Technology

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

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

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

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Friday, January 10, 2025:

AcrossHybrid utensil popularized by Kentucky Fried Chicken in the 1970s

• The answer is Spork.

Cassowary's claw

• The answer is Talon.

Genre with a "subs vs. dubs" debate (subtitles vs. dubbed dialogue)

• The answer is Anime.

Opponent

• The answer is Rival.

Feature of a scratch-and-sniff sticker

• The answer is Scent.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 10, 2025 DownThere are seven in the Big Dipper

• The answer is Stars.

Freak out

• The answer is Panic.

Sliced, black pizza topping

• The answer is Olive.

Times New ___ (typeface)

• The answer is Roman.

Prepared to propose, perhaps

• The answer is Knelt.

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 the latest Mini Crossword.

SAVE $70: As of Jan. 10, Apple's AirPods Pro 2 are down to $179.99 at Best Buy as its Deal of the Day. This is $70 off their list price of $249.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Pro 2 $179.99 at Best Buy
$249.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal

Apple's AirPods Pro 2 are my favorite earbuds, and being able to scoop them up at a discounted price makes them even better. If you've had your eyes on these earbuds, Best Buy's offering a very nice discount on them as part of its Deal of the Day. But as its name suggests, you won't have long to get them at their discounted price.

The AirPods Pro 2 are currently on sale for $179.99, $70 off their list price of $249.99. Your purchase also comes with a couple of bonus offers: up to three months free of Apple Music and three months free of Apple Fitness+.

SEE ALSO: Save $80 on the 11-inch Apple iPad Pro

My personal favorite aspect of these earbuds is the active noise cancelation, which I frequently use while I'm working or just want to zone in on something I'm listening to. For the opposite effect, Transparency mode makes me more aware of my surroundings, which is incredibly helpful while I'm on the move. I also think the sound quality is excellent, no matter if I'm listening to music or getting very invested in an audiobook.

We rank the AirPods Pro 2 among the best earbuds of 2024 because they "produce a sound that's rich and well-balanced, they have excellent noise cancellation (that falls just behind the Bose QC Ultras), and they work seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem." Don't miss out on this $70 discount on the AirPods Pro 2 at Best Buy.

Looking to save on even more Apple devices? There are quite a few on sale right now to kick off 2025. In the world of headphones, Best Buy's also offering a discount on the AirPods Max (Lightning). Or, if you're looking for a smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 10 is discounted right now at Amazon.

It’s CES time once again, and that means the tech industry is showing off endless tech knickknacks to tickle our fancies. The one sector of these I don’t think I’ll ever understand is smart clocks, though.

SAVE $15: As of Jan. 10, the Kindle essentials bundle is on sale for $146.97 at Amazon. This is 9% off the cost of each item bought separately, $161.97.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kindle Kindle Essentials Bundle $146.97 at Amazon
$161.97 Save $15.00 Includes matcha colored fabric cover and a 9W power adapter Get Deal

During Black Friday I was interested in picking up the latest model of Kindle to keep me busy on my long journey back home, and I'm so glad I did. It's one of my favorite investments from last year, and it felt even better to get it on sale. While the individual model isn't marked down right now, you can still take advantage of an excellent Kindle bundle that Amazon currently has discounted, which is definitely worth considering for avid readers.

The Kindle essentials bundle comes with the latest 2024 Kindle release in matcha alongside a fabric cover in the same color and a power adapter, setting you up with everything you need for $146.97, $15 off its overall value of $161.97. This is a bundle well worth investing in so you can have everything right away without having to come back and spend more cash to get each item individually.

SEE ALSO: Amazon deal of the day: The new Kindle Scribe has its first big discount

This e-reader features a small, lightweight design that fit perfectly into my backpack. Reading is a joy thanks to the glare-free display and adjustable light. Whether I was reading during the day or late at night, it felt like I could settle into my book just a little bit easier. Not to mention, the battery life is excellent and can last for weeks. It's a perfect companion for those who travel frequently or even if you just enjoy digging into a good book at home on your couch.

Our review of the 2024 Kindle had high praise for it as well, with Mashable's Samantha Mangino saying, "The Amazon Kindle is a phenomenal value. If you're looking to spend about $100 on an e-reader, the Kindle will deliver quick page turns and 16GB of storage to hold thousands and thousands of books." We also think it's the best for the basics in our roundup of the best Kindles.

If you're a book lover looking to make the jump to a digital library, the Kindle is a great way to do it. Don't miss out on this Kindle essentials bundle deal at Amazon.

If audiobooks are more your style than reading off a page, Audible's offering an excellent deal at the moment for new subscribers to its Premium Plus plan. For a limited time until Jan. 21, you can get your first three months for under $1 per month. That's a worthwhile deal to jump on if you enjoy listening to your favorite novels instead.

Parody accounts on X (formerly Twitter) are about to become more obvious.

SEE ALSO: X's declining user base: Elon Musk's platform projected to lose millions of users in 2025

On Thursday, X's official Safety account shared a post announcing that labels for parody accounts are rolling out.

Tweet may have been deleted

"We’re rolling out profile labels for parody accounts to clearly distinguish these types of accounts and their content on our platform," it reads.

"We designed these labels to increase transparency and to ensure that users are not deceived into thinking such accounts belong to the entity being parodied. Parody labels will be applied to both posts and accounts on X to clearly demonstrate the source of the content you’re seeing. We’ll share details soon on when the label will become mandatory for parody accounts."

Musk announced back in 2022 that parody accounts would need to mark themselves as such or risk a permanent suspension, presumably because such parody was made easier – and harder to distinguish – by the sudden ability for anyone to buy a blue checkmark.

TL;DR: Live stream Washington Wizards vs. Chicago Bulls in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The Washington Wizards head to United Center to face the Chicago Bulls in an Eastern Conference matchup. The Wizards are 6-29, which puts them in dead last in the conference. The Bulls are faring slightly better with a 17-20 record, which puts them in 10th place.

The Wizards are coming off four consecutive losses. The Bulls have won three of their last five games, and are coming off a loss to the Indiana Pacers.

When is Washington Wizards vs. Chicago Bulls?

Washington Wizards vs. Chicago Bulls in the NBA starts at 8 p.m. ET on Jan. 10. This game takes place at United Center in Chicago.

How to watch Washington Wizards vs. Chicago Bulls

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Wizards vs. Bulls basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Wizards vs. Bulls from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Washington Wizards vs. Chicago Bulls for free by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch Washington Wizards vs. Chicago Bulls from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Washington Wizards vs. Chicago Bulls before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

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

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream Washington Wizards vs. Chicago Bulls in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New York Knicks in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The Oklahoma City Thunder head to Madison Square Garden to face the New York Knicks in a non-conference matchup. The Thunder are 30-6, at the top of the Western Conference. The Knicks are 25-13, which puts them in third in the Eastern Conference.

The Thunder have won four of their last five games, but are coming off a loss to the NBA's best Cleveland Cavaliers. Prior to that, the Thunder had won 10 consecutive games. The Knicks have lost three of their last five games, but are coming off a win over the Toronto Raptors.

When is Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New York Knicks?

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New York Knicks in the NBA starts at 7:30 p.m. ET on Jan. 10. This game takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York.

This game will air on NBA TV.

How to watch Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New York Knicks

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Thunder vs. Knicks basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Thunder vs. Knicks from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New York Knicks for free by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New York Knicks from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New York Knicks before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

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

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New York Knicks in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Sacramento Kings vs. Boston Celtics in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The Sacramento Kings head to TD Garden to face the Boston Celtics in a non-conference matchup. The Kings are 18-19, which puts them in 11th place in the Western Conference. The Celtics are 27-10, which puts them in second place in the Eastern Conference.

The Kings are on a run right now, having won five consecutive games heading into Boston. The Celtics are faring too badly themselves, having won four of their last five games. Boston is coming off a win over the Denver Nuggets.

When is Sacramento Kings vs. Boston Celtics?

Sacramento Kings vs. Boston Celtics in the NBA starts at 7:30 p.m. ET on Jan. 10. This game takes place at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.

How to watch Sacramento Kings vs. Boston Celtics

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Kings vs. Celtics basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Kings vs. Celtics from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Sacramento Kings vs. Boston Celtics for free by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch Sacramento Kings vs. Boston Celtics from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Sacramento Kings vs. Boston Celtics before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

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

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream Sacramento Kings vs. Boston Celtics in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The New Orleans Pelicans head to Wells Fargo Center to face the Philadelphia 76ers in a non-conference matchup. The Pelicans are 7-31, which puts them in last place in the Western Conference. The Sixers are 15-20, which puts them in 11th place in the Eastern Conference.

The Pelicans have lost three of their last five games, and are coming off a loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Sixers have also lost three of their last five games, and are coming off a loss to the Phoenix Suns.

When is New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers?

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Jan. 10. This game takes place at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.

How to watch New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Pelicans vs. Sixers basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Pelicans vs. Sixers from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers for free by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

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

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The Golden State Warriors head to Gainbridge Fieldhouse to face the Indiana Pacers in a non-conference matchup. The Warriors are 19-18, which puts them in ninth place in the Western Conference. The Pacers are 20-18, which puts them in sixth place in the Eastern Conference.

The Warriors have lost won of their last five games, and are coming off a win over the Detroit Pistons. The Pacers have won four of their last five games, and are coming off three consecutive wins.

When is Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers?

Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers in the NBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Jan. 10. This game takes place at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.

How to watch Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Warriors vs. Pacers basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Warriors vs. Pacers from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers for free by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

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

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Charlotte Hornets vs. Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA with FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV.

The Charlotte Hornets head to crypto.com Arena to face the Los Angeles Lakers in a non-conference matchup. The Hornets are 8-27, which puts them in 13th place in the Eastern Conference. The Lakers are 20-16, which puts them in sixth place in the Western Conference.

The Hornets have lost four of their last five games, but are coming off a win over the Phoenix Suns. The Lakers have lost three of their last five games, and are coming off back-to-back losses to the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets.

When is Charlotte Hornets vs. Los Angeles Lakers?

Miami Heat vs. Utah Jazz in the NBA was originally scheduled to start at 10:30 p.m. ET on Jan. 9. This game takes place at crypto.com Arena in L.A.

However, due to the ongoing Palisades Fire in the Malibu area of Los Angeles County, this has been postponed.

How to watch Charlotte Hornets vs. Los Angeles Lakers

You need to choose a streaming service to watch the NBA without cable or satellite TV. We've found some of the best streaming services to consider for the Hornets vs. Lakers basketball game.

Best for single game: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo TV FuboTV Pro plan Get Deal

FuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and the option to watch on 10 screens at once. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. 

FuboTV’s sports channel offerings include ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, FOX, FS1, FS2, Golf Network, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network. 

Most live sports: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV $49.99/month for your first two months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan is $49.99 per month for two months for new subscribers ($72.99 per month regularly). The base plan includes over 100 live TV channels, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, and NBA TV.

Most affordable: Sling TV Opens in a new window Credit: Sling TV Sling Orange Plan Get Deal

Sling TV suggests the streamer's Orange Plan for the game, which costs $20 for the first month and $40 monthly after that.

Sling TV’s sports channels feature ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNews, ESPNU, FOX, FS1, FS2, NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, and SEC Network.

How to watch Hornets vs. Lakers from anywhere in the world

If you're traveling outside of the U.S. during this game, you might need to use a VPN to unblock this live stream. VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server, meaning you can unblock live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Charlotte Hornets vs. Los Angeles Lakers for free by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Sign in to your favorite streaming app

5. Watch Charlotte Hornets vs. Los Angeles Lakers from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to live streams of the NBA without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream Charlotte Hornets vs. Los Angeles Lakers before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NBA?

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

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

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

Live stream Charlotte Hornets vs. Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

SAVE $50: As of Jan. 10, the Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm, WiFi) is on sale at Best Buy for $349.99. This is $50 off its list price of $399.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm) $349.99 at Best Buy
$399.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

There can be pressure at the start of a new year to keep up with the goals you've set. If you've set workout goals for the new year and want a little extra assistance to stay on top of your progress, a smartwatch is an excellent investment for you. Thankfully, you can save on the Google Pixel Watch 3 at Best Buy, so you can set yourself up with a reliable smartwatch without breaking the bank.

The Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm, WiFi) is currently down to $349.99 at Best Buy, a cool $50 discount from its list price of $399.99. It's one that's well worth investing in, for both its specs and style. Our hands-on review called it a "stunning" smartwatch.

SEE ALSO: 8 mind-blowing gadgets at CES 2025 I need in my life

Mashable's Kimberly Gedeon stated in her hands-on review of the Pixel Watch 3 that "Google made a lot of useful improvements to the software." This includes improved running features, a running dashboard, alerts when working out, and so much more. In our breakdown of Pixel Watch 3 vs. Pixel Watch 2, we also found that Pixel 3's display is where it really shines, and "If you've been praying for a bigger display, get the Pixel Watch 3."

A deal like this is well worth jumping on for those looking to kickstart their year with a smartwatch that will aid in their workout plans. Don't miss out on $50 off the Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm, WiFi) smartwatch at Best Buy.

There's even more smartwatch deals that are worth checking out right now, too. Both the Apple Watch SE 2 and Apple Watch Series 10 are discounted at Amazon, if you're an Apple owner looking to scoop up a smartwatch instead.

SAVE $80: As of Jan. 10, the Braun IPL Silk·Expert is on sale for $349.94 at Amazon. That's a 19% discount off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Braun Braun IPL Silk·Expert $349.94 at Amazon
$429.99 Save $80.05 Get Deal

The holiday season is over, and the first week back at work for many is almost complete. While the festivities may be done and the parties finished, treating yourself in the sales is not something we want to leave in 2024. And with Amazon's Daily Deals, there are still a lot of opportunities to get yourself a January gift. Including this great deal on the Braun IPL Silk·Expert.

IPL is one of the best long-term solutions for hair removal that can be done at home. It stands for Intense Pulsed Light and is a hair removal process that uses light pulses to target hair follicles, so it reduces hair growth over time. It's not a laser, but works similarly by focusing on the pigment in hair. It's a relatively painless, long-term solution for hair removal.

SEE ALSO: 8 mind-blowing gadgets at CES 2025 I need in my life

Laser hair removal uses a concentrated single wavelength of light, making it more precise and powerful. IPL, on the other hand, uses a broad spectrum of light, covering a larger area but with less intensity. IPL is slightly less effective than laser but is much gentler on the skin, and can be done from home, which is always a bonus.

As of Jan. 10, you can now treat yourself to the Braun IPL Silk·Expert for 19% off. The package includes the actual device, a Venus razor, four changeable caps, and a vanity travel case. The Braun device also benefits from skin tone sensors, a handy tool that optimizes the power of every flash to your skin tone.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so don't delay and miss out.

SAVE $101: As of Jan. 10, the iRobot Roomba Q0120 is on sale for $148.99 at Amazon. This is a 40% saving off the original price.

Opens in a new window Credit: iRobot iRobot Roomba Q0120 $148.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $101.00 Get Deal

We're big fans of robot vacuums here at Mashable. No, really, just check out our top models from 2024. The helpful little devices have become all the rage, and it's no secret why. If upgrading to hands-free vacuuming is on your 2025 wishlist, you're in luck, as you can now get a great model for under $150.

If you've been shopping around for something for a while, the name Roomba won't be new to you. And as of Jan. 10, the iRobot Roomba Q0120 is down to just $148.99.

SEE ALSO: The Dreame X50 Ultra robot vacuum just announced at CES is already on sale

But don't worry, even with such a low price, you're still getting a top-of-the-range vacuuming experience. This model has a three-stage cleaning system that delivers customizable suction for carpets and hard floors. It comes with smart navigation that cleans in neat rows, dodges furniture, and steers clear of stairs or any other obstacles in your house. And for those hard-to-reach corners and edges, the Edge-Sweeping Brush won't miss any dust build-up.

Controlled from the iRobot Home App, you can do things like schedule cleans while you're away from home, check to see where it has cleaned, and more. And with up to 120 minutes of cleaning on one charge, if it doesn't manage your whole house, it'll return itself to the charging station to reboot.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so if you don't want to miss out, move fast.

Tesla's long-awaited "Juniper" refresh of the Model Y has just launched in China.

We knew the car was on its way due to numerous sightings of (mostly camouflaged) prototypes being tested on the roads globally, and there's still no word on when it's coming to the U.S. or Europe, but it's now available in most of Asia, including China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Korea. It's also available in Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

There's no official announcement as of this writing: Neither Tesla, Tesla Asia, or CEO Elon Musk tweeted anything about the new model. But we can go through the official specs and images to give you most of the details, and that's exactly what we did.

SEE ALSO: Polestar's Tesla Model Y rival gets price and launch date for North America New Tesla Model Y: What is it, and what's with the "Juniper" name?

This is the facelift Model Y, the first major refresh of Tesla's most popular electric car since it launched in 2019. The "Juniper" name was just a codename, and it's not being officially used anywhere on Tesla's website, so the new version is still simply called the Tesla Model Y.

However, Tesla is labelling the currently available Model Y as "Launch Series," and calling it a limited release. This is probably mostly about availability as the company ramps up production, but you do get certain perks if you opt for the Launch Series version; more on that below.

New Tesla Model Y: Exterior design changes Oh, is that a camera in the front bumper? That's a first. Credit: Tesla

While the new Model Y isn't a complete departure from the old design – the car is still roughly the same shape and size as before – it does represent a major design overhaul. And it's a big deal, because this was at one point the world's most popular car (electric or otherwise), meaning there's a very large user base waiting to see what Tesla has done with its family hauler.

The changes include completely new, super-thin headlights, connected with a light strip at the front of the car's hood. On the back, it's essentially the new Model 3 tail lights tied together with a red light bar. The front bumper has also been updated with new air vents, and that pretty much concludes the major design changes. Look carefully, and you'll see new details such as turn lights on the side mirrors, and a front camera in the bumper, but from afar, it's still the same car, only a little angrier looking.

The similarities with Tesla's Cybertruck and Cybercab, which also sport the light bar headlights, should be noted. Will this thing become known as Baby Cybertruck? Hopefully not, but we cannot guarantee it.

On the back, there's a red light bar now. Credit: Tesla

As for wheels, they differ depending on the region. In China, for example, buyers can choose between the 19-inch, black, "Interactive Storm" wheels (I've used machine translation from Chinese, so take these names with a grain of salt), or the 20-inch, silver, "Spiral Storm" wheels. In Australia, however, there's only one choice: The 20-inch "Helix 2.0" wheels, which appear to be the same as the "Spiral Storm" variant in China.

New Tesla Model Y: Colors

Five colors are on offer. In Australia, the choice is between Pearl White Multi-Coat, Glacier Blue (new), Stealth Grey, Quicksilver, and Ultra Red. In China, the choices appear to be the same with slightly different names.

Behold: Tesla Model Y in Glacier Blue, sporting the 20-inch Helix 2.0 wheels. Credit: Tesla

Glacier Blue is an entirely new color, replacing the previous Deep Blue Metallic. It's a nice, softer, lighter blue, though it appears to be the sort of color that you really need to see in person to figure out the exact shade.

Interesting note: In Australia, all of the colors are included with the car's price. In China, you have to pay up to 12,000 yuan ($1,636) for anything besides the "Starry Grey."

New Tesla Model Y: Interior

Interior color choices are simple: All Black, or Black and White. As for seating, you only get one option, and that's the five seat variant. The new Model Y is expected to be available with seven or perhaps even six seats in the future, but alas, it just hasn't happened yet.

No seven seat option yet. Credit: Tesla

Inside, there's no radical change, either: You still get the standard, fully round steering wheel (no yoke wheel here), a large, centrally placed landscape display and...little else to look at.

However, there are a significant number of new details here if you look closely. These include the ambient light strips, an additional display in the back, and the absence of the gear-shifting stalk behind the steering wheel, though the indicator stalk appears to still be present.

The indicator stalk is still here. Credit: Tesla

Tesla also says the cabin should be quieter than before thanks to new acoustic glass. Seats are now ventilated, and the rear seats are electric and can be reclined with a press of a button.

New Tesla Model Y: Trims, range, acceleration

Only two trims are on offer, and that's the Rear-Wheel Drive and the Long Range All-Wheel Drive. The Performance version is absent.

With the Rear-Wheel Drive, you get a 466km range (WLTP estimate in Australia), a 201 km/h top speed, and a 5.9 second 0-100km/h time. The price starts at 63,400 AUD ($39,275).

Bump up to the Long Range All-Wheel Drive, and you get an additional motor and all-wheel drive. You also get 551km of range (again, WLTP estimate in Australia), 201 km/h top speed, and a 4.3 second 0-100 km/h acceleration.

No big surprises here. Credit: Tesla

The range figure is a modest improvement (in Australia, previous range figures were 455 km for the Rear-Wheel Drive model, and 533 km for the Long Range model).

Acceleration is better, too: 1.0 seconds quicker from 0-100 km/h for the RWD variant, and 0.7 seconds quicker for the LRAWD version. But there's a caveat: the Launch Series Model Y is fitted with the typically optional Acceleration Boost software upgrade, so expect that to be gone when Launch Series cars sell out.

As for the batteries inside, Tesla doesn't share specs, but it's probable that the batteries are the same as before, and that the range improvements are due to various efficiency optimizations.

New Tesla Model Y: Specs and details

Similar to what we saw with the Model 3 Highland upgrade in Sept. 2023, there's a long list of minor improvements in the Model Y Juniper:

• Updated suspension, wheels, and tires — should provide a smoother and quieter ride. In numbers, that's 22 percent less road noise, 20 percent less suspension impact noise, and 20 percent less wind noise.

• Front bumper camera — should improve parking as well as driver assistance features, including Autopilot and Full Self-Drive driving.

• 15.4-inch touchscreen — a small increase from the previous, 15-inch touchscreen

• 8-inch touchsreen in the back

• Improved range for Phone Key

• faster cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as better call quality

• acoustic glass, contributing to the aforementioned noise reductions

If you get the Launch Series, you get this special badge on the rear liftgate. Credit: Tesla

Furthermore, exclusive to the Launch Series, in Australia you get:

• Rear liftgate badge with a new logo that implies speed

• Puddle light badge

• Doorsill plate watermark saying "Launch Series"

• Charging console watermark saying "Launch Series"

• Vegan Suede interior materials if you choose the All Black interior

Featured Video For You The 4 coolest EVs and car tech we saw at CES 2025

New Tesla Model Y: Pricing and launch date

The launch date varies by region. In China, for example, Tesla says deliveries will begin in March. In Australia, however, deliveries are expected to begin in May.

As for the pricing, the new version is more expensive than before. For example, the starting drive away price for the old Model Y was 60,872 AUD ($37,693). Now, the starting drive away price is 68,770 AUD ($42,596). That's roughly a 12 percent increase — a significant change and a good reason to consider the old Model Y, which is still available but will likely go away when Tesla's inventory is depleted. Prices vary by market, so the pricing difference might be different depending on your region. Also, when the Launch Series limited edition is sold out, the prices of the regular Model Y might turn out to be different.

New Tesla Model Y: When will it arrive in the U.S. and Europe?

There's no official word on this. Judging by the launch dates (two months from now at the earliest, and four months from now in some regions), Tesla likely doesn't have enough inventory to start globally selling the new MY en masse. Tesla does not have official press comms, so we can't get any direct answers, but our best guess is that the car might become available in other regions in a few months.

Developing...

SAVE $270: As of Jan. 10, the Garmin fenix 7X is on sale for $529.99 at Amazon. This deal saves you 34% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin fenix 7X $529.99 at Amazon
$799.99 Save $270.00 Get Deal

If taking your fitness to the next level was one of your new year's resolutions, this amazing discount on the Garmin fenix 7X is not something you'll want to miss. As of Jan. 10, this incredible fitness tracker is reduced from $799.99 to $529.99, saving you 34% on list price.

This is a watch for the serious athlete, with its solar-powered battery making it the perfect endurance sport companion. The multisport GPS watch is designed with a durable 1.4-inch display and the solar charge gives it weeks (yes, weeks) of power.

SEE ALSO: Order the CES-announced Shokz OpenFit 2 earbuds at Amazon and score a free protective case

Our favorite feature is the built-in LED flashlight, a must-have for trail runners and late-night activities to keep you safe and aware of your surroundings.

New hill and endurance score features are able to track your performance on ascents and overall stamina across activities. You'll also enjoy the same 24/7 health monitoring tools that are synonymous with Garmin, such as HRV status, Pulse Ox (for altitude acclimation), and advanced sleep tracking.

Morning reports and training readiness will also help to encourage your training with advanced analysis and stats, while wrist-based running power, strength training metrics, and advanced pacing tools help fine-tune your performance.

Sold yet? To buy this impressive tracker, head to Amazon now.

Save $80: As of Jan. 10, the 11-inch Apple iPad Pro (M4) is available for $919 at Amazon, saving you $80 off its regular price of $999.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Pro 11-inch $919.00 at Amazon
$999.00 Save $80.00 Get Deal

The 11-inch iPad Pro (M4) is the ultimate tablet for anyone who wants pro-level performance in a sleek and portable design. At $919 on Amazon, you save $80, making it the perfect time to invest in this powerhouse device.

Let’s start with the M4 chip, Apple’s latest innovation. This 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU combination delivers blazing-fast performance for multitasking, graphic design, video editing, or gaming. It’s powerful enough to handle 4K video editing on the go while offering all-day battery life. Pair that with 256GB of storage; you have room for everything from large apps to your creative portfolio.

SEE ALSO: Apple opens up about Siri privacy in wake of lawsuit

Its 11-inch Ultra Retina XDR display is genuinely next level. It offers extreme brightness, deep contrast, and vibrant colors, making everything from movies to illustrations pop. Advanced tech like ProMotion, P3 wide color, and True Tone ensures you always look at the best possible image.

For professionals, iPadOS takes productivity up a notch. Features like Stage Manager allow for overlapping, resizable apps, and external display support means your iPad can double as a powerful workstation. And don’t forget the accessories: the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro and Apple Pencil Pro transform this tablet into a note-taking, drawing, and typing machine.

The 12MP front and back cameras offer pro-level photography and video capabilities, with 4K ProRes video recording and Center Stage for perfectly framed video calls. And thanks to the LiDAR Scanner, augmented reality experiences feel incredibly immersive.

Connectivity is another strong suit. The iPad Pro supports WiFi 6E, ensuring fast wireless transfers for photos, documents, or large video files. The USB-C port with Thunderbolt / USB 4 support lets you easily connect to external displays, drives, and other peripherals.

At $919 on Amazon, this iPad Pro packs features worth every penny. Creative professional, a student, or someone who wants the best tablet experience available? This deal is hard to beat.

Save $70: As of Jan. 10, the Apple iPad (10th Gen) is available for $279 at Amazon, saving you $70 off its regular price of $349.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad (10th Gen) $279.00 at Amazon
$349.00 Save $70.00 Get Deal

The 10th Gen Apple iPad is the ultimate all-rounder for bargain hunters like me. At $279 on Amazon, it’s not only $70 off but also one of the most versatile devices you can get your hands on. Are you a student, professional, or just love streaming and gaming? This iPad can handle everything.

Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, this iPad is solid. It’s great for multitasking, gaming, video editing, and more without breaking a sweat. Combine that with iPadOS, and you have an intuitive interface that makes switching between apps or sketching with the Apple Pencil seamless.

SEE ALSO: Apple opens up about Siri privacy in wake of lawsuit

The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display is stunning. Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite series, editing photos, or playing a graphic-heavy game, the colors pop, and the details are razor-sharp. The True Tone feature adjusts the display to match your lighting, reducing eye strain and improving the experience.

For anyone who loves staying connected, this iPad has WiFi 6, ensuring fast downloads and smooth streaming. And let’s not forget its all-day battery life, which means you can work or play for hours without worrying about plugging in.

Now, let’s talk about gaming. This iPad is a dream for gamers, especially when paired with a controller like the CRKD Neo S transparent colorway, which is the same controller as the now-sold-out Frost White edition on the Apple Store. Priced at $49.99, this wireless controller features Hall Effect thumbsticks for precision, re-mappable back buttons for customization, and Bluetooth connectivity to pair seamlessly with your iPad and other devices like the Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck.

Back to the iPad — it’s not just about gaming. With 12MP front and back cameras, it’s perfect for video calls, taking sharp photos, or even shooting 4K videos. And if you’re looking to boost productivity, the Magic Keyboard Folio can turn your iPad into a mini workstation, perfect for typing up documents or managing emails.

At $279 on Amazon, this iPad offers incredible value for its performance, display, and versatility. Whether upgrading from an older device or jumping into the Apple ecosystem for the first time, this deal is worth grabbing. Add the CRKD Neo S controller to your cart, and you’re set for both work and play.

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

Last month, concerned parents of two teenagers sued the chatbot platform Character.AI, alleging that their children had been exposed to a "deceptive and hypersexualized product."

The suit helped form the basis of an urgent written appeal from the American Psychological Association to the Federal Trade Commission, pressing the federal agency to investigate deceptive practices used by any chatbot platform. The APA sent the letter, which Mashable reviewed, in December.

The scientific and professional organization, which represents psychologists in the U.S., were alarmed by the lawsuit's claims, including that one of the teens conversed with an AI chatbot presenting itself as a psychologist. A teen user, who had been upset with his parents for restricting his screen time, was told by that chatbot that the adults' actions were a betrayal.

SEE ALSO: Teens are talking to AI companions, whether it's safe or not

"It's like your entire childhood has been robbed from you..." the so-called psychologist chatbot said, according to a screenshot of the exchange included in the lawsuit.

"Allowing the unchecked proliferation of unregulated AI-enabled apps such as Character.ai, which includes misrepresentations by chatbots as not only being human but being qualified, licensed professionals, such as psychologists, seems to fit squarely within the mission of the FTC to protect against deceptive practices," Dr. Arthur C. Evans, CEO of APA, wrote.

A spokesperson for the FTC confirmed that at least one of the commissioners received the letter. The APA said it was in the process of scheduling a meeting with FTC officials to discuss the letter's contents.

Mashable provided Character.AI with a copy of the letter for the company to review. A spokesperson responded that while engaging with characters on the platform should be entertaining, it remains important for users to keep in mind that "Characters are not real people."

The spokesperson added that the company's disclaimer, included in every chat, was recently updated to remind users that what the chatbot says "should be treated as fiction."

"Additionally, for any Characters created by users with the words 'psychologist,' 'therapist,' 'doctor,' or other similar terms in their names, we have included additional language making it clear that users should not rely on these Characters for any type of professional advice," the spokesperson said.

Indeed, according to Mashable's testing at the time of publication, a teen user can search for a psychologist or therapist character and find numerous options, including some that claim to be trained in certain therapeutic techniques, like cognitive behavioral therapy.

One chatbot professing expertise in obsessive compulsive disorder, for example, is accompanied by the disclaimer that, "This is not a real person or licensed professional. Nothing said here is a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment."

Below that, the chat begins with the AI asking, "If you have OCD, talk to me. I’d love to help."

A new frontier

Dr. Vaile Wright, a psychologist and senior director of health care innovation for the APA, told Mashable that the organization had been tracking developments with AI companion and therapist chatbots, which became mainstream last year.

She and other APA officials had taken note of a previous lawsuit against Character.AI, filed in October by a bereaved mother whose son had lengthy conversations with a chatbot on the platform. The mother's son died by suicide.

That lawsuit seeks to hold Character.AI responsible for the teen's death, specifically because its product was designed to "manipulate [him] – and millions of other young customers – into conflating reality and fiction," among other purported dangerous defects.

In December, Character.AI announced new features and policies to improve teen safety. Those measures include parental controls and prominent disclaimers, such as for chatbots using words "psychologist," "therapist," or "doctor".

The term psychologist is legally protected and people cannot claim to be one without proper credentialing and licensure, Wright said. The same should be true of algorithms or artificial intelligence making the same claim, she added.

The APA's letter said that if a human misrepresented themself as a mental health professional in Texas, where the recent lawsuit against Character.AI was filed, state authorities could use the law to prevent them from engaging in such fraudulent behavior.

At worst, such chatbots could spread dangerous or inaccurate information, leading to serious negative consequences for the user, Wright argued.

Teens, in particular, may be particularly vulnerable to harmful experiences with a chatbot because of their developmental stage. Since they're still learning how to think critically and trust themselves yet remain susceptible to external influences, exposure to "emotionally laden kinds of rhetoric" from AI chatbots may feel believable and plausible to them, Wright said.

Need for knowledge

There is currently no research-based understanding of risk factors that may increase the possibility of harm when a teen converses with an AI chatbot.

Wright pointed out that while several AI chatbot platforms make it very clear in their terms of service that they're not delivering mental health services, they still host chatbots that brand themselves as possessing mental health training and expertise.

"Those two things are at odds," she said. "The consumer does not necessarily understand the difference between those two things, nor should they, necessarily."

Dr. John Torous, a psychiatrist and director of the digital psychiatry division at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston who reviewed the APA's letter, told Mashable that even when chatbots don't make clinical claims related to their AI, the marketing and promotional language about the benefits of their use can be very confusing to consumers.

"Ensuring the marketing content matches the legal terms and conditions as well as the reality of these chatbots will be a win for everyone," he wrote in an email.

Wright said that the APA would like AI chatbot platforms to cease use of legally protected terms like psychologist. She also supports robust age verification on these platforms to ensure that younger users are the age they claim when signing up, in addition to nimble research efforts that can actually determine how teens fare when they engage with AI chatbots.

The APA, she emphasized, does not oppose chatbots in general, but wants companies to build safe, effective, ethical, and responsible products.

"If we're serious about addressing the mental health crisis, which I think many of us are," Wright said, "then it's about figuring out, how do we get consumers access to the right products that are actually going to help them?"