Technology

Digital Wellbeing is Android's tool for curing your smartphone addiction. It might work for some people, but it can also make the problem worse. Instead of breaking bad habits, it often replaces them with new ones, giving you more numbers to obsess over and features that create the illusion of control without changing your behavior.

SAVE $90: The Skullcandy Crusher Evo headphones are on sale for $109.99 at Amazon, down from the list price of $199.99. That's a major 45% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Skullcandy Skullcandy Crusher Evo $109.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $90.00 Get Deal

A solid pair of headphones can truly make a world of difference. For instance, when you're trying to concentrate and the neighbor's dog spots a squirrel and starts barking, or when you're on a plane and the loudest passengers are seated behind you. Pop on some headphones and you can tune it all out with ease. Unfortunately, good headphones that can drown out annoyances can be expensive. But not this Skullcandy deal we spotted today.

As of Sept. 4, the Skullcandy Crusher Evo headphones are $109.99 at Amazon, marked down from the standard price of $199.99. That's a 45% discount that shaves $90 off the norm.

Skullcandy launched the Crusher Evo headphones back in 2020, and Mashable Tech Reporter Alex Perry was impressed in his review. "Skullcandy's latest Crusher Evo headphones are a nice option to have for people who want over-ear headphones without spending a fortune on them," Perry wrote. "The onboard bass slider is more than just a goofy novelty, providing plenty of thump that you just don't get from the competition. It's a unique sensation to feel like you have a subwoofer on your head."

Skullcandy also knocked it out of the park with other aspects of the Crusher Evo. For one, the headphones have a built-in Bluetooth tracker. That's right — there's a Tile tracker inside the headphones, so you won't need to use one of your trackers on your headphones, and instead can attach it to your dog.

The battery life of the Skullycandy Crusher Evo headphones is also noteworthy, with the brand saying you can get up to 40 hours of listening time before needing a recharge. A 10-minute recharge will gain you an extra four hours of battery life.

SEE ALSO: The 8 best budget headphones we've tested under $100

There's also a Personal Sound function in the Skullcandy app that allows you to customize your listening experience. "Flipping Personal Sound on and off in the middle of a song highlights the effect, as more subtle instrumental elements that are tougher to notice with default settings rise up to make themselves known with Personal Sound turned on," explained Perry.

The headphones are also ideal for travel, since they're lightweight and have a foldable and collapsible design. Plus, traveling with headphones that didn't cost over $400 is always a good idea.

While they're on sale for under $110, snag the Skullcandy Crusher Evo headphones. They come with impressive sound quality and a built-in tracking device. This sale price extends to the white, grey, and black colorway options.

As we approach the Full Moon, each night the moon will appear bigger and brighter, but after the Full Moon passes, it will slowly get darker and darker until there's nothing to see. This is to do with the lunar cycle.

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

So, let's see what's happening with the moon tonight, Sept. 4.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Thursday, Sept. 4, the moon phase is Waxing Gibbous, and 88% will be lit up to us on Earth, according to NASA's Daily Moon Observation.

Tonight, even without any visual aids, you can spot the Mare Imbrium, Mare Serenitatis, and the Tycho Crater. With binoculars, try to catch the Alphonsus and Gassendi craters, along with the Mare Frigoris. If you have a telescope, you’ll be able to glimpse features like the Apollo 15 and Apollo 17 landing sites, as well as the Descartes Highlands.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will be on Sept. 7. The last full moon was on Aug. 9.

What are moon phases?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Linux Mint has officially released Linux Mint 22.2, codenamed Zara. This update brings a new fingerprint authentication app called Fingwit, significant improvements to the Hypnotix media player with new viewing modes, and a subtle but modern color palette refresh for the default theme.

If you've wanted to try FreeBSD, but have been put off by its supposed difficulty or lack of a standard live version, GhostBSD tries to fill that gap with a live environment with a slick interface. Should you give it a try? This article will try to answer that question.

SAVE UP TO $60: Through Sept. 18, Paramount+ annual plans are half price for your first year. New and returning subscribers can sign up for the Paramount+ Essential plan for just $29.99 (reg. $59.99) or the Paramount+ Premium plan for $59.99 (reg. $119.99). That's 50% off whichever plan you choose.

Plan pricing: Special offer Paramount+ Premium annual plan $59.99 for your first year (save $60) Get Deal Special offer Paramount+ Essential annual plan $29.99 for your first year (save $30) Get Deal

While every other streaming service seems to be raising its prices, Paramount+ is lowering theirs — at least for the next two weeks.

Through Sept. 18, new and returning subscribers can sign up for a Paramount+ annual plan for half price. That brings the Paramount+ Essential plan down to just $29.99 for your first year (reg. $59.99) and the Paramount+ Premium plan down to just $59.99 for your first year (reg. $119.99). Whichever option you choose, you'll save 50%. And for what it's worth, that breaks down to just $2.50 or $5 per month.

We recommend going with the Premium tier, as you'll get a whole lot more bang for your buck. Plus, it's currently the same price as the Essential tier is on a normal day. The Premium tier includes ad-free viewing; access to the entire Showtime library; the ability to stream CBS live and download movies and shows for offline viewing; and 4K, UHD, Dolby Vision, and HDR10 quality. You'll be able to stream in-market NFL Sunday afternoon games live on the app, as well as new episodes of Big Brother and FBI as they air in real time.

Paramount+ Premium is also where you can watch shows like Dexter: Resurrection, Yellowjackets, RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars, Criminal Minds Evolution, and South Park, as well as popular movies like Smile 2, Gladiator II, and Love Me.

Just remember that the annual cost will jump back up to full price (either $59.99 or $119.99) after your first year. As long as you cancel ahead of that deadline, you'll avoid automatic renewal charges.

Whether you're hoping to diversify your streaming lineup, watch as many NFL games as you can without spending a fortune, or just lock in a really great price, head to Paramount+ before Sept. 18 to get the deal.

When most people think of a Spike Lee movie, or a “Spike Lee joint,” it’s usually one of these iconic shots that come to mind: Denzel as Malcolm X floating through the air on his way to the Audubon Ballroom, Troy in Crooklyn floating up into the sky, or Philip Seymore Hoffman rolling through the club in the 25th Hour. All of these films showcase the dreamy, emotional effect of Spike Lee’s double dolly shot. But what is the double dolly shot?

Highest 2 Lowest is streaming on Apple TV+ starting September 5th.

ORDER AND SAVE ON SEPT. 12: Narwal announced the Freo Z10 Ultra robot vacuum and mop combo on Sept. 4. It will be available to purchase at early bird pricing of $899 starting Sept. 12, but will eventually retail for $1,299 after Sept. 28.

Opens in a new window Credit: Narwal Narwal Freo Z10 Ultra $899 at Narwal
$1,299 Save $400 Learn More

A gray self-emptying robot vacuum is huge news for anyone who's trying to match stainless steel appliances. But the new Narwal robot vacuum and mop combo is advertising more than living space cohesion. Officially announced on Sept. 4 (less than a month after Dreame unveiled several new robot vacuums), the Narwal Freo Z10 Ultra will be available to buy for $899 on Sept. 12. That price will bump up to its true MSRP of $1,299 after Sept. 28. My test unit arrived the night before the announcement — here are my first thoughts to spark your consideration until then.

The self-empty dock can hold four months' worth of debris — the largest capacity I've ever seen in a robot vac. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

Aside from one cheap Shark robot vacuum I tested last year, I rarely come across robot vacuums that aren't white or black — Narwal was smart to bet on millennial gray. The rotundness of the dock is mostly due to massive water tanks for extended self-maintenance, but that probably takes this model out of the running for the best robot vacuums for small spaces (and because it'd take herculean effort to drag up a walk-up). The touchscreen on the lid is a nice touch for those who don't want to use an app all the time.

SEE ALSO: Shark vs. Roomba: Comparing top-rated robot vacuum lineups

The Z10 Ultra seems to focus heavily on adaptive cleaning, a theme I first appreciated about the last Narwal robot vacuum I tested: the CleanTok darling Freo X Ultra. One of my favorite tips to make a robot vacuum work better is to send it for two cleaning passes instead of one. This might seem obvious, but many apps require too much toggling to find that setting. However, the Narwal Freo Z10 Ultra shouldn't even require that. Its whole thing is game-time decisions, calling on dual RGB sensors and dual AI chips to read the room in real time and approach messes and obstacles accordingly. For instance, if a liquid spill is detected, the Freo Z10 Ultra will allegedly alter its mopping and water flow strategy.

I'm particularly intrigued by the triangular spinning mopping pads here. They extend out from under the vacuum like several other mopping robot vacuums out there, but will this wonky shape actually mop corners better than, say, the Roborock Saros 10R?

Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

The Freo Z10 Ultra's 18,000 Pa of suction power isn't groundbreaking, but it is in line with the other best robot vacuums of the $1,000+ price range. The Roborock Saros 10 and Saros 10R that I always recommend hit 22,000 Pa and 20,000 Pa, respectively, and both retail for $300 more than the Freo Z10 Ultra. It also beats the regular Freo Z10's 15,000 Pa and destroys the Freo X Ultra's 8,200 Pa. To me, a vacuum doesn't need the absolute best stats on paper to be a worthwhile purchase. Consistent attention to detail is just as crucial to the automated experience, and the Freo Z10 Ultra could be a pretty value-packed vacuum cleaner for picky people like me.

When you’re learning about new concepts, it’s always helpful to have practical examples and projects to work on. The Spotify API is a great introduction to Web APIs in general. With it, you can easily build simple utilities that carry out various music-related tasks.

I grew up on Bond movies, so seeing a video game tackle the character’s early years has me more than a little curious. IO Interactive, the team behind Hitman: World of Assassination, is stepping into the world of MI6 with 007 First Light.

Instead of the seasoned spy we all know, this game gives us a young James Bond who is still rough around the edges. He is cocky, reckless, and just starting to find out what kind of agent he will become. The game launches March 27, 2026, on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.

SEE ALSO: 'Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Mirror Edition' comes to PS5 and Xbox Series X: Release date and price info

Preorders are open now, and there are a couple of different editions depending on how far you want to go with this game.

Standard Edition

The Standard Edition is priced at $69.99 across every platform. On PlayStation and Xbox you can choose between physical discs or digital downloads. PC players can pick it up on Steam or the Epic Games Store. The Switch 2 version is a little different. Like a lot of third party games on Nintendo’s new system, it comes as a card that serves more like a key. You insert the card, download the game, and you need that card in the system when you want to play. It is not a traditional cartridge but it still works like a physical copy in that you can lend it to a friend or trade it in.

• 007 First Light for PlayStation 5 — $69.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, Walmart)

• 007 First Light for Xbox Series X — $69.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, Walmart)

• 007 First Light for Nintendo Switch 2 — $69.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, Walmart)

• 007 First Light for PC — $69.99 (Epic Games, Steam)

Preordering the Standard Edition still comes with a few extras. Digital versions include 24 hours of early access, so you can start playing on March 26 instead of March 27. Every preorder also gets the Deluxe Edition upgrade, which adds four outfits, one weapon skin, and a pack of shiny gadget cosmetics. Two bonus skins are part of this too, the Golden Gun and the Obsidian Gold Suit.

Legacy Collector’s Edition

The Legacy Edition is the premium option. It costs $299.99 and is available physically for PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC. It comes with the game itself, a steel case with a magnetic closure, a certificate of authenticity, and most notably a Golden Gun figurine complete with a display stand and secret compartment. The same preorder bonuses that come with the Standard Edition are included here as well.

• 007 First Light Legacy Collectors Edition for PlayStation 5 — $299.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop)

• 007 First Light Collectors Edition for Xbox Series X — $299.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop)

• 007 First Light Collectors Edition for PC — $299.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop)

That Golden Gun replica is clearly the draw. Bond fans will recognize it as one of the most iconic weapons in the franchise’s history. It is a collectible piece that makes this edition more about having something to display than just what is on the disc.

What kind of game is 007 First Light

IO Interactive is calling First Light a narrative action adventure. You play as a rookie James Bond chasing down a rogue MI6 agent known only as 009. From what we have seen, the story takes Bond across varied locations that range from mountains and waterfronts to nightclubs, rooftops, and public squares. There are also boat chases and cars to drive. Missions seem to allow for multiple approaches. You can lean on stealth and gadgets to slip through quietly or go loud with gunfire if you want to embrace the license to kill. If you have played IO’s Hitman games, you will probably recognize that philosophy of choice.

What makes this game stand out is the focus on a young Bond. He is talented but unrefined, confident but untested. It is less about the unshakable professional and more about how he becomes the character we recognize. That angle makes First Light feel fresh compared to the many other Bond interpretations we have seen over the years.

I’ve been playing Call of Duty long enough to remember when the biggest preorder bonus you could expect was a poster from GameStop. Now the landscape has changed entirely.

With Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 dropping Nov. 14, 2025, across PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, and launching day one on Game Pass, figuring out which edition to grab is its own kind of tactical mission. Here’s a rundown on the Standard and Vault editions, preorder bonuses, gameplay details, and why this Black Ops feels different from the rest.

Standard Edition and Cross-Gen Bundle preorders

The Standard Edition is your entry point into Black Ops 7, but it still comes with a lot. On consoles it is sold as a Cross-Gen Bundle, which means one purchase works across PS4 and PS5 or Xbox One and Series X|S. On PC, it is available digitally through Battle.net, Steam, or Xbox PC. When you preorder the Standard Edition you get the full game at launch on Nov. 14, early access to the Open Beta from Oct. 2-5 if you preorder or have Game Pass, and access to the public beta beginning Oct. 5.

Physical editions can be found below, with Walmart currently offering the cheapest rate at $69. That's $0.99 cheaper, for those keeping score:

• Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 for PlayStation 4/5 Cross-Gen Bundle — $69.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target)

• Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 for PlayStation 5 — $69.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target)

• Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 for Xbox Cross-Gen Bundle — $69.99 (Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target)

Digital preorders also include the Reznov Challenge Pack, which immediately unlocks the Reznov SOG Operator Skin in Black Ops 6 and Warzone, and lets you work toward unlocking the Reznov Stalingrad and Reznov Memory skins. The Standard Edition is priced at $69.99 whether you choose digital or physical. Physical copies have some quirks worth noting. The Xbox disc works for both Series X and One. The PS5 disc is PS5 only. The PS4 disc includes a PS5 digital code, though the disc must still be inserted to play the PS5 version.

Vault Edition preorders

The Vault Edition is the fully loaded digital option. It contains everything in the Standard Edition plus a large collection of extras that will matter if you play Call of Duty throughout the year. This includes the Operator Collection with four exclusive skins, the Mastercraft Weapon Collection with animated blueprints across weapon classes, and one season of the BlackCell Battle Pass, which delivers COD Points, tier skips, and exclusive content.

• Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Vault Edition for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows — $99.99

On top of that you get the Ultra GobbleGum Pack for Zombies, as well as a Permanent Unlock Token to bypass progression on one item of your choice from day one. The Vault Edition costs $99.99 and is digital only. If you already preordered Standard digitally, you can upgrade for $30 through your platform store or in-game. Game Pass subscribers also have the option to buy the Vault upgrade while keeping the base game via their subscription.

Preorder bonuses and Game Pass

Every preorder, whether digital, physical, or through Game Pass, grants early beta access starting Oct. 2 and full open beta access from Oct. 5-8. Digital preorders and Game Pass users also receive the Reznov Challenge Pack, which is playable in Black Ops 6 and Warzone immediately, with all skins available in Black Ops 7 at launch.

SEE ALSO: 'Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Mirror Edition' comes to PS5 and Xbox Series X: Release date and price info

If you're looking to play Black Ops 7 day one on Game Pass, you'll need an Ultimate Membership. There's plenty of options available, including a Amazon Firestick and controller combo that includes Game Pass Ultimate. Here's some options to get you ready for Black Ops 7:

• Xbox Digital Gift Card — $5-$100 (Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target)

• Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (1 Month) — $19.99 (Fanatical, Walmart, Target)

• Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (3 Month) — $59.99 (Fanatical, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target)

• Xbox Wireless Controller (Electric Volt) + Game Pass Ultimate 1 Month Bundle — $79.98 $89.98

• Xbox Wireless Controller (Carbon Black) + Fire TV Stick 4K + Game Pass Ultimate 1 Month Bundle — $103.98 $134.97

• Xbox Wireless Controller (Deep Pink) + Fire TV Stick 4K + Game Pass Ultimate 1 Month Bundle — $103.98 $134.97

• Xbox Wireless Controller (Carbon Black + USB-C Cable) + Fire TV Stick 4K + Game Pass Ultimate 1 Month Bundle — $109.97 $134.97

• Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller (White) + Fire TV Stick 4K + Game Pass Ultimate 1 Month Bundle — $179.97 $219.97

• Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller (Blue) + Fire TV Stick 4K + Game Pass Ultimate 1 Month Bundle — $179.97 $209.97

• Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller (White) + Fire TV Stick 4K Max + Game Pass Ultimate 1 Month Bundle — $189.97 $229.97

• Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller (Blue) + Fire TV Stick 4K Max + Game Pass Ultimate 1 Month Bundle — $189.97 $229.97

• Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller (Black) + Fire TV Stick 4K + Game Pass Ultimate 1 Month Bundle — $203.98 $269.97

• Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller (Black) + Fire TV Stick 4K Max + Game Pass Ultimate 1 Month Bundle — $213.98 $279.97

Gameplay, setting, and what’s new in Black Ops 7

This year’s entry is aiming to push the series forward while still staying true to its roots. Set in 2035, Black Ops 7 continues the threads of Black Ops 2 and Black Ops 6. Raul Menendez has resurfaced with a chilling message, while David Mason leads a JSOC team into the Mediterranean city of Avalon. The Guild, a global tech giant, emerges as the new antagonist force, wielding psychological warfare instead of just brute military power. The story leans heavily into paranoia, deception, and the resurfacing of personal ghosts, all staples of the Black Ops formula.

For the first time since Black Ops 3, the campaign is fully co-op for up to four players. You can still play solo if you prefer, but the shared design is a significant shift. Treyarch has not confirmed full splitscreen support for campaign, but multiplayer and Zombies do support splitscreen on consoles, which will please couch co-op players. A new Endgame mode also enters the picture. It blends open-world gameplay with extraction shooter elements, turning Avalon into a sandbox of escalating challenges and objectives that are designed to be endlessly replayable.

SEE ALSO: 'NBA 2K26' early access has tipped off: Release date, editions, and VC guide

On the multiplayer side, Black Ops 7 launches with 18 maps and a completely reworked movement system featuring wall-jumping, grappling, wingsuits, and omni-directional mobility. A new Skirmish Mode introduces 20-player large-scale battles with vehicles and aerial combat tools. Equipment overclocking adds another twist, allowing gadgets and streaks to evolve as you use them. Zombies remains a pillar, bringing back classic round-based survival on maps inspired by Black Ops 2’s TranZit, along with new Wonder Vehicles for traversing larger environments. Dead Ops Arcade 4 returns for pure chaos sessions.

Progression has been overhauled. It is now unified across campaign, multiplayer, Zombies, and Warzone, meaning XP, weapon levels, and challenges carry over no matter which mode you play. Only Double XP tokens and Gobblegums carry forward from Black Ops 6. Everything else resets, a choice Treyarch says was made in response to player feedback.

The Electric Vehicle (EV) market is packed with crossovers and SUVs right now—and that’s no accident. Buyers love the mix of practicality, space, and versatility these body styles bring, and the sales charts back it up.

"Fair is foul, and foul is fair." Can a quote from Shakespeare’s Macbeth become a hacker's motto? This question haunted the Cannes Film Festival in May, and now, the Venice International Film Festival, two major launchpads for the first-ever video game produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Lili is a neo-noir rendition of Macbeth set in modern-day Iran, where the main character is Lady Macbeth (referred to as Lili). For this ground-breaking project, the RSC teamed up with Brooklyn-based indie game developer iNK Stories (1979 Revolution: Black Friday), known for its immersive storytelling. Lili debuted in May as part of Cannes’ second-ever Immersive Competition for VR installations and video games, demoed at the RSC's Festival of Ideas in July, and is currently in competition in Venice's Immersive program.

SEE ALSO: How 'Grand Theft Hamlet' evolved from lockdown escape to Shakespearean success

Festival-goers have been able to experience a short preview of Lili — and we were lucky enough to catch the 30-minute 'prologue' at Cannes. But what's involved in such a game?

Lili plays with ethics and surveillance by making you a voyeur Zar Amir as Lady Macbeth in "Lili." Credit: Ellie Smith

In Lili, one must enter a hacker’s den with a USB stick in hand, don headphones, and follow the poetic instructions of the Hecate collective — Macbeth’s three witches, reimagined here as hackers. Lili stars Holy Spider actor Zar Amir as Lady Macbeth, and in this interpretation, she's an Iranian woman battling authoritarian gendered oppression.

Lili begins as an initiation, where the player is asked to take a vow and accept the hacker persona, giving you agency within a moral grey zone. One assumes control of the game's surveillance technology to the fullest, as you have access to Lili’s personal documents like her marriage certificate, photos, and passport, and can tune into one of the three different CCTV cameras placed in her house as well as her phone and computer screens. The game’s live-action cinematics were developed with RSC production designers, cinematographers, and costume designers, creating a fully-fledged domestic space for Lili on a set. Within that setting, the player can choose which surveillance angle suits each task, while also effectively spying on the main character.

'Lili' begins as an initiation, where the player is asked to take a vow and accept the hacker persona, giving you agency within a moral grey zone.

Speaking to Mashable, iNK Stories co-founder Navid Khonsari shares that the desktop layout and cameras create a framing that is both intimate and cold, to invite engagement. "Some angles allow you to spot that she's hiding a makeup kit in the kitchen, under a tile. Others, like the hacked phone screen, allow you to follow her gaze," he says. "There's an element of using the cinematography to create levels of intimacy, but also to push curiosity, which in itself is conflicting to the audience."

That ambiguity in how the player relates to their own actions sits at the core of Lili’s game dramaturgy. While you can choose where to look, you are still complicit in surveillance. Vassiliki Khonsari, iNK Stories co-founder and co-director of Lili, refers back to Shakespeare's original play to relate it to surveillance authoritarianism and the contemporary zeitgeist. "In it, Macbeth says, "I have eyes in every castle," which prompts us to look at technological surveillance as a tool for oppression, and to ask: How are we, the voyeur, watching her? How are we also complicit in this surveillance?"

Lili has the player making hard choices "Lili" shown at the RSC's Festival of Ideas. Credit: RSC

Sarah Ellis, Royal Shakespeare Company’s director of digital development and executive producer of Lili, has been working with iNK Stories on this project for seven years. Ellis, who initiated the 2016 RSC motion capture production of The Tempest, told Mashable, “What great theatre does is get you to imagine the different choices that characters make, as well as their fallibility. Similarly, Macbeth is a play that makes you think about how you would behave, the challenges you face, and the choices you make."

Lili translates this double entendre through screens and prompts, providing a meeting ground between theatre and gaming — a union also explored in the groundbreaking film Grand Theft Hamlet. "The unintended consequences of what you do become very similar to the unintended consequences of a character in a play. However, in Lili you are faced with the ways the world [of the game] can respond to that. I think that’s what Lili does brilliantly: situating you in the complexity and the fallibility of choices that you might make in the moment, but with those unintended consequences that come later," Ellis adds.

Featured Video For You Say More: Bob the Drag Queen, plus 'Karate Kid: Legends' stars play Choose Your Squad

In relation to the game’s dramaturgy of suspicion, iNK Stories co-founder Navid Khonsari says that the most important thing is every player’s unique process of discovery. In the case of Lili, the player (i.e. the hacker) can both witness and impose limitations on internet access. At one point, you are prompted by the Hecate witches to shut off Lili's access to a YouTube makeup tutorial, just like the Iranian government can do it at any time. You can then control Lili’s VPN connection and, with that, the flow of information.

"In the original text, the witches control the flow of events in a supernatural way, testing one’s free will," says Vassiliki Khonsari. "In our version of Macbeth, the witches control the actual flow of information as internet hackers, which is the ultimate power in the end."

Lili provides a new look at Lady Macbeth Zar Amir as Lady Macbeth in "Lili." Credit: Ellie Smith

Working with Professor Emma Smith of the Royal Shakespeare Company helped ground Lili in the actual text and, according to Navid, to "cultivate centuries of research into something that is not only contemporary, but also viable for players." Players' agency in this case correlates with the agency of Lady Macbeth and Lili, the character played by Cannes Best Actress winner Amir. By giving Lili non-linear backstories, the creators can propose parallel narratives that you feel like they could actually have existed for Lady Macbeth, but in the game, you can actually explore them, alongside the effects of technological domination, misinformation, and deep-state surveillance.

Ellis remarks that, however maligned the character of Lady Macbeth was, she never gets a verse about her death in the play. "You just don't hear from her again," she says, "and then what the game does is it makes you participate in those choices with her."

Defined by her actions as villainous, Lady Macbeth is often framed as the catalyst for Macbeth’s downfall, but what emerged through iNK Stories' pre-production research were the limitations put on her gender. Navid Khonasari says the developers "came to see a real powerful character whose ambitions, if she was a man, would have made her one of the greatest kings that the country had ever had." What compelled them to explore this side of Macbeth was, according to Vassiliki, “this iconic, timeless archetype of a female and this opportunity to look at who she is after 400 years. How do we resuscitate this character that is so relevant today, who is still fiercely fighting against female oppression?" 

Placing this 400-year-old story as one of emancipation within the context of surveillance and oppression is a gateway into understanding the world today, adds Ellis. "In order to disrupt it effectively with the story of Lady Macbeth, it is really important we place culture in multiple meeting points now."

What's next for the future of Lili? "Lili" shown at the RSC's Festival of Ideas. Credit: RSC

The creators behind Lili are hoping to keep the momentum going to raise funds for the full version of the game, which is currently in competition as part of Venice Immersive and is still in development. The final release will be accessible across gaming platforms, though the RSC hasn't specified which.

"Our goal with the larger project is to follow Lili outside of her home," adds Navid, "and we'll be using cell phones and GPS tracking to follow her and her phone." Expanding the world of Lili means expanding the world of Shakespeare, which aligns with the RSC’s mission and the work of Ellis, according to whom it "feels right" to play Shakespeare, in the sense of playing a video game.

"I'm sure if he was still around he would be curious and probably even working in this space,” Ellis says. “He was an innovator and he was someone that looked outward in the world to share those stories on the stage he had at the time. Now, video games like Lili can be the stage of our times."

SAVE $1,000: As of Sept. 4, the TCL 85-Inch QM7K QD-Mini LED 4K TV is on sale for $1,499.99 at Amazon. This is 40% off its list price of $2,499.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 85-Inch Class QM7K Series QD-Mini LED 4K UHD TV $1,499.99 at Amazon
$2,499.99 Save $1,000.00 Get Deal

The arrival of Fall means the start of the new football season, new shows to binge-watch, and new movies dropping on streaming services. If you're planning on staying inside and hoping to pick up a new TV to enjoy everything on, there are still some great deals available post-Labor Day. And if you're looking to go big, this deal on the TCL 85-Inch QM7K QD-Mini LED 4K TV at Amazon is worth a look.

The TCL 85-Inch QM7K QD-Mini LED 4K TV is usually listed for $2,499.99, but right now it's enjoying a $1,000 discount down to $1,499.99. This is only a couple of dollars away from its lowest-ever price of $1,497.99, so now is a great opportunity to score this huge TV at a great price.

SEE ALSO: TCL's version of The Frame is 50% off for Labor Day — get the 65-inch NXTVISION TV for under $1,000

Thanks to 4K resolution and its QD-Mini LED display, alongside its massive 85-inch size, you can feel completely absorbed in what you're watching with a high-quality picture that'll make every detail jump out. Its CrystGlow HVA Panel also blocks any reflections from getting in the way, so no matter how bright it is outside, what you're watching will always come through clear without any glare.

Your ears will get the red carpet treatment as well, thanks to audio by Bang & Olufsen and Dolby Atmos that can further immerse you in whatever is on the screen. And for those with plenty of streaming services, this smart TV can help you keep everything organized in one location.

Considering that it's listed as a limited-time deal, this heavy discount may not last long. Act fast to save $1,000 on the TCL 85-Inch QM7K QD-Mini LED 4K TV at Amazon. And if you're hoping to find a smaller TV, you can still save on Samsung's 55-Inch QLED Q8F 4K TV at Amazon right now.

SAVE $500: As of Sept. 4, the Dreame L50 Ultra robot vacuum and mop is on sale for $1,099.99 at Amazon. This is 31% off its list price of $1,599.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dreame Dreame L50 Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop $1,099.99 at Amazon
$1,599.99 Save $500 Get Deal

Fall is right around the corner, and if you're feeling like it's time to give your home a little post-Summer refresh, a robot vacuum can help you get the job done. Even with Labor Day deals starting to disappear, there are still plenty of offers to explore on different models. One of the best that's crossed our radar is over at Amazon, where you can score the Dreame L50 Ultra robot vacuum and mop for $500 off its list price right now.

This discount has dropped the price of the Dreame L50 Ultra robot vacuum and mop from $1,599.99 to $1,099.99. Both the black and white models are marked down to this price.

SEE ALSO: I've tested 25+ robot vacuums. Here are 6 I'd actually recommend buying in 2025.

The Dreame L50 Ultra robot vacuum and mop gives an efficient clean thanks to 19,500Pa Vormax suction and Dual Flex Arm technology that can reach tricky corners in your home. It even features a HyperStream Detangling DuoBrush, so there's no need to worry about hair getting tangled up in the vacuum while it's cleaning.

Paired with the mop, your floors will get a deep clean. And the Dreame L50 Ultra works to avoid obstacles with the help of AI action and 3D structured light that detects objects in your home that might be in its way.

There's no better time than now to pick up the Dreame L50 Ultra robot vacuum and mop while it's $500 off at Amazon. And if you're looking for a slightly less expensive robot vacuum deal, the Roborock Qrevo Edge is still discounted at Amazon after Labor Day.

SAVE $40: As of Sept. 4, JBL Tune Buds are on sale for $59.95 at Amazon. That's a 40% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Tune Buds $59.95 at Amazon
$99.95 Save $40 Get Deal

Not everyone wants to fork out over a hundred dollars on earbuds, especially when the market is so saturated with options of all price levels. But how do you know when price equates to quality? Every now and then, you'll find a pair that delivers on both counts, and that's the JBL Tune Buds.

The JBL Tune Buds are some of the best earbuds I've ever used, and if budget is your main concern, they should top your list. And as of Sept. 4, they're on sale at Amazon. Right now, you'll get them for $55.95, down from their usual price of $99.95.

SEE ALSO: Long-term review: I've used my Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds for 2 years and still think they’re a category best

Although they're a great budget option, they still deliver incredible sound and advanced features. They boast 10mm drivers and JBL’s Pure Bass Sound, making sure every song, podcast, and phone call sounds super clear. And if the fit isn’t quite right, not to worry, they come with several size options to adjust to your needs. This also bodes well if you plan to use them for high-intensity sports, like running or gym workouts.

Active Noise Cancelling blocks distractions, while Smart Ambient and TalkThru modes let you stay aware or chat easily without taking them off. You’ll get up to 40 hours of battery life (or 32 hours with noise cancelling), plus a quick 10-minute charge gives you two additional hours of playtime. Not to mention, these earbuds are IPX4 water- and sweat-resistant, making them ideal for workouts or rainy days.

Get this limited-time earbuds deal from Amazon.

Netflix made some massive waves in 2022's streaming entertainment pool with the release of its true-crime series Monster, which saw Evan Peters star as Jeffrey Dahmer in a creepy but curious performance of the notorious serial killer’s life from shy adolescent to killer and cannibal. Season two then focused on the Erik and Lyle Menendez, and the highly anticipated season three, which drops on October 3, will focus on the Butcher of Plainfield, Ed Gein. While its focus is intriguing enough, the main draw of Monster: The Ed Gein Story is Charlie Hunnam, of Sons of Anarchy fame, who’s taking on a whole new process in tackling this role.

Jimmy Kimmel has now been back for two days after his long summer vacation, and he's making up for lost time when it comes to Donald Trump.

Yesterday he responded directly to the president talking about how Kimmel will be the next late night host canceled, and on Wednesday night, he turned his attention to Trump once again trying to deflect attention away from his refusal to release the so-called Epstein files.

"I think we're probably having, according to what I read even from two people in this room, we're having the most successful eight months of any president ever — and that's what I want to talk about," Trump said during a press conference. "That's what we should be talking about, not the Epstein hoax."

"We're almost at the 'I never met anyone named Jeffrey Epstein' part of this story," responds Kimmel, before playing another clip of Trump saying people should be talking about how he "ended seven wars" instead. "That's a lot of wars. Any we may have heard of, by the way? Last week it was 10 wars, now it's seven, tomorrow it'll be 15 wars. This guys is ending...he ended Star Wars, I don't know if you heard that? He did."

Fortunately, Kimmel has a solution for the president.

"Listen, I've got an idea of how you can get people to stop talking about releasing the Epstein files," he says. "Release the Epstein files."

Most mid-range earbuds that offer noise cancellation are likely to disappoint. However, the OnePlus Buds 4 prove that you don't need to spend more money to enjoy this highly sought-after feature. These earbuds also impressed me with a bevy of other features and their comfortable, lightweight build.

TL;DR: Live stream Anisimova vs. Osaka 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 has delivered a number of standout performances from the best players in the world, but Anisimova's victory over Swiatek might be the best so far. After losing the Wimbledon final to Swiatek without winning a game, this was redemption for Anisimova. Can she go all the way at the 2025 US Open? A resurgent Naomi Osaka stands in her way.

If you want to watch Anisimova vs. Osaka in the 2025 US Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Anisimova vs. Osaka for free

Anisimova vs. Osaka 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:

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 Australia

4. Visit 9Now

5. Watch the 2025 US Open for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 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 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

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Anisimova vs. Osaka for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.