rise and fall of Charlie Sheen, an American movie star turned Emmy-nominated Two and a Half Men lead turned tabloid cover boy. Erratic behavior led to Sheen getting booted from the hit sitcom and baffling longtime fans and even friends. Now, in this Netflix documentary, Sheen sits down with a camera crew to tell his story and, if not clear his name, at least unburden his soul. But fascinatingly, he's not the only interview here. His former co-star John Cryer, his ex-wife Denise Richards, his childhood friend Sean Penn, and the notorious madame Heidi Fleiss will weigh in too. — K.P.

Starring: Charlie Sheen, Denise Richards, Heidi Fleiss, Jon Cryer, Sean Penn, Ramon Estevez, Brooke Mueller, Chris Tucker, and Lola Sheen

How to watch: AKA Charlie Sheen debuts on Netflix on Sept. 10.

6. The Girlfriend

Robin Wright and Olivia Cooke lead Prime Video's new drama, a six-part series that starts as an unhinged meeting-the-parents experience and careens into something else. Based on Michelle Frances' novel and adapted by Naomi Sheldon and Gabbie Asher, The Girlfriend sees Wright as Laura, a gallerist whose luxurious London life becomes unsettled when she meets her son Daniel's (Laurie Davidson) new partner, Cherry (Cooke). To say it's tense is an understatement, as Laura's uncomfortably close relationship with her son means she immediately dislikes Cherry and starts digging. However, Cherry has her own story. The show pivots back and forth between perspectives, following Cherry's drive to keep up appearances and unlocking a compelling power dynamic between the two — and Wright and Cooke are brilliant to watch together. Expect one rollercoaster of a trip to Spain, a fabulous Tanya Moodie as Laura's best friend, and simmering, uh, Oedipal energy. — S.C.

Starring: Robin Wright, Olivia Cooke, Tanya Moodie, Laurie Davidson, Waleed Zuaiter, Shalom Brune-Franklin, Karen Henthorn, Anna Chancellor, Leo Suter, and Francesca Corney

How to watch: The Girlfriend is now streaming on Prime Video.

5. Warfare

After conjuring up a nightmarish vision of a possible future conflict with last year's Civil War, director Alex Garland's latest film, Warfare, takes viewers back to the frontlines of a very real, not-so-distant fight — the Iraq War, circa 2006. It's both a tribute to the bravery shown in the face of battle by a group of young Navy SEALs and a brutal slog that immerses audiences into the gritty reality of war, viscera and all. Co-written and co-directed by Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza, an Iraq War veteran, Warfare follows a group of Navy SEALs played by a compelling cast.

War is hell, and if you had any other such notions, Warfare should help set the record straight. But is that all there is? Maybe I missed some meaning behind the nerve-shattering brutality. Warfare might be so honest as to work as an anti-recruitment film, combating the polished ads the armed forces like to run during sports broadcasts. While it's admirable Mendoza and Garland stitch together this agonizing portrait of the perils of war, its demands on young soldiers, and the merciless reality of combat, I was unsure how to feel about it. It doesn't deliver the rah-rah patriotic highs nor does it critique the Iraq War that led them to that day. After the film ends, there's behind-the-scenes footage of Mendoza and Garland with many of the veterans who survived the ordeal, revisiting their past in a recreated set hundreds of miles away from where they almost met their end. Maybe there can be healing in revisiting the not-too-distant past for these vets, but Warfare doesn't offer the same catharsis for civilian viewers.* — Monica Castillo, Contributing Writer

Starring: D'Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Will Poulter, Cosmo Jarvis, Kit Connor, Finn Bennett, Joseph Quinn, Charles Melton, Noah Centineo, and Michael Gandolfini

How to watch: Warfare is streaming on HBO Max from Sept. 12.

4. Sister Midnight

Writer/director Karan Kandhari's wild debut Sister Midnight is a must-see for the weirdos (hi). Radhika Apte gives a tremendous, unhinged performance as small-town bride Uma, whose arranged marriage to Gopal (Ashok Pathak) reaches levels of weird you could only dream of. Set in Mumbai, Sister Midnight is "a film as strange, hilarious, and unpredictable as its protagonist," as I wrote in my review. The twists are uncanny, the long-simmering thirsts bestial, and the score, by Interpol's Paul Banks, is everything. — S.C.

Starring: Radhika Apte, Ashok Pathak, Chhaya Kadam, and Smita Tambe

How to watch: Sister Midnight is now available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.

3. Only Murders in the Building, Season 5

Charles (Steve Martin), Oliver (Martin Short), and Mabel (Selena Gomez) are back on the case in Only Murders in the Building Season 5. This time around, they're investigating the death of doorman Lester (Teddy Coluca), who passed away in the Season 4 finale. Their sleuthing leads them down a path of Staten Island mobsters, high-stakes casino games, and threatening billionaires, played by Renée Zellweger, Christoph Waltz, and Logan Lerman. Will our trio get to the bottom of the case, or have they played their last hand? The mystery at the heart of Only Murders Season 5 tends towards the overly convoluted.

However, what it lacks on the case front, it makes up for with the constantly delightful dynamic between Charles, Oliver, and Mabel — as well as the new bombshell discoveries they make about the Arconia this season. As I wrote in my Season 5 review, "Only Murders' mysteries may not be hitting the same as they did in the first season, but the show's team of amateur detectives and the building they live in are the TV gift that keeps on giving." — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

Starring: Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez, Michael Cyril Creighton, Teddy Coluca, Christoph Waltz, Renée Zellweger, Logan Lerman, Téa Leoni, Bobby Cannavale, Beanie Feldstein, Jermaine Fowler, Keegan-Michael Key, Dianne Wiest, Meryl Streep, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Richard Kind, and Nathan Lane

How to watch: The first three episodes of Only Murders in the Building, Season 5, are now streaming on Hulu, with new episodes every Tuesday.

2. Weapons

Barbarian writer/director Zach Cregger's new horror movie has proved popular with audiences and critics alike, racking up an impressive $250 million+ at the global box office and a swathe of positive reviews and reactions. It probably helps that the movie's starting point is so intriguing: An entire class of school children, with the exception of one boy, goes missing on the same night at the exact same time, running out of their homes into the darkness and not coming back.

"The last thing I ever want to do is overhype a movie, but just trust me when I say: You are not ready for Weapons," wrote Mashable's Belen Edwards in her review. "I don't mean that in a 'This is the scariest horror movie you'll ever see!' way, although writer-director Zach Cregger stirs up plenty of frights that had my whole theater hollering. Instead, I mean it more in the sense that Weapons is a wonderfully surprising film. Whatever you think it's going to throw at you, chances are you aren't prepared for what it actually lobs your way." — Sam Haysom, Deputy UK Editor

Starring: Julia Garner, Josh Brolin, Alden Ehrenreich, Benedict Wong, Austin Abrams, Amy Madigan, Cary Christopher, June Diane Raphael, Toby Huss, Sara Paxton, Justin Long

How to watch: Weapons is now available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.

1. Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television

"If you're telling Black stories then you need to have Black people tell their own. It's about that legacy." Issa Rae's right with this statement, leading the writer/producer's new two-part HBO documentary, Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television, which explores the history of Black representation on TV — and behind the scenes in the industry itself.

Directed and produced by Giselle Bailey and Phil Bertelsen, the doc takes a look through the decades at the Black artists, writers, and showrunners who transformed the predominantly white TV industry, featuring interviews with game-changing icons like Shonda Rhimes, Oprah Winfrey, Tracee Ellis Ross, Ava DuVernay, and more. The first part offers a historical lens while the second part moves toward the present and future, where Black creators, building on that legacy, are championing the power of Black storytelling and media ownership. It's a must-watch. — S.C.

How to watch: Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television is now streaming on HBO Max.

(*) indicates a blurb originally comes from another list.

TL;DR: Master piano from the comfort of your home with this lifetime subscription to Skoove Premium Piano Lessons, now just $109.97 (reg. $299.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: Skoove Skoove Premium Piano Lessons: Lifetime Subscription $109.97
$299.99 Save $190.02 Get Deal

Want to finally cross “learn to play piano” off your bucket list? That can easily be done with Skoove Premium Piano Lessons — and all you’ll need is a keyboard or piano, and a tablet, laptop, or smartphone to get started.

Right now, you can secure a lifetime subscription to these interactive piano lessons for just $109.97 (reg. $299.99) and learn at your own pace.

Learn piano at your own pace with real-time AI feedback

Gone are the days of boring traditional piano lessons. Skoove Premium Piano brings them right to your home, allowing you to learn at your own pace while playing the hits with AI-powered instruction. Simply grab your piano or keyboard and open Skoove on your favorite device.

There are over one million people already taking advantage of this convenient instruction method, which allows you to hop in with any skill level — from total beginner to advanced. The AI technology allows Skoove to listen to what you’re playing, recognize your notes, and provide real-time feedback so you can improve as you go.

SEE ALSO: Is Google set to make AI Mode the default search experience? If it does, the internet may never be the same.

You can learn while playing pop hits from Adele or John Legend, or timeless classics from Beethoven. There are over 400 interactive lessons and thousands of instructional videos at your fingertips, with new ones added monthly. And if you ever have questions, there’s one-on-one support available from music instructors as needed.

Discover a new hobby with this lifetime subscription to Skoove Premium Piano Lessons, on sale now for just $109.97 (reg. $299.99).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Save even more time getting things done with this platform that lets you access multiple AI models in one place with this lifetime subscription to 1min.AI’s Advanced Business Plan, now only $99.99 (reg. $540).

Opens in a new window Credit: 1minAI 1min.AI Advanced Business Plan Lifetime Subscription $99.99
$540 Save $440.01 Get Deal

Whether you’re well-versed in all the different AI models or you’re just learning how to use ChatGPT, 1min.AI makes it easy to put this technology to work. 1min.AI lets you streamline your workflow, inputting your request in one place and enjoying the fruits of multiple AI models without ever having to switch tabs.

Right now, a lifetime subscription to 1min.AI’s Advanced Business Plan can be yours for just $99.99 (reg. $540).

Work smarter, not harder, with this all-in-one AI hub

Technology doesn’t have to give you a headache. If you’re tired of trying to keep up with which AI models work better for different tasks, let 1min.AI consolidate the top ones for you. Access ChatGPT, Gemini, Midjourney, Mistral, and more, all in one handy tool — no need to switch tabs.

If you’re using different AI platforms for work tasks or personal requests — from creating images to writing social media content or even optimizing your website — let 1min.AI handle the request and take care of it with the best AI model available. Be sure to review the output when it’s done, as light editing may still be needed.

SEE ALSO: Google's AI, Gemini, is 'high risk' for kids and teens, safety report finds

This lifetime subscription gives you permanent access to the Advanced Business Plan. That means you’ll have an unlimited prompt library, unlimited storage, and unlimited brand voice options.

This plan gives you 4,000,000 credits monthly, which is enough to write 1,112,500 words per month, research up to 5,933 SEO keywords per month, generate up to 1,186 images per month, and create up to 37 videos per month. Need more credits? It’s easy to get them for free by using the web app, referring a friend, or leaving a review.

Simplify the AI process with this lifetime subscription to 1min.AI’s Advanced Business Plan, now only $99.99 (reg. $540).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

SAVE $50: As of Sept. 11, the Beats Pill speaker is on sale for $99.95 at Amazon. That's a saving of 34% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Pill $99.95 at Amazon
$149.95 Save $50.00 Get Deal

The Beats Pill speaker is back on sale for a limited time. As of Sept. 11, the Beats Pill is on sale for $99.95 at Amazon, down from the list price of $149.95. This deal is specific to the Beats Pill x Kim Kardashian colors: dark gray and light gray. However, you can pick up the red color for $119.95, and the gold and black colors for $129.95.

Despite its small size, this speaker has a seriously powerful sound. As is the case with all Beats products, this model is robust and packs a serious audio punch. This is thanks to the bigger, bespoke racetrack woofer displacing 90% more air volume, meaning you get a much deeper, fuller bass.

SEE ALSO: The 7 best party speakers, tested for sound, portability, and fun

This speaker also has IP67 water resistance, so it's protected from accidental splashes, perfect for listening by the beach or pool. For portable listening, the new 24-hour battery life will keep you going all day long and can even be used to charge your phone or other devices through a USB-C cable.

You can also pair two Beats Pill speakers at once, for twice the sound experience. Just use the Amplify or Stereo mode and enjoy the powerful sound when you really want to crank it.

Get this Beats deal from Amazon now.

SAVE $1000: As of Sept. 11, the Bluetti Solar Generator Apex 300 is on sale for $1,999 at Amazon. That's $1,000 off thanks to an on-page coupon.

Opens in a new window Credit: BLUETTI Bluetti Solar Generator Apex 300 $1,999 at Amazon
$2,999 Save $1,000 Get Deal

A power station is always good to have on hand, especially when you can pick one up with a heavy discount. As of Sept. 11, you can save $1,000 on the Bluetti Solar Generator Apex 300 with a stunning on-page coupon.

The Bluetti Solar Generator Apex 300 is listed for $2,999 at Amazon, but for a limited time, there's a $1,000 off voucher on site. Simply tick the orange coupon box, and you'll see the discount applied when you checkout. That brings the price down to $1,999, the lowest on record for this new model.

SEE ALSO: The Jackery Explorer 300 portable power station with a 100W solar panel is on sale at Amazon for under $300

It's a powerhouse of a generator, with a 2,764.8Wh capacity and 3,840W output, keeping homes, RVs, and off-grid setups running. You can even connect teo or three units together for 5.5–8.3kWh, or expand up to 58kWh with the B300K. It has six AC outputs that can handle heavy powering, so things like RV ovens and air conditioners can all run smoothly.

For charging, it supports up to 2,400W solar input with dual MPPT, and can hit up to 80% in just 40 minutes when running at full power. Bluetti’s second-gen LiFePO4 battery means it’s good for over 6,000 cycles, which is about 17 years of use. It's obviously not an impulse buy, but you're getting good value for money considering the lifespan.

Get this great power station deal from Amazon.

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

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

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

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025:

AcrossGeorge Carlin, for the first episode of "Saturday Night Live"

• The answer is Host.

Sulky-looking

• The answer is Pouty.

Request for a high-five

• The answer is Up top.

Subway system

• The answer is Metro.

Opponent of Cuomo and Mamdani in the N.Y.C. mayoral race

• The answer is Adams.

DownCrossed one's fingers

• The answer is Hoped.

"Straight ___ Compton"

• The answer is Outta.

Bad time to head outside with a tall metal rod

• The answer is Storm.

What autocorrect corrects

• The answer is Typos.

Sneaker named for a big cat

• The answer is Puma.

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 $200: As of Sept. 11, the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air M4 is on sale for $1,199 at Amazon. That's $200 off list price and the lowest-ever price for this model.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 15-inch Apple MacBook Air M4 $1,199 at Amazon
$1,399 Save $200 Get Deal

Our favorite MacBook deal of 2025 looks like it's on the way out. The MacBook Air M4 has been $200 off since just after Prime Day, but that deal is apparently vanishing before our eyes. Maybe it's because Apple has launched a number of new products in its 2025 Apple Event. Or maybe it's because these MacBooks have been selling so well during this hectic back-to-school season. We're honestly not sure.

What we do know is that you can still get the record-low price on the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air M4, but you've got to opt for a specific model to secure this saving. As of Sept. 11, the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air M4 is on sale for $1,199 at Amazon. The $200 discount is only available on the MacBook Air with 16GB of Unified Memory and 512GB SSD in starlight.

Given that the price has increased for all other 15-inch configurations and every 13-inch model, we don't expect this low price to last long.

SEE ALSO: Buy a pair of Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE, get a free Galaxy SmartTag 2

In our review of the 15-inch MacBook Air M4, Stan Shroeder said it's "powerful, silent, and comes with a couple of much-needed upgrades." The MacBook Air M4 also claimed top spot in our roundup of the best MacBooks. When it comes to cost, Dylan Haas praised the price point: "When most tech device prices are going up, it's nice to see a price decrease from a large company like Apple. This doesn't happen often, so take advantage of the deal while you can." Need we say more?

Save $200 on the Apple MacBook Air M4 before this record-low price bids farewell.

Apple unveiled a slew of new devices this week, from the iPhone 17 to the Watch Series 11. Among them was the AirPods Pro 3, offering the first significant update to Apple's earbuds in years. Priced at $249, the AirPods Pro 3 boasts foam ear tips and improved active noise control, as well as health and fitness features such as heart rate monitoring.

The AirPods Pro 3 also adds Live Translation, powered by Apple Intelligence. This feature enables the AirPods Pro 3 to listen to audio and translate it into different languages, offering realtime audio translations as well as displaying them on a phone. 

SEE ALSO: Apple AirPods Pro 3 are officially here, bringing improved battery life and heart rate monitoring

"It doesn't just translate individual words," Kate Bergeron, Apple's vice president of hardware engineering, said during Tuesday's presentation. "The meaning of each phrase is translated for you. When you need to talk, just speak naturally."

Live Translation will support English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish at launch, with more languages to be added later this year. However, some people are already fantasising about other, less likely vernacular that the AirPods Pro 3 may be able to decipher. Social media users have created a meme in the wake of Apple's announcement, editing an image of the AirPods Pro 3 to show its Live Translation bluntly interpreting everything from corporate speak to real estate agents' spiels.

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Apple's AirPods Pro 3 will be available from Sept. 19.

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

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

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

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

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

A small bird.

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

QUAIL

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Malicious.

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

CATTY

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Unusual.

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

DILLY

Hurdle Word 4 hint

To tweak.

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

AMEND

Final Hurdle hint

A composition.

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

ETUDE

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

Wondering why the moon looks a little smaller tonight? That's because we've just hit day 19 of the lunar cycle.

The lunar cycle a series of eight unique phases of the moon's visibility. The whole cycle takes about 29.5 days, according to NASA, and these different phases happen as the Sun lights up different parts of the moon whilst it orbits Earth. 

Let's find out what's happening with the moon tonight, Sept. 11.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Thursday, Sept. 11, the moon phase is Waning Gibbous, and it is 81% lit up to us on Earth, according to NASA's Daily Moon Observation.

There's lots to see tonight when you look up. Without any visual aids, enjoy a glimpse of the Oceanus Procellarum, the Mare Vaporum, and the Mare Tranquillitatis.

If you have binoculars, you'll also see the Grimaldi Basin, Posidonius Crater, and the Mare Frigoris. Add a telescope to your line up and you'll see the Reiner Gamma, Apollo 16, and the Caucasus Mountains.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will be on Oct. 6. The last full moon was on Sept. 7.

What are moon phases?

According to NASA, moon phases are caused by the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, which changes the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases are how the moon looks from Earth as it goes around us. We always see the same side of the moon, but how much of it is lit up by the Sun changes depending on where it is in its orbit. This is how we get full moons, half moons, and moons that appear completely invisible. There are eight main moon phases, and they follow a repeating cycle:

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

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

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

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

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

Waning Gibbous - The moon starts losing light on the right side.

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

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