Technology
WhatsApps AI can now turn your messages into awkward dad jokes
WhatsApp has released a new feature that lets you use AI to rephrase your messages or give them a different tone.
The feature, called Writing Help, can rephrase your message, or give it a different tone; for example, it can make it sound more professional, funny, or supportive.
To try it out, start typing in a message on WhatsApp, tap the icon to the right of the text, and then tap the pencil icon in the menu that opens up below your message. From there, you'll be able to choose what you want the AI to do with your message, and select from a couple of options on offer.
Meta says it's using its Private Processing tech, meaning the AI can do all this without Meta or WhatsApp ever reading your message (or the AI's suggestions).
The feature is only available in English, and in the United States as well as "several other countries," WhatsApp said in a blog post. The company says it hopes to bring it to other languages and countries "later this year."
SEE ALSO: Here's why you're about to see more ads on WhatsAppAs for why you'd want this, that's a little tougher to answer. My guess is that the people who will get the most out of it are those who don't have perfect command of the English language. As for the AI actually improving your sense of humor...well, based on the examples WhatsApp has provided, good luck with that.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Mirror Edition comes to PS5 and Xbox Series X: Release date and price info
The surprise hit of 2025 is already getting a collector’s re-issue, but this time at a friendlier price point. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 captured critics and players earlier this year with its dark fantasy Belle Époque setting, and now the Mirror Edition offers fans a second chance at a special physical release.
The Mirror Edition is an Amazon exclusive priced at $59.99 and available for preorder now for both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Inside the box, you’ll find the full base game on disc, an exclusive Renoir-themed tuckbox, a SteelBook case featuring Verso and Alicia, and three randomly selected character art cards out of a possible ten designs.
SEE ALSO: 'Gears of War: Reloaded' comes to PS5: Release date and price infoRight now, the placeholder release date is Dec. 31, 2025, but that’s more of a safety net than a real marker. Most expect it to launch before the end of the year.
This package is being pitched as a more approachable alternative to the game’s premium Collector’s Edition, which sold out quickly despite its hefty $150 price tag. That version came with DLC outfits, an artbook, a different SteelBook, and even a Monolith Music Box statuette. The Mirror Edition pares things back, but keeps the essentials for fans who just want a tangible keepsake.
Reactions from the community are a little mixed, though. Many welcome the affordable price point, but others aren’t thrilled about the randomized character cards. The main points of view on the mirror edition is it's either a glorified lootbox or a bargain, make of that what you will.
Still, for anyone who missed out the first time, the Mirror Edition is a compelling option. After all, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 isn’t just another RPG — it’s a critical darling from indie studio Sandfall Interactive, which sold 3.3 million copies in just 33 days and even drew praise from French President Emmanuel Macron for its creativity. With turn-based combat spiced up by real-time dodges, parries, and QTEs, it’s been hailed as one of the most immersive RPGs of the year.
The Mirror Edition of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is available to preorder now for $59.99 on PS5 and Xbox Series X, exclusively through Amazon. Just don’t get too attached to any one character card — you might have to hunt it down later.
Gameplay mechanics: Where turn-based meets real-time flairClair Obscur blends traditional turn-based RPG structure with real-time, reactive elements in a beautifully hybrid system. Combat unfolds from a third-person perspective: on your turn, you choose actions like basic melee attacks (to build Ability Points), ranged attacks (with free-aim mechanics), unique Skills (often tied to flashy Quick-Time Events), or item usage.
SEE ALSO: 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater' comes to PC, Xbox and PS5: Release date and price infoDefensive play is equally nuanced. On the enemy’s turn, you can dodge, parry, or jump in real time to evade damage — parrying is more demanding but rewards you with Ability Points and counterattack opportunities. You also manage a stamina system that lets you "Break" enemies, temporarily stunning them to create strategic openings.
The game introduces more advanced options like Gradient Attacks, Counters, and Skills, powered by a shared gauge that fills up through combat actions. Meanwhile, status effects, enemy weak points, and elemental weaknesses lend strategic depth and variety.
Each of the six playable characters brings distinct mechanics and playstyles:
Lune crafts elemental “Stains” to empower spells.
Maelle shifts through combat Stances to change offense‑defense balance.
Sciel stacks and consumes "Foretell" using magical cards for massive blowouts.
Gustave and Verso scale in power the more they attack, with Verso especially gaining "Perfection" ranks.
Monoco can shapeshift into enemies and use their abilities — enhanced via his "Bestial Wheel"
Outside of combat, players can rest at camps, upgrade gear, bond with characters to unlock side content, and explore levels with hidden collectibles and optional bosses. Travel between zones is made possible by a mythical creature, Esquie, who gains new traversal abilities over time .
What does it feel like?At its core, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a fascinating blend of old-school RPG structure and modern responsiveness. Battles play out turn by turn, but every choice carries a real-time element: dodging, parrying, and timing attacks can shift the tide of a fight. It’s as if Final Fantasy collided with Sekiro and Paper Mario — a mix of cinematic spectacle and hands-on skill. Each of the six playable characters has a distinct rhythm, from Lune’s elemental spellwork to Sciel’s tarot-like “Foretell” abilities, keeping combat fresh as you experiment with party compositions and strategies.
Install size: A lean packageUnlike many modern games that balloon past 100 GB, Clair Obscur is pleasantly compact:
PlayStation 5: ~41.3 GB
Xbox Series X/S: ~42.7 GB
PC (Microsoft Store/Steam): ~41.0 GB
The good news is that all this ambition doesn’t come with a bloated install size. On PS5 and PC, the game weighs in at just over 41GB, with Xbox Series X/S pushing it closer to 43GB — compact compared to most modern RPGs. And while its painterly Belle Époque world might remind some of Greedfall or even Bloodborne in mood, its narrative and party dynamics have earned comparisons to Baldur’s Gate 3. It’s stylish, it’s layered, and above all, it’s one of those rare RPGs that manages to feel familiar and groundbreaking at the same time.
These epic PS5 games are down to their lowest price in months
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to bulk up your PS5 library without emptying your wallet, today’s price cuts might be exactly what you were looking for.
PS5 consoles may be going up in price, but several major PlayStation 5 titles — ranging from brand-new releases to critically acclaimed remakes — have dropped to either their lowest prices ever or their lowest in months. From Atlus RPGs to Soulslike action, these discounts make it a good week to treat yourself to something new.
'Persona 3 Reload' Opens in a new window Credit: SEGA 'Persona 3 Reload: Standard Edition' $20 at Amazon$69.99 Save $49.99 Get Deal Why we like it
One of Mashable’s picks for the best games of 2024, Persona 3 Reload is a ground-up remake that finally gives the cult classic its due. This updated version takes everything groundbreaking about the 2006 original — from its demon-fusing combat to its social simulation elements — and rebuilds it with modern visuals, new voice acting, and fresh gameplay systems that bring it in line with Persona 5.
The result is the perfect mix of nostalgia and accessibility, and at just $20 with a whopping 71% taken off its price, it’s possibly the best RPG bargain you’ll find this year. If you’ve been curious about the roots of Atlus’ most beloved series, this is the time to jump in.
'Metaphor: ReFantazio' Opens in a new window Credit: SEGA 'Metaphor: ReFantazio' $40 at Amazon$69.99 Save $29.99 Get Deal Why we like it
In our review, Mashable called Metaphor: ReFantazio “the Final Fantasy XV I’ve always wanted” — and it’s easy to see why. Built by the core creative team behind Persona 5, Atlus’ newest RPG keeps the stylish turn-based combat and social mechanics fans love but transplants them into a richly imagined fantasy kingdom.
With its deep “Archetype” class system, clever blend of real-time and turn-based combat, and a sprawling road-trip narrative that feels more alive than Square Enix’s attempt at the same idea, Metaphor nails what it sets out to do. At 43% off, this early price drop makes one of 2024’s standout RPGs an even easier recommendation.
'Lies of P' Opens in a new window Credit: Fireshine Games 'Lies of P' $29.99 at Amazon$49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it
In Mashable’s roundup of the best games of 2023, Lies of P stood tall among giants, praised for being more than just another Soulslike. This gothic reimagining of Pinocchio blends the punishing combat formula popularised by FromSoftware with a twisted, Belle Époque aesthetic that feels fresh and memorable.
Its weapon-crafting system and branching narrative give players plenty of reasons to replay, while its difficulty strikes the right balance between challenging and fair. Down all the way to $29.99, it’s an excellent entry point for anyone looking for a dark, atmospheric action RPG without paying full price.
'Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4' Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox 'Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 – Standard Edition' $34.97 at Amazon$49.99 Save $15.02 Get Deal Why we like it
When we covered its release date announcement earlier this year, this remake of Pro Skater 3 and 4 promised to replicate “everything that made the originals a hit — tight controls, iconic levels, and a stacked soundtrack — while adding new tricks and expanded online multiplayer”.
And that’s exactly what Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 delivers. Developed with direct input from Tony Hawk himself, the game captures the kinetic flow that made the franchise legendary while updating it with modern polish and cross-platform play. At $34.97, you’re essentially paying just over $17 per game for two of the greatest skateboarding titles ever made — a deal any skater or nostalgia-driven gamer shouldn’t pass up.
'Black Myth: Wukong' Opens in a new window Credit: PM Studios 'Black Myth: Wukong' $57.99 at Amazon$64.99 Save $7.00 Get Deal Why we like it
Mashable’s in-progress review of Black Myth: Wukong described this hit game as “nothing short of a mind-blowing experience” and “a genuine game-of-the-year contender” despite some technical hiccups.
Inspired by Journey to the West, this visually stunning action RPG combines cinematic wuxia-inspired combat with Soulslike elements, throwing players into unforgettable boss encounters. While some performance issues linger, especially on PC, the PS5 version runs smoothly enough to let its dazzling art direction and fluid combat shine.
At $57.99, it’s only a modest discount, but given the hype surrounding Black Myth: Wukong, even a small break on price is worth taking.
Amazons Halloween Shop is live — score terrifyingly good deals on decorations, costumes, and candy
There's a slight chill in the air right now, and you know what that means... Halloween is right around the corner. If you don't want to wait for October to kickstart spooky season celebrations (and we don't blame you), Amazon's here to help you get in the spirit of the season early.
The retailer has just launched its Halloween Shop, which is filled with some exciting goodies for shoppers to score this year. These range from indoor and outdoor decorations, a wide variety of costumes, and the most important pickup of the Halloween season: candy.
With so many options to consider, we wanted to gather up just a few of our favorite picks from each category that are worth grabbing for Halloween this year. Whether you're looking for a funny posable skeleton to set up in your front yard or simply want a big bag of candy to keep to yourself, there's plenty to explore. Check out our favorites from Amazon's Halloween shop below.
Best indoor Halloween decoration Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Ideas Hocus Pocus The Sanderson Sister's Cottage $229.99 at AmazonShop Now Why we like it
Lego sets are always a worthy investment (personally, I'm a very big fan), and this build of the Sanderson Sister's cottage from Hocus Pocus is sure to put a spell on you this spooky season. Coming in at 2,316 pieces, this detailed set of the cottage also includes six minifigures of Winifred, Sarah, and Mary Sanderson, alongside Max, Dani, Allison, and a little Thackery Binx cat figure to complete the set. Piece it together while watching the film for a truly bewitching night on Halloween.
Below you can see more of our favorite indoor Halloween decorations from Amazon's Halloween Shop, from Halloween lantern string lights to pillow covers and so much more.
More indoor Halloween decorationsCAMIRUS Two-Pack 36-inch Posable Skeleton Halloween Decorations — $25.99
Franco Collectibles Beetlejuice Halloween Sandworm Decorative Pillow — $28.99
LaZimnInc BOO Wall Sign — $7.99
JXZYGMD 12x20 Ghost Pillow Cover — $6.99
STAUB Ceramic 2-pc Petite Pumpkin Cocotte Set — $64.95 $69.99 (save $5.04)
$40.99 Save $4.10 Shop Now Why we like it
Sure, Home Depot may have the 12-foot-tall skeleton to display in your front yard, but if you're looking for something that won't tower over your house this year, Amazon has an excellent alternative. Its Halloween Shop is offering a 5.4-foot posable skeleton that's even walking its own little skeleton dog. Take that, "Skelly"! These are a funny outdoor decoration to set up ahead of Halloween, and this skeleton display is even enjoying a nice little discount right now, so there's no better time to get it.
There's plenty more where this skeleton came from, though. Check out more of our favorite outdoor Halloween decorations from Amazon's Halloween Shop below, including a spider web decoration and some orange Halloween lights.
More outdoor Halloween decorationsOCATO 200-inch Halloween Spider Web + 59-inch Giant Spider Decoration — $13.11 $29.99 (save $16.88)
ZPISF 1400 sqft Halloween Spider Webs Decorations with 150 Extra Fake Spiders — $7.99
AYGXU Large Standing Ghost Lights Two-Pack — $35.99 $41.99 (save $6)
KOOPER Four-Pack Solar Lantern Outdoor Lights — $37.99 $42.99 (save $5)
FUNPENY 3FT Halloween Collapsible Pumpkin Decorations — $29.99 $39.99 (save $10)
kemooie 500 LED Orange Halloween Lights — $19.89 $21.99 (save $2.10)
JOYIN Halloween Decoration Outdoor Zombie Groundbreaker — $25.99 $41.99 (save $16)
GOOSH 5FT Halloween Inflatables Ghost Outdoor Decorations — $21.99 $38.99 (save $17)
Shop Now Why we like it
Amazon's Halloween Shop boasts a wide variety of costumes for checking out, but this adult costume of Glinda the Good Witch from The Wizard of Oz immediately caught our eye. With Wicked: For Good on the horizon, it feels like a perfect pairing for Halloween season. And while this costume is specifically for adults, there are plenty of options for kids to enjoy as well.
Below we've brought together a few more of our favorite costumes from Amazon's Halloween Shop for trick-or-treaters of all ages.
More Halloween costumesRubie's Child's Wizard of Oz Wicked Witch of The West Costume — $24.99 $34.99 (save $10)
Disguise Nightmare Before Christmas Jack Skellington Costume for Kids — $30 $34.99 (save $4.99)
Rubie's Super DC Heroes Wonder Woman Costume for Kids — $24.17 $44.99 (save $20.82)
Rubie's Girl's M3gan Costume Dress — $39.51 $44.99 (save $5.48)
Disguise Disney Toy Story 4 Rex Inflatable Adult Costume — $79
Disguise Men's Mr. Incredible Classic Muscle Adult Costume — $50.57 $89.99 (save $39.42)
Rubie's Boy's DC Batman: The Batman Movie Deluxe Costume — $48.35
$17.48 Save $1.31 Get Deal Why we like it
One of the best parts of Halloween is the candy, and Amazon's Halloween Shop has a big selection of bulk bags to choose from. It's hard to beat a classic chocolate assortment bag, and this selection from Hershey's is a worthy pickup. It comes with 115 mini pieces, including a classic Hershey's chocolate bar, Kit Kat, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, Milk Duds, Rolo, and Whoppers.
If you're not as big into the chocolatey bags, there are several other options to choose from. From Airheads to Sour Patch Kids to the classic Brach's Candy Corn, you can see more of our favorite Halloween candy from Amazon's Halloween Shop below.
More Halloween candyBrach's Classic Candy Corn Trick or Treat Packs, 60 Mini Pouches — $14.99
Butterfinger, Tic Tac Chewy and Co Assorted Halloween Chocolate Candy, 70 pieces — $16.18
SOUR PATCH KIDS Original & Watermelon Halloween Candy Variety Pack, 40 Trick or Treat Bags — $5.87 $6.49 (save $0.62)
HARIBO, JOLLY RANCHER and TWIZZLERS Assorted Fruit Flavored, Halloween Candy Bag (70 Pieces) — $15
JOLLY RANCHER Assorted Fruit Flavored Hard Candy Bulk Bag, Halloween Candy — $13.28
Butterfinger, CRUNCH, Baby Ruth, 100 Grand Fun Size Assorted Candy Bars, Bulk 40 Count Pack — $10.99
REESE'S Assorted Flavored Snack Size Peanut Butter, Halloween Candy Bag (55 Pieces) — $20.18
How to watch Popyrin vs. Sinner online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Popyrin vs. Sinner in the 2025 US Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 US Open action continues with some stellar second-round matchups, including Popyrin vs. Sinner. And better yet, fans can live stream this game without spending anything.
If you want to watch Popyrin vs. Sinner in the 2025 US Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
How to watch Popyrin vs. Sinner for freePopyrin vs. Sinner in the 2025 US Open is available to live stream for free on 9Now.
9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone from around the world can access this site with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in Australia, meaning you can unblock 9Now from anywhere in the world.
Access free live streams of the 2025 US Open by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in Australia
Visit 9Now
Watch the 2025 US Open for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2025 US Open before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for 9Now?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Australia
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A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).
Live stream Popyrin vs. Sinner for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
NYT Pips hints, answers for August 28
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 PipsIf 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 August 28, 2025The 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 August 28, 2025 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Aug. 28Equal (4): The domino halves in this space must be 4. The answer is 4-4, placed vertically; 4-2, placed vertically.
Number (17): Everything in this space must add up to 17. The answer is 4-2, placed vertically; 5-5, placed horizontally; 5-1, placed horizontally.
Medium difficulty hints, answers for Aug. 28Number (12): Everything in this space must add up to 12. The answer is 4-6, placed horizontally; 6-1, placed vertically.
Equal (1): The domino halves in this space must be 1. The answer is 6-1, placed vertically; 1-1, placed vertically; 4-1, placed horizontally.
Number (17): Everything in this space must add up to 17. The answer is 2-4, placed vertically; 5-4, placed horizontally; 4-1, placed horizontally.
Hard difficulty hints, answers for Aug. 28Equal (1): The domino halves in this purple space must be 1. The answer is 1-1, placed vertically.
Number (17): Everything in this dark blue space must add up to 17. The answer is 6-6, placed vertically; 5-1, placed vertically.
Number (1): Everything in this red space must add up to 1. The answer is 5-1, placed vertically.
Number (9): Everything in this green space must add up to 9. The answer is 5-4, placed vertically.
Greater than (1): Everything in this red space must add up to more than 1. The answer is 3-2, placed vertically.
Number (7): Everything in this light blue space must add up to 7. The answer is 2-0, placed vertically; 3-0, placed horizontally; 2-6, placed vertically.
Less than (2): Everything in this space must add up to less than 2. The answer is 1-0, placed horizontally.
Number (0): Everything in this purple space must add up to 0. The answer is 3-0, placed horizontally.
Number (6): Everything in this space must add up to 6. The answer is 2-6, placed vertically.
Number (0): Everything in this dark blue space must add up to 0. The answer is 0-0, 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.
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 28, 2025
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 August 4 Here's a hint for today's Connections categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Where one could get caught
Green: Needed for a hot drink
Blue: Solid
Purple: Found on a computer
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Places to get trapped
Green: Used for tea
Blue: Associated with hardness
Purple: Ending with keyboard keys
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 #810 is...
What is the answer to Connections todayPlaces to get trapped: NET, SNARE, TANGLE, WEB
Used for tea: CUP, KETTLE, TEABAG, WATER
Associated with hardness: DIAMOND, NAILS, ROCK, STEEL
Ending with keyboard keys: CANTAB, CYBERSPACE, ICECAPS, MAKESHIFT
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 August 27, 2025Are you also playing NYT 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 today's Connections.
NYT Strands hints, answers for August 28, 2025
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 MashableBy 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 August 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 4 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Do go on...The words are personality-related.
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explainedThese words are ways to describe chatty people.
NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.
NYT Strands spangram answer todayToday's spangram is Chatterbox.
Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for August 27Talkative
Verbose
Loquacious
Chatterbox
Voluble
Gabby
Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!
Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Strands.
Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 28, 2025
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 August 4 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 August 4, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:Cut (in half).
Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?There are no recurring letters.
Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...Today's Wordle starts with the letter S.
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...
SPLIT.
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 August 4Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Wordle.
Get the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor for its lowest-ever price — save $700 at Amazon
SAVE $700: As of Aug. 28, get the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor for $899.99, down from its usual price of $1,599.99. That's a discount of 44% and the lowest price we've seen.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor $899.99 at Amazon$1,599.99 Save $700 Get Deal
Big games call for big screens, and if you're thinking you might want to upgrade your gaming setup with something a little more substantial, now's the time to do it. You can score a massive beast of a gaming monitor for a fraction of its usual price over at Amazon right now. And we're not kidding — it's huge.
As of Aug. 28, get the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor at Amazon for $899.99, down from its usual price of $1,599.99. That's $700 off and a discount of 44%. It's also the lowest price we've seen.
SEE ALSO: These Nintendo Switch 2 games have already dropped to insane pricesThis curved, super-ultra-wide, 46-inch screen does more than crisply display your games — it turns them into an experience. Its QD-OLED tech ensures a vivid picture with deep black tones and bright hues that pop. It boasts Dual QHD resolution (5120 x 1440) across its huge 32:9 screen, as well as a 144Hz refresh rate and 0.02ms response time. That should make for an incredibly smooth gaming experience. And thanks to both G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro compatibility, you should see less screen tearing, lag, or stuttering.
This display is meant to game on for long periods of time as well, so you don't have to worry if your matches run long or if you need to clock lengthy training periods for your burgeoning esports career. Samsung thought about that, too, incorporating burn-in protection, thermal modulation to reduce excess heat, and Picture-in-Picture mode so you can divert your attention to multiple things.
If you're ready to make a big leap in terms of the tech on your gaming desk, this is a great pick. Just be sure to snag it before it disappears.
Here’s where to preorder Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution ahead of its September release
Update — Aug. 28: Mega Evolution will be delayed to Oct. 10 in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This delay will not affect the U.S. launch
Pokémon TCG is closing out Scarlet and Violet with one of its biggest expansions yet. Mega Evolution releases on Sept. 26, 2025, and it’s set to kick off an entirely new block focused on Mega Evolution ex cards. Fans have been waiting for Megas to return for years, and this set finally delivers with new mechanics, new rarities, and some of the flashiest card designs we’ve seen in a long time.
This expansion is stacked with over 180 cards, including 10 Mega Evolution Pokémon ex like Mega Lucario ex, Mega Gardevoir ex, and Mega Venusaur ex. These cards are powerful, but there’s a tradeoff: knock one out and your opponent takes three prize cards. It adds a high-risk, high-reward layer to deck building, and it’s going to shake up how games play out. Collectors also have plenty to chase with new Illustration Rares, Special Illustration Rares, and the debut of Mega Ultra Rare (MUR) gold cards.
SEE ALSO: Where to buy Pokémon cards in 2025 — avoid overpaying or missing out on new setsWith prerelease events starting mid-September and product officially dropping at the end of the month, preorders are already live. The big-box retailers like Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Best Buy are charging near MSRP, while the secondary market on TCGPlayer gives us a real sense of what the community thinks the set is worth. Let’s look at how prices compare across each retailer so you can preorder smart.
Mega Evolution TCGPlayer preorders Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyTCGPlayer is always worth checking first. It’s the secondary market hub for trading card games and tracks live pricing across singles and sealed products. Since sellers compete directly here, TCGPlayer often ends up being the cheapest option once big-box listings inflate.
Mega Evolution Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box - Mega Gardevoir
Mega Evolution Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box - Mega Lucario
Amazon has preorder listings for Mega Evolution, but as usual you may have to pay extra for the convenience. Usually Amazon price their Pokémon TCG preorders at MSRP, but these prices are all but guaranteed to balloon once Mega Evolutions drops. Be savvy, check other retailers (especially TCGPlayer) and remember that Amazon isn't the only competitive online retailer.
Pokemon TCG Mega Evolutions Elite Trainer Box (one selected at random)
Pokemon TCG: Mega Evolutions Mega Heroes Mini Tin Display (10 Tins)
Pokémon TCG: Mega Battle Deck — Mega Gengar ex/Mega Diancie ex
Best Buy briefly opened preorders for Mega Evolution, and they sold out fast. That’s been the case with recent expansions, so if you missed out, don’t worry too much. If they restock closer to release, pricing will likely be in line with MSRP. Best Buy is handy for local pickup, but availability can be inconsistent post-release.
Pokémon — Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box
Pokémon — Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution 3Pk Booster Bundle
Pokémon — Trading Card Game: Mega Battle Deck (Mega Gengar ex or Mega Diancie ex)
Target is offering Mega Evolution products with their cheeky Target Circle Card discount, which knocks 5% off your total buy. That little bit of savings makes Target one of the better big-box choices, but Pokémon TCG stock jumps in and out in a flash, so it's always worth a quick look to see if anything is in stock before trying other retailers.
Another solid preorder option to check in on. Nothing has dropped at the time of writing, but it's always worth double checking the listing below if you're struggling to find stock.
The Most Valuable Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia Pokémon Japan cards Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyBefore Mega Evolution arrives in English this September, Japan already got the first taste through its twin expansions Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia. Both launched on Aug. 1 with 63 cards each (not counting secret rares), and together they make up the backbone of the Mega Evolution set. They introduced 10 Mega Evolution Pokémon ex, new full art Trainers, and a brand-new rarity tier called Mega Ultra Rare (MUR) that’s already commanding big prices on the secondary market.
For collectors who don’t want to wait until September, sealed boxes and singles from Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia are available now on TCGPlayer. Prices are already spiking for the chase cards, especially Mega Lucario and Mega Gardevoir, which headline the set with stunning gold MUR artwork. Here are the five most valuable pulls from Japan so far:
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater comes to PC, Xbox and PS5: Release date and price info
The wait is finally over. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater has landed on PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC, bringing one of the most iconic stealth adventures of all time into the modern era. For me, this one hits differently because Snake Eater was not just another sequel when it launched back in 2004. It was Kojima and Konami taking everything they had built in Metal Gear Solid and Sons of Liberty and going backwards in time to show us the roots of Snake’s story. It was daring, it was strange, and it became one of the most beloved chapters in the series.
Seeing it rebuilt now, twenty years later, feels surreal.
Release date, platforms, and editionsThe remake officially arrives on Aug. 28, 2025 across PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Konami has split the release into a few different versions depending on how deep you want to go. The Standard Edition gives you just the game itself, with PC pricing running slightly cheaper than the console versions. The Tactical Edition, available physically for PS5 and Xbox, includes a code in the box that unlocks the Sneaking DLC Pack as well as Snake’s slick White Tuxedo uniform. Then there is the Digital Deluxe Edition, which bundles the game with that same bonus content but also gives players the chance to start playing 48 hours early. Only the digital version comes with early access, while physical copies stick to the official launch. At this point, paying out extra for early access isn't worth it.
SEE ALSO: 'Gears of War: Reloaded' comes to PS5: Release date and price infoOn PC, you will want to brace for a serious download. Preloads came in at around 76GB, expanding to nearly 100GB once installed. Consoles are in roughly the same ballpark, so clear some space before diving in. If you bought the Digital Deluxe Edition, you have probably already been crawling through the mud since Aug. 26. I cannot say two days of early play is worth rearranging your whole edition choice around, but I get the appeal of starting early.
What is actually new in this remake?This is where things get interesting. Metal Gear Solid Delta does not rewrite the past. It is not pretending the original did not already nail the fundamentals. Instead, it takes the bones of that 2004 classic and rebuilds it with Unreal Engine 5. The difference is immediate. Dense jungles ripple with shifting shadows, Snake’s injuries appear on his body in real time until you patch them up, and enemies react with sharper instincts than ever. Guards will follow the sound of a twig snapping under your boot, spot a blood trail on the ground, or even notice the sway of long grass. It makes every movement feel heavier and every mistake riskier.
I really appreciated the camera options. You can stick with the fixed, pulled back perspective of the original, something purists will probably cling to, or you can switch to a more modern over the shoulder viewpoint that makes sneaking around feel fluid in a way it never quite did before. On top of that, the fiddly menus of 2004 have been smoothed out. Healing wounds, changing camouflage, and even grabbing trophies can now be done in real time without pausing the action. These are small changes on paper, but they add up to something that feels both familiar and refreshingly modern.
How the gameplay has shiftedCombat and stealth flow differently now too. Close quarters combat has been reanimated to look and feel more physical. You can seamlessly throw, choke, disarm, and interrogate enemies with far less stiffness than in the PS2 era. The jungle does not just look alive, it sounds alive. Every rustle of leaves or distant animal call has been layered into the soundscape, pulling you deeper into Snake’s lonely trek. Even the boss fights, which are still staged almost identically to the original, feel smoother thanks to subtle tweaks in pacing and enemy behavior.
And then there is the curveball. Remember the strange “Guy Savage” minigame that was buried in the original? It is back, but this time reimagined by PlatinumGames, who turned it into a short but stylish action sequence. It is bizarre, it is self indulgent, and it fits the spirit of Metal Gear perfectly.
Why it still mattersLooking back, Snake Eater was the game that proved stealth did not just have to be about hiding in shadows. It asked you to survive, to hunt for food, to camouflage yourself, to treat your wounds when the jungle itself seemed set against you. It balanced espionage drama with surreal humor in a way no other series could pull off. This remake does not just preserve that, it emphasizes it. It is still a story about loyalty and betrayal, but now it plays and feels like the definitive version.
Two decades later, the question is not whether Snake Eater holds up. It is whether a game so meticulously rooted in its time could be translated for a new one. After spending time in this remake, I think the answer is yes. Snake’s story is timeless. The only thing that has changed is how good the mud looks caked on his face.
Where to buy 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater' Buy for Xbox 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater — Tactical Edition' (Xbox Series X|S) $69.99 Shop Now Buy for PlayStation 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater — Tactical Edition' (PS5) $69.99 Shop Now Best for PC 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater' (PC, Steam) $52.38 (save $17.61) Shop NowThese Nintendo Switch 2 games have already dropped to insane prices
SAVE UP TO $15: As of Aug. 28, Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut, Sonic X Shadow Generations, and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 for Nintendo Switch 2 are all down to their lowest-ever prices at Amazon.
The best Nintendo Switch 2 game deals right now 'Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut' $37 (save $12.99) Get Deal 'Sonic X Shadow Generations' $39.99 (save $10) Get Deal 'Tony Hawk's™ Pro Skater™ 3 + 4' $34.97 (save $15.02) Get DealIf you’re like many Nintendo Switch 2 owners who’ve been holding off on buying physical third-party games, these price cuts make it the best time to add to your collection. As of Aug. 28, three big-name releases — Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut, Sonic X Shadow Generations, and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 — have all hit their lowest-ever prices since launching on the platform, now up to $15 off.
It’s no secret that third-party games on the Switch 2 haven’t exactly been flying off shelves, with first-party titles like Donkey Kong Bananza and upgraded Switch 1 games dominating sales. Between the backlash over “code in box” releases (nobody likes buying a case with just a download slip inside) and ongoing scepticism around Nintendo’s Game-Key Card program, many players have been skipping full-priced third-party offerings.
However, these price drops make them a lot easier to justify. Bargains this big, so soon after release, seem to be telling the story that gamers are unwilling to purchase a physical release if it merely acts as a license to download the game. That said, Nintendo's (and Amazon’s) loss is your gain with these huge discounts.
Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut Opens in a new window Credit: SEGA 'Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut' $37 at Amazon$49.99 Save $12.99 Get Deal Why we like it
Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut, which many would say it the most popular third-party Switch 2 game outside of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, is surprisingly down almost $13. This deal is also available at Best Buy.
Set in the gritty underworld of 1988 Japan, this prequel to the long-running series blends hard-hitting brawler combat with an elaborate crime drama.
The Director’s Cut expands the original hit 2015 game with never-before-seen cutscenes, giving deeper insight into the lives of Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima. Combat is more dynamic than ever thanks to three switchable fighting styles, and the new online “Red Light Raid” mode lets you join forces with friends to take down waves of enemies.
The only element that’s really been holding this game back is the Game-Key Card for its physical editions, meaning the cartridge doesn’t actually contain the game — you have to download it instead. So, at $37, this is a rare chance to dive into the best version of one of SEGA’s most acclaimed story-driven titles without paying full price — if that’s enough to help you get over the fact you aren’t buying a purely physical game.
Sonic X Shadow Generations Opens in a new window Credit: SEGA 'Sonic X Shadow Generations' $39.99 at Amazon$49.99 Save $10 Get Deal Why we like it
The Switch 2 version of Sonic X Shadow Generations has also taken on a price dip, dropping to $39.99 for the first time. This refreshed edition of Sonic Generations brings together modern and classic Sonic gameplay in a massive celebration of the franchise’s past, with revamped 2D and 3D stages and newly enhanced cinematics.
SEE ALSO: All the Switch 2 games that you can buy (and actually play) right nowThe highlight of this edition is the brand-new Shadow storyline, which introduces new abilities, challenges, and a darker story that fleshes out one of Sonic’s most popular characters. Considering it has been stuck at $49.99 since launch, this drop makes it the perfect time to grab it for less.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox 'Tony Hawk's™ Pro Skater™ 3 + 4 ' $34.97 at Amazon$49.99 Save $15.02 Get Deal Why we like it
Fans of skateboarding classics can now grab Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 for its lowest price yet on Switch 2. This remastered collection brings the iconic Pro Skater 3 and 4 into the modern age with sharper HD visuals, improved controls, and the return of the beloved two-minute runs.
It also includes online multiplayer for up to eight skaters, plus enhanced Create-A-Skater and Create-A-Park modes that let you design and share custom content for the first time on a Nintendo system. At just under $35, it’s an easy recommendation for anyone craving the smooth handling and arcade chaos of the golden age of skateboarding games.
Even though this is just a download code in a box, arguably the most offensive kind of physical release you can buy, getting $15 off the price tag takes a lot of the sting out of the situation.
If you're still looking for new stuff to play, check out our roundup of Switch 2 games that you can buy (and actually play) right now.
Tesla teases Model Y Performance trim in new video
Tesla Model Y Performance might finally be on its way.
The company launched a thoroughly revamped Model Y in January, and has gradually expanded the available trims, but one popular option was missing: The super-quick Performance trim.
Now, Tesla's Europe and Middle East account has posted a teaser video showing something that looks a lot like the rear end of a Model Y with a pronounced spoiler. The video also displays a date – August 29, 2025 – and has a tagline "spoiler alert," all of which indicates the company is getting ready to launch the Performance trim of the Model Y this Friday.
Given that the teaser video was only posted by Tesla's Europe and Middle East account, it's quite possible that the Model Y will hit those markets first.
This wouldn't be a big surprise; after all, the revamped Model Y was launched in China, Australia and Europe first, followed by a U.S. launch a few months later.
Tesla opted for a similarly staggered launch of its revamped Model 3 last year, having launched the regular, Long Range first, following by the incredibly quick Performance trim.
SEE ALSO: Tesla expands Robotaxi service in Austin again, now covering its own GigafactorySo what can we expect from the new trim? Besides quicker acceleration, which is a given, a recent spotting of a camouflaged Model Y Performance at Nurburgring revealed several upgrades, including a new rear spoiler, 21-inch rims, updated brakes and suspension, and sportier seats.
Crocs has partnered with Animal Crossing — heres where to buy your pair
Crocs is no stranger to cool collabs; the brand has launched plenty of statement-making releases (who could forget Shrek crocs?) over the year. But now it is stepping into the world of Animal Crossing for the first time, and we couldn't be more excited.
The new collection, available now in the U.S. and Canada, takes inspiration directly from the popular Nintendo game. Think earthy greens for the land, ocean-inspired soles and straps, and island-life inspired Jibbitz for you to customize. We're dreaming of the island lifestyle.
SEE ALSO: KFC teamed up with Crocs to make some seriously weird shoesFans can customize their pairs with a lineup of charms featuring beloved characters like Tom Nook, K.K. Slider, Rosie, and Marshal, as well as cozy in-game items like a house and an apple tree. Imagine that you're decorating your island on your feet.
And it's not just kids that can have all the fun, because this release includes options for adults and children. The Animal Crossing Platform Clog for adults is listed for $84.99, and the Animal Crossing Classic Clog for kids is $54.99. That's not exactly cheap, but for Animal Crossing fans? Worth it.
Where to buy Animal Crossing CrocsYou can purchase the Animal Crossing Crocs directly from the Crocs website, in-store, or at any other authorized Crocs retailer. You can also find these special Crocs at Amazon.
Opens in a new window Credit: Crocs 'Animal Crossing' Crocs Shop NowSuunto has launched the Wing 2 bone conducting headphones — a runners opinion
A good playlist is a runner's perfect companion. Mile by mile, sometimes the only thing keeping you going is the right beats per minute playlist. But at the same time, there are all kinds of things you need to be aware of when running outdoors, besides your favorite tunes. Cars, cyclists, and other runners, for example. So what do you do when you want great sound quality but the spatial awareness to keep you safe? You go for bone conduction technology.
Bone conduction technology transmits sound through vibrations directly to the inner ear via the cheekbones, bypassing the eardrum, and increasing your spatial awareness. There are some major players in this field, like the Shokz Open Run, and now, Suunto's Wing 2 headphones.
Opens in a new window Credit: Suunto Suunto Wing 2 $179 at AmazonShop Now Are the Suunto Wing 2 headphones worth the upgrade?
If you already have a great pair of earbuds, or bone conduction headphones for that matter, it can be difficult to know when to toss them aside for a newer model. If we upgraded every time a new model came out, we'd have earbuds falling out of every corner of the home. But this Suunto launch feels different, especially since it coincides with the release of the Race 2 watch.
If you're a sucker for good sound, these headphones are hard to resist. The Wing 2 headphones boast a deeper, more powerful bass and clearer mids and highs through refined metal components and optimized EQ. The maximum volume is increased by 5 dB from the previous model, so you can truly blast your sounds when smashing PRs. The bone conduction technology also reduces sound leakage more effectively than traditional headphones.
Credit: Suunto Credit: SuuntoIf you're already a fan of the Wing 1 headphones, this model truly is a new and improved version, especially when it comes to the design. The Wing 2 headphones sport a lighter, slimmer shell, so you'll find both the fit and sound quality are much improved. The weight distribution has also been adjusted forward to make them more comfortable and keep the earbuds securely in place during long wear and intense workouts.
You can also pick from two colors: all black and coral orange, because it's not always substance over style. And let's not forget the built in LED lights. Enjoy two motion-activated lighting modes, perfect for late-night runs. In Turn and Brake Mode, lights signal direction and alert others when slowing down, and the Cadence Sync Mode pulses lights synchronized with running pace. We've not looked at any studies, but we reckon cool flashing lights will actually make you run faster.
SEE ALSO: We tested the top fitness trackers of 2025: See our favorite wearables and smart ringsAnd if you're used to wet, windy, and all-around miserable climates, these will still perform. Thanks to the dual microphones and smart noise-canceling technology, your music will still cut through wind and background noise. This is thanks to a metal filter that helps to reduce wind noise at speeds up to 30 km/h.
Now onto the big one, battery life. If you're training for some serious distance like a marathon or triathlon, you need headphones that are going to last, and with the Wing 2 headphones, you're promised up to 12 hours of continuous playback and a total of 36 hours with the included power bank. And if you forget to charge before heading out, like we always do, just give them a quick five-minute charge to get an hour and a half of listening.
Credit: SuuntoThe list of qualities that matter should really end here. What's left at this point? But I'm a huge fan of the neck mobility and posture sensors. These are built to help assess the cervical range of motion. They can track recovery from injuries or optimize your training posture. If you keep displaying poor posture (guilty), gentle reminders will prompt you to adjust your form. As far as fancy features go, this one is seriously impressive.
We've not given these headphones the full review treatment yet, but from what we've seen, we're impressed. For $179 at Amazon, if you're in the market for a pair of running headphones that deliver where it counts, these are definitely worth considering.
NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 28, 2025
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.
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 Mini crossword answers, hints for August 28, 2025 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Broken rules
Green: Talkers
Blue: Court rulers
Purple: Same first initials
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Basketball violations
Green: Roles on a broadcast team
Blue: Last four US Open women's singles winners
Purple: Preceded by "LA"
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 #339 is...
What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition todayBasketball violations - BACKCOURT, DOUBLE-DRIBBLE, GOALTEND, TRAVEL
Roles on a broadcast team - COLOR, PLAY-BY-PLAY, SIDELINE, STUDIO
Lat four US Open Women's Singles winners - GAUFF, RADUCANU, SABALENKA, SWIATEK
Preceded by "LA" - CLIPPERS, COLISEUM, GALAXY, LIGA
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to the latest Connections.
Where to get free e-books: Load up your e-reader without spending a dime
A universal truth: everyone loves free stuff. For us, this is especially true when it comes to books. Avid readers who run through books at lightning speed are always on the hunt for the next book. But reading doesn't have to be an expensive hobby — it can be accessible and affordable. And that's true even if you're using an e-reader.
Free e-books are surprisingly plentiful. Thanks to the internet, there are so many exceptional resources for free e-books that we've already covered, including Libby and Stuff Your Kindle Day. But there are other sites offering free e-books that we've vetted and trust, which is important when you're downloading files from the internet.
But before we get into the details of accessing free e-books, keep in mind the type of free digital books that are available online. The majority of free e-books online are free because they're in the public domain. These will be classic works like Pride and Prejudice and The Great Gatsby. If you're looking to read big-name new releases and best sellers, the best way to read them is with Libby. But for classic and indie authors, here's how to get free e-books for your e-reader or Kindle.
Where to get free e-booksThere are four main platforms for finding ebooks that we've used and trust, including Project Gutenberg, Standard Ebooks, Smashwords, and BookBub. Here's what you need to know about each platform.
Project Gutenberg and Standard EbooksBoth Project Gutenberg and Standard Ebooks are volunteer-run operations that turn books in the public domain into easily accessible e-book files. Each site offers thousands of ebooks in compatible file formats for different e-readers, including Kindles and Kobos.
Expect to find titles such as Moby Dick, Frankenstein, Pride and Prejudice, and Dracula. Since all of these files download to a computer, you'll need to get them on your e-reader, and we have a step-by-step guide on how to download EPUB files on your Kindle if you need some help.
SmashwordsWhile browsing through the ereader subreddit, a common website recommended by users is Smashwords. The site is a self-publishing platform where authors can sell their books. The website has a free section with thousands of books available to download for free. All of the books on Smashwords are DRM-free, meaning they can be read across different devices.
BookBubUnlike Project Gutenberg or Smashwords, which are sites that host downloadable files, BookBub instead aggregates free book listings. BookBub specializes in listing book deals, and among those deals are free e-books, too. Many of the listings are collected from Amazon through the Kindle Store; however, if books are available on other platforms, those will be listed, too.
Where to get free Kindle e-booksKindle users have another spot to find free e-books: the Kindle Store. There are plenty of free e-books available from the Kindle Store, which you can download to your Kindle library. And Prime members can get a free book each month from Amazon First Reads.
That doesn't mean you need to own a Kindle (although we are big fans of Amazon's e-readers) because you can access the Kindle library on your smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Shop our favorite e-readers Kindle $89.99 at Amazon Shop Now Kindle Paperwhite $159.99 at Amazon Shop Now Kindle Colorsoft $219.99 at Amazon Shop Now Kobo Clara Colour $139.99 at Amazon Shop Now Kindle Scribe $399.99 at Amazon Shop Now Kobo Libra Colour $229.98 at Amazon Shop NowNYT Mini crossword answers, hints for August 28, 2025
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 gameHere are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, August 28, 2025:
AcrossSpongeBob's boss, for oneThe answer is Crab.
The answer is Audit.
The answer is Smoke.
The answer is Korea.
The answer is Rest.
The answer is Cask.
The answer is Rumor.
The answer is Adore.
The answer is Bikes.
The answer is Teat.
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 GamesAre you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to the latest Mini Crossword.
I put the top AI image generators head-to-head — see the results for yourself
When you first think of AI, you probably think of a text-based AI chatbot like ChatGPT or Google Gemini. But AI tools are getting a lot more versatile. Even basic AI chatbots now offer a range of media creation tools, including AI image generation.
But what's the best AI image generator? That's exactly what I set out to find.
While the average user will probably be happy with free AI image generators (ChatGPT, Grok, and MetaAI let users create images for free), there are actually quite a few AI image makers worth paying for in 2025, and they're not all created equal.
In the early days, these tools were inconsistent, struggled with realism, and failed to follow instructions. But after only a few years of development, most of those issues have been ironed out — you shouldn't get mangled fingers anymore. Now, AI image models, like the one built into OpenAI’s latest model GPT-5, allow users to refine and tweak images based on text input, while others target extreme photorealism or image-to-video creation.
I pit the best AI image generators against each other, and you can compare the results for yourself.
How we tested AI image makers like ChatGPT, Grok, and Midjourney AI-generated image Credit: AI-generated image / Stable DiffusionI ran a series of standard prompts through each model. Here are the exact prompts I used:
Create a sketch of a futuristic Tokyo skyline at sunset, with flying cars, glowing advertisements in Japanese, and Mount Fuji in the background.
Create a candid photorealistic image of a woman drinking a coffee and smoking a cigarette at a cafe in Paris in the late evening.
Create a medieval blacksmith’s workshop interior, showing a female blacksmith hammering a glowing sword, with sparks flying, a roaring forge, hanging tools, and a cat curled up near the fire, in high detail and warm tones.
Create an impressionist painting in the style of Vincent Van Gogh of a robot blowing dandelion seeds into the wind.
Safety is also an important concern, especially as deepfakes become more common. (We're looking at you, xAI.) So, I also ran a series of three prompts through each model to create a deepfake and test the safety features of each model. The results were disappointing, sadly. The first prompt was designed to trigger safeguards around images with public figures. I then used two more prompts engineered to skirt the rules. (I'm not sharing the exact prompts in this case.) All of the image generators created something within these three prompts, but I was very surprised at the number of AI tools that created an image on the first prompt.
It's also important to note that all of these outputs were made using basic default settings. Some image generators give more than one image for each prompt by default. In those cases, only the first image was used. We didn't go through each of them to determine which was best and use that.
So, based on these tests, what is the best AI image generator in 2025? Yes, there was a clear winner, and no, it probably won't surprise you — it's ChatGPT.
Best overall: ChatGPT (GPT-Image-1)OpenAI released a massive upgrade to its image generation tools through GPT-4o, which did away with the DALL-E model for generating images and wrapped its image generation tools into its flagship large language model (which is now GPT-5). The results of this update were pretty massive (and controversial). Before the new image generator, images created by ChatGPT tended to have weird-shaped text, limited photorealism, and the usual AI artifacts. The update (now called GPT-Image-1) changes that — and can be accessed for free.
Now, text is clear and precise, the tool is able to create photorealistic images, and users can have ChatGPT edit images through text prompts. In other words, you can have a GPT create an image and ask it to change certain aspects of the image, and it will do so fairly precisely without altering too much else about the image. Of course, it's still not perfect, and it can still go rogue, but it's far and away the most precise AI image maker.
Using ChatGPT feels more like asking a person to create or edit an image rather than using a software tool. For all these reasons, it's easily the best AI image generator in 2025, whether you're a free or paid user.
GPT-Image-1 had some awareness about image safety and refused to create a deepfake at first. However, it did create a lookalike when we pressed. That was still better than most other tools, but it would still be relatively easy for most users to create deepfake images using ChatGPT.
Free tier: Yes (daily limits on images)
Monthly Pricing: $20 Plus plan, $200 Pro plan
Sign up at OpenAI
Midjourney is one of the original AI image generators, and since its original release in 2022, it has gotten a number of updates. Midjourney V7 is the latest model, and to use it, you’ll go through a personalization process in which you’ll essentially train the model to the kinds of images you like. After going through the personalization process, we found that the results were very impressive, though images still did have some issues, like struggling with fingers, hands, and some other minor details. GPT-Image-1 was a little better at things like that.
However, there was one area in which Midjourney was better than most others, and that's in actually following the prompts. Unlike many of the other models we tested, it followed our direction to create a sketch of Tokyo instead of a photorealistic image, created a painting in the style of Van Gogh, and so on. Like the other image generators that create multiple images at a time, we're judging Midjourney based on the first image it created, but the others that it spat out were similarly accurate to what we asked it to do.
The generator had no problem creating deepfakes though, generating an image on the first go. That issue aside, Midjourney was excellent at creating highly detailed, realistic images when prompted — and it always stuck to the prompt that we gave.
Like ChatGPT, Midjourney is worth paying for if you make a lot of AI images. As a bonus, paid users can easily turn images into videos with Midjourney.
Free tier: No
Monthly Pricing: $10 Basic plan, $30 Standard plan, $60 Pro plan, $120 Mega plan
Sign up at Midjourney
GPT-4o was able to follow instructions and create vibrant and detailed photorealistic images, but Ideogram 1.0 had a slight edge in photorealism, despite not offering the same level of chat-based features nor the same accessibility.
In general, the images created by Ideogram 1.0 tended to be brighter and more vibrant than those created by GPT-4o, and when it came to photorealism, the model was able to create images with proper shadow placement and general lighting. You could still look closely at an image and see things that weren't very realistic or looked a little out of place. For example, in the image of the woman at the café in Paris, the smoke from the cigarette appeared to be coming from the coffee as well as the cigarette. Still, these were minor issues from a model that was far more realistic than most of the others, which still struggled with things like hands and following specific instructions.
Ideogram had no problem generating deepfake images, though. The service generated the image I requested on the first prompt, even when I mentioned a celebrity by name. You may or may not find this to be an issue, and if you don't plan on generating deepfake images, then it probably won't matter to you either way. But, it does raise some questions about how the model handles safety.
Free tier: Yes (weekly limits on images)
Monthly Pricing: $7 Basic plan, $16 Plus plan, $48 Pro plan
Sign up at Ideogram
Google’s latest image generation model is Imagen 4, and it’s a significant upgrade over Imagen 3. It also happens to be very easy to access, and you can use it in the dedicated Gemini app, Google Docs, the Google app, and even in Chrome. While Meta AI is perhaps just as easy to access (or maybe even easier, as it's included in services like Messenger and WhatsApp), Gemini’s output is far better.
Note, Google has released Imagen 4 Ultra; however, we’re not including it in this guide since it’s not available in stock-standard Gemini yet.
Imagen 4 wasn’t perfect. The sketch of Tokyo was photorealistic despite our instructions, which was ironic given that the image of the blacksmith came out as a sketch. The Van Gogh-style painting of a robot was in the style of Van Gogh, but it also hilariously put Van Gogh's head on a robot body. All that said, the quality of the images was impressive, and the image of the woman at the cafe looked as good as the ChatGPT version. With the right prompts, you can easily get images that are as good as ChatGPT. If you're in Google's ecosystem and use Gemini anyway, you won't be losing out on quality by just sticking with Gemini for your image tool instead of downloading an additional app just for images.
Free tier: Yes
Monthly pricing: $19.99 AI Pro plan (free trial), $249.99 AI Ultra plan
Sign up at Google Gemini
Professional photographers, graphic designers, and others probably already use Adobe's tools in their workflow, and as such, it makes sense to leverage Adobe Firefly if you're looking for an AI image generator. For our test, we used the latest and greatest Firefly model, called Firefly Image 4 Ultra.
That said, the integration with Adobe tools was perhaps the best thing about it. The results weren’t bad most of the time, and I was very impressed at the level of detail on offer by the image of a woman at a cafe in Paris. Also worth noting is the fact that this model was the only one that didn't generate an image of a Caucasian woman, which is notable considering the fact that there was no direction as to the subject's race in the prompt. That said, in the resulting image, there's no indication whatsoever that the woman is in Paris. The other images may not have the Eiffel Tower in the background, but they do have a European vibe, and having lived in Paris, I can totally see those locations being there. Firefly's cafe could realistically be anywhere.
The other images had their own issues. The cat in the blacksmith photo looked quite strange. It failed completely to generate an image of either a robot or something that even approached the style of Vincent Van Gogh, instead opting for an image of a house. And, the “sketch” of Tokyo ended up photorealistic, without any indication that it was actually Tokyo. All that to say, Firefly may be better for generating parts of an image or filling an existing photo with additional information rather than creating entirely new images.
It is worth noting that Firefly was among the best at avoiding generating a deepfake. It refused to generate anything until the final prompt, and the resulting image looked nothing like the intended figure. So, Firefly gets top marks for safety.
Free tier: Free trial only
Monthly pricing: $9.99 Standard plan, $29.99 Pro plan, $199.99 Premium plan
Sign up at Adobe Firefly
If you have a Facebook or Meta account, then Meta AI is also extremely easy to access, making it one of the best free AI image generators. Yes, ChatGPT is also free to use, but you quickly hit image generation limits. On top of that, Meta's Llama is even easier to use because of the fact that it’s baked into so many products already. Meta AI has its own app and website, but you can also access it through Facebook Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
The quality of Meta AI’s image generator is…not great. Even when it comes to images that are supposed to be photorealistic, it has an AI quality to it that was characteristic of the best image generators from a couple of years ago. It kind of half-heartedly follows prompts like being told to create something in the style of Van Gogh, and the image of Tokyo couldn’t really be considered a “sketch.”
It's roughly on par with Grok Imagine. And, like Grok, it plays fast and loose with concepts like intellectual property. The willingness to create images featuring celebrities is frankly surprising, and it's especially concerning from a social media company. On the plus side, we appreciate that unlike most of the big players in the AI industry, Llama is an open-weight model.
In summary, the image quality with Meta AI is pretty mediocre, but if you just want to create a lot of images and share them with your friends, this is the best AI image generator for you.
Free to use: Yes
Download the Meta AI app for iOS or Android; access via Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp
Stable Diffusion is another original in the AI image generation world, and the Stable Image Ultra model is its latest. This open-source model also created excellent images; however, it also suffered from some of the same issues as Midjourney, failing to accurately produce things like fingers. That said, most of our test images were very, very good.
Free tier: Yes
Sign up at Stable Diffusion
Black Forest Labs has been working on AI image generation tools for some time, and its best model so far is Flux Pro 1.1 Ultra. This model was able to create solid images overall. All of its images looked nice, though it didn’t really recreate the Van Gogh style very well, and the sketch of Tokyo wasn’t a sketch. Everything else looked fine. It was perfectly willing to create a deepfake, though opted for a motorcycle instead of a bicycle. That’s forgivable considering the vagueness of the term “bike.”
Free tier: Yes
Monthly pricing: $16.90 Basic plan, $22.90 Pro plan, $26.90 Max plan, $42.90 Pro Max plan
Sign up at Flux Pro
Ah, Grok. X's problem child. With the latest Grok 4 model, Grok’s images can sometimes be high-quality, and it was hit or miss at creating photorealism. So why is it ranked last? In general, Grok's images reminded me of the best AI image generators from 2023 — full of errors that simply defy the laws of physics. Likewise, the new Grok Imagine AI image and video generation did not impress Mashable testers, and it lacks industry-standard safeguards.
Grok also failed to follow my instructions to create a “sketch,” and in the image of the blacksmith, it created two cats, though one of them didn’t really look like one. The hands of the Parisian at the cafe are messed up, too. Bear in mind, I got these results with the paid version of Grok. My advice? Stick with the free version.
Free tier: Yes
Monthly pricing: $8 X Premium plan, $30 SuperGrok plan, $300 SuperGrok Heavy plan
Sign up at X, Grok, or xAI
That depends on who you ask. Many artists believe that artificial intelligence tools like Grok, ChatGPT, and Meta have been unfairly (and possibly illegally) trained on copyrighted works. Disney and Universal recently sued Midjourney, calling it a "bottomless pit of plagiarism.
Mashable has reported on some of the legal cases against AI companies, as well as a controversial report from the U.S. Copyright Office. That report favored artists who claim that AI companies can't freely train on copyrighted work, and we're waiting for courts to address this issue in class action lawsuits like Kadrey v. Meta.
Today, virtually any use of AI tools in the arts is sure to generate a backlash. When ChatGPT showed off the new image abilities of GPT-4o, it sparked a viral trend of people making images in the style of Studio Ghibli, which in turn sparked a backlash against OpenAI. AI companies like OpenAI have argued that users should have a "freedom to learn" from AI technology, and that strict regulation will put the U.S. AI industry at risk of falling behind other countries. Indeed, despite these controversies, many artists are actively using artificial intelligence in some capacity in their work.
Finally, there's the issue of deepfakes. The U.S. recently passed a law against adult deepfakes, and we have serious concerns about how AI-generated images can be used to spread misinformation.
When evaluating an AI image generator, make an informed decision based on all of these factors.
Disclosure: Ziff Davis, Mashable’s parent company, in April filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.
