Technology

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

The Phoenix Suns head to the Wells Fargo Center to face the Philadelphia 76ers in a non-conference matchup. The Suns are 15-18, which puts them in 12th place in the west. The Sixers are 13-19, which puts them in 11th place in the Eastern Conference.

The Suns are coming off four consecutive losses to the Indiana Pacers, Memphis Grizzlies, Golden State Warriors, and the Dallas Mavericks. The Sixers have won three of their last five games, and are coming off a win over the Brooklyn Nets.

When is Phoenix Suns vs. Philadelphia 76ers?

Phoenix Suns vs. Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Jan. 6. This game takes place at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.

This game will air on NBA TV.

How to watch Phoenix Suns 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 Suns 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 Suns vs. 76ers 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 Phoenix Suns 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 Phoenix Suns 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 Phoenix Suns 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 Phoenix Suns vs. Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA with ExpressVPN.

After kicking off the 2025 Golden Globes with a roast-filled monologue, Nikki Glaser marked the halfway point with a giant scoreboard.

"So much has already happened in the first half, and the acceptance speeches have been on fire. Who got shouted out the most? Let's look at the numbers," she says in the clip above, before the screen at the back of the arena changes into a scoreboard.

"Alright, cast and crew are leading the way with 11 mentions," says Glaser. "Moms are holding strong with three shoutouts. God, creator of the universe, zero mentions. And Mario Lopez, host of Access Hollywood, one. Alright. No surprise in this godless town."

See here for the full list of Golden Globes 2025 winners, and see here for Glaser's self-sabotaged Pope-themed musical number.

SAVE $50: As of Jan. 6, Sony's WH1000XM4 headphones are on sale at Best Buy for $299.99. This is $50 off their list price of $349.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones $299.99 at Best Buy
$349.99 Save $50.00 Get Deal

It's a brand new year, and if you're hoping to start it out with some sleek new headphones, look no further than Best Buy. They've currently got some great picks on sale, including the Sony WH1000XM4s, which are our top pick for wireless headphones.

The Sony WH1000XM4 headphones are currently enjoying a nice $50 discount at Best Buy, dropping their price from $349.99 to $299.99. While they're not as low as they were during the holiday period, it's still a nice offer to take advantage of while it's still live. Not to mention, you get some fun bonuses with your purchase: a four-month SiriusXM All Access subscription and three months free of YouTube Premium.

SEE ALSO: CES 2025: LG’s viral battery-powered portable TV gets an AI upgrade

These noise-canceling headphones are worth every penny, too. As mentioned earlier, they top our list of the best wireless headphones, with Miller Kern saying "If you have the budget, Sony's XM line offers the best mix of stellar noise-cancellation, comfort, and all-day battery life. Keep in mind there is a newer model available, the XM5 headphones. However, these offer only small improvements, so we recommend saving $50 on the XM4 generation."

There's no better time than now to treat yourself to some new headphones. Don't miss out on this $50 discount on Sony's WH1000XM4 headphones at Best Buy.

There are even more headphone deals available right now that are worth jumping on. Another one of our favorites is this $150 discount on the silver Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) at Best Buy, and if earbuds are more your style, you can save $40 on Beats Fit Pro at Amazon.

TL;DR: Unblock Pornhub from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

More than a third of U.S. states have now introduced restrictions for online adult content, with Florida, South Carolina, and Tennessee the latest to enforce age verification laws. That means millions of users are now unable to access Pornhub.

That's frustrating for those who simply want to visit their favorite site at an entirely appropriate moment. Fortunately, there is something simple that can be done to bypass these frustrating restrictions.

If you want to unblock sites like Pornhub for free from anywhere in the world, we have the information you need.

How to unblock Pornhub for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure server in another location. This straightforward process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can access sites like Pornhub from anywhere in the world.

Unblock Pornhub by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a 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 a location that supports access to Pornhub

4. Access Pornhub 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 unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial peiods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Pornhub without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you the opportunity to temporarily retain access to Pornhub before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Pornhub?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking porn sites like Pornhub, 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 always secure

• Fast streaming 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 also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Unblock Pornhub for free with ExpressVPN.

Nikki Glaser's Golden Globes 2025 hosting wasn't just about the brutal opening monologue — there was also a (very brief) Pope-themed musical number.

In the clip above Glaser dons a mitre and starts to sing before suddenly turning her back to the audience and touching her ear piece.

"Oh sorry, what? Wait, this sucks?" she whispers. "This whole thing sucks? I'm embarrassing myself in front of Elton John? OK let's skip to the next song, the TV one about The Penguin. Er, 'Insane in the Peng-wayne'? That sucks too? And no-one says 'Penguin' that way?"

See the full list of Golden Globes 2025 winners.

SAVE $150: As of Jan. 6, Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) are on sale for $399.99 at Best Buy. This is $150 off their list price of $549.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) $399.99 at Best Buy
$549.99 Save $150.00 Get Deal

The holidays may be over with, but that doesn't mean the deals have stopped entirely. If you were hoping to get an Apple device as a gift last year, there's still time to make your holiday dreams come true. Apple AirPods Max with a lightning port are currently on sale at Best Buy, so you can take advantage of a sweet deal on these headphones to kickstart your new year.

The AirPods Max (Lightning) have had a $150 discount at Best Buy, dropping their price from $549.99 to $399.99. They're well worth picking up at this price, and even come with a couple of bonus offers with your purchase: three months of Apple Fitness+ for free and up to three months of Apple Music for free.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the CES 2025 Nvidia keynote livestream today

We absolutely adore the AirPods Max headphones. In our review, Brenda Stolyar said, "the AirPods Max check off almost all the boxes for what makes an excellent pair of headphones: great sound quality, ideal battery life, easy controls, and a stylish design (sans Smart Case)." And since no new AirPods Max are expected anytime soon, there's no better time to grab them if you've had your eye on them.

Deals like this don't stick around for long. Scoop up the silver Apple AirPods Max (Lightning) for $399.99 at Best Buy.

Curious what else to buy and expect from Apple as we head into the new year? Have a look at our roundups of the best MacBooks for 2025 to see some options worth buying this year along with our breakdown of every foldable iPhone and iPad rumor we've heard so far to see what could be up the company's sleeve in 2025.

Listen, when you go to CES, sometimes you're going to find some products that make you marvel at the complicated, intricate technological innovations that are being showcased before you.

And, then, sometimes you're going to just find some cute little furry robot that makes you say, "Damn, people are going to love this."

Yukai Engineering's Mirumi falls comfortably in that last category.

SEE ALSO: CES Unveiled 2025: OpenDroids' R2D3 domestic robot is 'Roomba on crack'

Mashable came across the Mirumi at CES Unveiled, the show's annual first big event where usually some startups vie for attention by offering up products that make attendees stop in their tracks and say "what the heck am I looking at."

The Mirumi has basically one major function as its selling point to consumers: To do just that. It's a cute, furry little robot that spontaneously turns its head towards passerbyes. As Yukai Engineering describes it, the Mirumi is a "mascot robot…designed to recreate people’s joyful experiences of noticing a human baby as he/she tries to interact with them."

Mashable's Matt Binder with a Mirumi Credit: Mashable

Basically, Mirumi's arms act as a clasp that you can attach to your arm, bag, or anything else and the Mirumi automatically detects movement and turns its head in that direction. Users can also gently tap the back of the Mirumi to manually get some of that movement.

If you get the appeal from this off the bat, you just get it. If you don't, let me provide you with this story. 

SEE ALSO: CES Unveiled 2025: This walking stool waved at me

I took my kids, 9 and 5, to Disney World this past summer. At Galaxy's Edge, the Star Wars-themed part of Disney's Hollywood Studios, the Mandalorian character walks around greeting guests. At his side is a completely animatronic Grogu, better known as Baby Yoda, hanging out of the Mandalorian's bag. It interacts with guests by turning its head, opening its mouth, and making sounds. Kids, my own included, were absolutely enamored with this animatronic Baby Yoda and treated it like it was a live human character.

The Mirumi is going to sell like hot cakes if Yukai Engineering pulls it off correctly. (And can you imagine if they get the licensing for beloved characters, like, say Baby Yoda in the future?!) The company is planning on launching a crowdfunding campaign this year and currently intends to sell the Mirumi at $70, which is a whole lot cheaper than a one-day ticket to Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Wonder thinks you should know your backyard like the back of your hand.

The new company from the creators of the popular Bird Buddy smart bird feeder introduced an AI-powered nature camera called the Petal at CES' Unveiled media event Sunday night. Inspired by community feedback, the device is designed to get users on a "first-name basis" with their local nature, said Franci Zidar, CEO of Wonder and co-founder of Bird Buddy.

The Petal is a colorful cup-shaped camera that can be installed a couple different ways: You can wrap its bendable stem around an object (like a branch or a fencepost), or attach it to the side of a planter using its universal clip. It's designed to blend in well with its natural surroundings either way, a notion that's hammered home by its optional solar panel attachment, which is shaped like leaf. As a complete set, it looks a lot like a minimalist, bionic flower.

Credit: Haley Henschel / Mashable

The Petal captures photos and livestreams of its surroundings (and identifies its inhabitants), sending the footage to the user's smartphone so they can get a more intimate look at the goings-on in their yard or garden. Zidar told Mashable that its built-in "Nature Intelligence" AI gets involved to identify any outliers — say, a dried-up leaf, an abnormal number of aphids, or the chirps of freshly hatched bluebird chicks — balancing actionable care alerts with personalized "check out this cool thing!" insights.

SEE ALSO: CES Unveiled 2025: This walking stool waved at me

Zidar said a forthcoming chat feature will give Petal users the ability to "converse" with nature. For instance, asking a flower if it's lonely will prompt recommendations for other plants that thrive in similar conditions.

Credit: Haley Henschel / Mashable

For those with less-than-lively backyards, Wonder has also launched a "Wonder Block" modular system of wildlife habitats — think seed trays, bug hotels, and butterfly feeders. You know the saying: If you build it, they (the birds and the bees) will come.

Zidar said the Petal will launch on Kickstarter sometime this spring and retail for less than $100, with shipping targeted for early 2026. The release of Wonder Blocks is still to be determined.

TL;DR: Mashable readers can save 57% on the Twin Sound Ultra wireless earbuds, which include a touchscreen charging case for just $29.99 (reg. $69.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: VistaShops Twin Sound Ultra Earbuds with Visual Touchscreen Case $29.99 at the Mashable Shop
$69.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal

It’s cold and dark, and winter is officially here. You can easily warm up your mood by upgrading your audio game with the Twin Sound Ultra Earphones with a visual touchscreen case. For just $29.99 (reg. $69.99), these sleek earphones deliver crystal-clear sound and all-day battery life to keep you going through the season.

With up to 18 hours of total battery life, these earphones are designed to power your playlists, podcasts, and calls from morning commutes to evening workouts. The compact charging case doubles as a power bank, ensuring your earphones are always ready when you are.

The Twin Sound Ultra wireless earbuds are made to deliver rich, dynamic bass and sharp clarity, giving your favorite tracks the depth they deserve. Plus, the LED touchscreen case not only looks stylish but also gives you full control over your music and calls with just a tap.

Seamlessly connect these earbuds to your devices via Bluetooth and enjoy easy pairing with iPhone and Android phones alike. Activate voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant for hands-free control so you can skip tracks, make calls, or check the weather without even touching your phone.

Designed for comfort, these earbuds are made to fit snugly for long listening sessions without discomfort. And at just 2.5 inches wide, the case fits easily into your pocket, making it perfect for on-the-go lifestyles.

Don’t miss this opportunity to upgrade your sound while saving big.

Get your Twin Sound Ultra Earphones today for just $29.99 (reg. $69.99), and let your winter playlist shine.

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TL;DR: The Complete 2024 Guitar Lessons Bundle offers 14 comprehensive courses for all levels — only $39.99 to kickstart your guitar journey.

If learning the guitar has been on your bucket list, this is your year to finally make it happen. With The Complete 2024 Beginner to Expert Guitar Lessons Bundle, you can master the art of guitar playing from the comfort of your home and as slowly or quickly as you'd like for just $39.99.

This bundle is packed with 14 thoughtfully curated courses that cater to everyone, whether you're picking up a guitar for the first time or looking to refine your technique. Starting with the Beginner Guitar Lessons Crash Course, you’ll learn the essential skills to get you strumming confidently.

This course starts from scratch, teaching you how to read tab, play open and barre chords, and strum with precision. By the end, you’ll be soloing over your favorite tracks and chord progressions, ready to take your playing to the next level.

If songwriting is your dream, the Songwriting for the Curious Guitarist course will ignite your creativity. Dive into arranging songs, selecting chord progressions, and crafting melodies that perfectly complement your unique style. From strumming patterns to mastering time changes and key transitions, this course equips you with the tools to create music that’s truly your own.

The bundle also features courses tailored to specific genres and techniques, such as jazz, blues, fingerstyles, and even holiday tunes. Each lesson builds upon the last, creating a structured journey with progress designed to be consistent and rewarding. Accompanying PDF attachments provide additional resources, making it easy to reference techniques and tips as you advance.

At just $39.99, this Complete 2024 Beginner to Expert Guitar Lessons Bundle offers an affordable, low-commitment way to explore your passion for guitar playing.

The Complete 2024 Beginner to Expert Guitar Lessons Bundle - $39.99

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Opens in a new window Credit: Shutterstock The Complete 2025 Beginner to Expert Guitar Lessons Bundle $39.99
$2,800.00 Save $2,760.01 Get Deal

TL;DR: Save 37% on the Kinhank streaming and gaming console and get it shipped free.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kinhank Kinhank Super Console X2 Pro Retro Gaming Emulator & Streaming Console $99.99
$159.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal

Remember the good ol’ days when all you needed was a comfy spot on the couch, a bowl of popcorn, and your favorite video game to have a good time? If you’ve been curious how to get the magic of games like Pac-Man and Space Invaders back without having to track down vintage consoles, we found just the thing.

This retro gaming console has thousands of pre-installed games, including tons of greatest hits. And when you aren’t gaming, it doubles as a streaming console. You can order one for $99.99 with free shipping (reg. $159.99).

Vintage games are so back

Whatever game you’ve been missing from your childhood, you’re bound to find it from over 70,000 included titles. You might invite your siblings over to reignite the rivalry or host game nights with friends — you get two wireless controllers included.

If anyone’s complaining there aren’t enough games, believe it or not, you can add more. There’s a library of free 3D games to download, preloaded emulators, and a microSD card slot for adding your own.

The console won’t sit untouched when you’re not gaming. It has an Android OS for adding apps like Netflix and Disney+, so you can stream movies and shows. Easily navigate the console with the separate TV remote control and enjoy 4K streaming quality. 

Play classic video games and stream movies with this super console deal: $99.99 with free shipping (reg. $159.99). 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Meet One combines AI recording, transcription, and summarization in 120+ languages for just $99.99 (reg. $149).

Did you know you can capture every word of an important meeting, phone call, or class without lifting a pen? The FoCais Rec Meet One has AI-powered transcription, translation, and summarization in over 120 languages. This sleek device takes the hassle out of note-taking and helps you focus on what matters most. It’s ideal for professionals, students, and multitaskers who demand precision and convenience.

The voice-activated recording starts automatically when sound is detected, saving battery life and storage. It delivers crystal-clear audio, thanks to intelligent noise reduction, even in less-than-ideal environments. The real magic happens with its advanced AI tools, like conversation summarization and AI transcription, giving you clean, timestamped records of your audio files in minutes.

Need to switch between languages? No problem. The device’s mobile app supports over 120 languages, making it easy to transcribe and translate audio from classes, meetings, or calls. Plus, the one-touch operation and lightweight, portable design make it ideal for on-the-go users. Whether you’re navigating a busy office or a bustling lecture hall, this recorder helps you never miss a beat.

Gone are the days of scrambling to jot down notes or re-listening to hours of audio. With GPT-4-powered AI summarization, this device transforms long recordings into concise, actionable insights. Whether you’re tackling a big project at work, studying for exams, or collaborating with global teams, the recorder makes the organization effortless. And with 20 hours of battery life, it’s always ready for your most demanding days.

Its compact size and magnetic attachment also make it a breeze to carry, attach, or store discreetly. Meanwhile, the encrypted storage ensures your data stays safe and accessible only to you.

For just $99.99, the FoCais is a lifetime solution to the modern world’s audio recording challenges.

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Opens in a new window Credit: FoCais Focais: Meet One - Voice-Activated AI-Powered Recorder $99.99
$149.00 Save $49.01 Get Deal

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

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

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for January 6 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for January 6, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A little bit of a plant.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no reoccurring letters.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter S.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

SPRIG.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for January 6

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

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

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to the latest Wordle.

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

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

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for January 6 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 6 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: In neutral

These words are used to describe something is not quite white.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

Words are shades of a neutral color.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Winter Weather.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for January 6

• Cream

• Eggshell

• Vanilla

• Ivory

• Linen

• Champagne

• Offwhites

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to the latest Strands.

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

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

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

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

Tweet may have been deleted

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

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

Tweet may have been deleted

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

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for January 6 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: A lungful

• Green: Roundup

• Blue: A snap

• Purple: Same last name

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Breathe hard

• Green: Catchall

• Blue: Metaphors for easy things

• Purple: Almost behind

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #575 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Breathe hard: GASP, HEAVE, PANT, PUFF

• Catchall: BLANKET, BROAD, GENERAL, UMBRELLA

• Metaphors for easy things: ABC, BREEZE, PICNIC, PIE

• Synonyms for rear end minus last letter: ARS. BOOT, BUT, RUM

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for January 6

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

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

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to the latest Connections.

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 Monday, January 6, 2025:

Across___ notification (alert on a phone screen)

• The answer is Push.

Stocking stuffer?

• The answer is Santa.

Hunter with a famous "belt"

• The answer is Orion.

Gas used to infuse some beer and coffee, for short

• The answer is Nitro.

18-wheeler

• The answer is Semi.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for January 6 DownHome of the Notre-Dame cathedral

• The answer is Paris.

Join forces

• The answer is Unite.

Tempest

• The answer is Storm.

World capital whose name means "between two rivers" in Vietnamese

• The answer is Hanoi.

Child with a Roman numeral after his name, maybe

• The answer is Son.

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.

VPNs are useful security tools that can protect your identity and data, bypass online restrictions to access extra content, and much more. If this is all very new to you, you've probably got a lot of questions. Don't worry, because we can help.

We've done all the hard work for you and thoroughly researched these services to provide the information that matters to you. Here's everything you need to know about VPNs.

What is a VPN?

VPNs (or Virtual Private Networks) provide important protection for your data and identity when you're online. They offer this online privacy and anonymity by creating a private network that hides your real IP address (digital location). This means that all of your activity is untraceable and secure.

Basically, you can think about VPNs as encrypted tunnels through which all of your online traffic passes through. Nobody can see into the tunnel, and everything inside the tunnel is protected against online threats like viruses, hackers, and malware.

Do you need a VPN?

Any sort of activity on an unsecured WiFi network leaves your private information and browsing habits exposed to the world, unless you're using a VPN. There's no need to panic, because whether you're sending important emails, doing some online shopping, or paying essential bills, VPNs make sure that everything remains private and anonymous.

SEE ALSO: The best VPNs for your iPhone

First and foremost, VPNs are designed to provide online security, but there is another reason that millions of people use these services: streaming more content from around the world. By hiding your real IP address and connecting you to a server in another location, you can trick your favourite streaming services into thinking that you are based in a different country. This means that you can watch all of the shows and films from global libraries, like all the extra content on U.S. Netflix. This is the quickest and easiest way of boosting your content options, without the need to rely on a dodgy stream.

What should you consider before subscribing to a VPN?

There are plenty of things that you should consider when it comes to VPNs, but we don't have all day. Instead of listing off every feature offered by the best VPNs, we have highlighted a selection of the most important things to think about.

Before you make any sort of decision, you should look out for connection speed, server network, number of logins, and more important features:

• Bandwidth — There are some VPNs out there that place monthly caps on network bandwidth, meaning you can only download a certain amount of data. You should avoid these services, unless you're on a free trial. If you're paying for a VPN, you should be able to download and upload as much as you want.

• Connection speed — Using a VPN is going to produce a drop in your connection speed, but you shouldn't accept a significant drop that is going to result in buffering. Be sure to select a VPN that doesn't negatively impact your connection speed to the point that you can't watch a film or download a file without frustration.

• Encryption — There are different levels of encryption, and whilst it's important to take note of the grade provided by your VPN, the best options will all offer powerful protection for your data. You are likely to come across terms like "military-grade" and "enterprise-grade," which just means that you can rely on it to do its job.

• Number of connections — Some VPNs let you connect an unlimited number of devices with the same account. Others limit you to just a single device. You should look out for a service that offers multiple simultaneous connections, so you can stay protected on all your devices at the same time.

• Server network — The very best VPNs provide access to literally thousands of geographically diverse servers. It's useful if a VPN has a lot of servers in key locations, because you should always be able to find a stable and speedy connection for streaming, shopping, or browsing anonymously. It's not a straightforward case of more is better, but it's always good to have options.

• Privacy policy — It's worth paying special attention to the data-handling, storage, and usage practices of the VPN you are planning on using. These practices should be laid out in a privacy policy, and if they aren't clear, it's best to avoid. Most VPNs require access to your IP address, online transactions, and browsing history, plus your personal details when you sign up. If privacy is the objective, it's absolutely essential that your VPN is not going to store these details. If it does, the whole thing is kind of pointless.

There are other things to consider, like price and subscription plans, but these features are a good place to start.

Should you use free VPNs?

There are plenty of free versions of popular VPNs, plus free trials of VPNs with full access to everything you get with a premium plan. So why would you ever pay for a VPN?

As with most things in life, you get what you pay for with VPNs. There tends to always be a catch with free versions, and it's normally in the form of limited data usage. If you're just an occasional user, these plans will work fine. But if you're going to be streaming or downloading, this isn't going to work. Free trials are a little bit different: they come with everything you get in a paid plan, but obviously they don't tend to last very long. Trials are great for testing out a service before committing, but this isn't a long-term solution.

What we're saying is that the best option for streaming securely and accessing the online world without restrictions is with a paid subscription to a VPN. To gain access to advanced security features without limitations on usage, you need to pay up. The best VPNs are generally the most expensive, but there are plenty of cheap plans out there, especially if you're willing to commit to a lengthy contract.

What is the best VPN?

There are a lot of VPN providers out there all offering different sets of features, with different pricing structures. We recommend taking some time to carefully access your options, and decide on what you really need from a VPN. Once you have established your priorities, you can check out this definitive list of the best VPNs this month.

We have tracked down everything on offer and lined up a selection of the very best VPNs for streaming, shopping, and everything else. We have tried to find something for everyone and every budget, and you can find popular services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost VPN in this list. All you need to do is weigh up these options against your own set of priorities, and then pick a favourite from the bunch.

These are the best VPNs in 2025.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

In the age of on-demand everything, hookup apps are the go-to for casual dating. After all, if we can stream movies (thank you, Netflix) and order a takeaway with just a few taps, why can't we find a potential partner the same way?

Sometimes all you want is a little fun, and there's an app for that.

How do you find a hookup?

It's still possible to find a connection in the real world. Meeting in bars, clubs, parks, and other real-life locations still happens on a regular basis. You're simply shortening your odds by subscribing to a dating site.

Dating sites and sex apps allow you to get your information out there to a massive network of like-minded individuals. Plus, you can save a lot of time, energy, and cash by testing out a potential relationship on an app before meeting up. We know that some dating apps can be expensive, but just think about all those wasted coffees you could avoid by chatting through an app first.

SEE ALSO: The best sexting apps for sending naughty messages

Using dating apps and sites is also a whole lot less intimidating than meeting someone face to face. If you find the idea of meeting people slightly terrifying, these apps can help you dip your toe into the world of dating from the comfort of your own home.

Should you use free dating apps?

The good news is that there are a lot of free dating sites and apps out there, and the likes of Tinder and Hinge are popular options with massive networks of users. Plus, most of the biggest and best dating sites have free versions with limitations on certain features. So yes, you can easily enter the online dating game without spending anything. However, as with most things in life, you get what you pay for with dating apps. And sometimes free apps just don't cut it.

For the best experience with the greatest possibility of finding exactly what you're looking for, you are going to have to cough up some cash. We're sorry to break it to you, but the best dating sites don't come cheap. It all comes down to access to advanced and premium features. You can still find a hookup with a free app, but if you're looking for compatibility tests, chat rooms, videos, and a greater level of control, we recommend upgrading.

What makes an app good for hooking up?

There's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hookup apps. What works for your friends might not work for you. Your best bet is to download a handful of options and see which one clicks with your vibe.

Skip the apps that are all about romance and happily ever afters (we're looking at you, eharmony). Instead, keep an eye out for apps that get straight to the point. The best hookup apps make chatting quick and easy (messaging, video calls, all that good stuff), and even the free ones should have features like profile verification to help keep you safe.

If you really want to pay for a premium membership, that's up to you. But we recommend starting with the free versions of cult faves like Tinder, Grindr, and Hinge. These popular dating apps give you just enough functionality to connect with potential partners for casual encounters — all without spending anything.

What is the best sex and dating app for hooking up?

The good news is that there are absolutely loads of dating sites and sex apps out there for every type of dater and dating situation. The problem with this wealth of options is that deciding on the right site for you can be difficult. This is where we can help.

Whether you're looking to have a one-night stand, exchange nudes with strangers, or have some phone sex before you doze off, we've rounded up the most reliable hookup apps for every type of single. You can download them via Google Play or the App Store and start swiping in minutes.

These are the best hookup sites and apps in 2025.

Nikki Glaser says up top in her Golden Globes 2025 opening monologue that she's not there to roast anyone, but the following 10 minutes says different.

"Wicked, Queer, Nightbitch: these are not just words Ben Affleck yells after he orgasms, these are some of the incredible movies nominated tonight," says Glaser, introducing the nominees. "The Bear, The Penguin, Baby Reindeer: These are not just things found in RFK's freezer, these are TV shows nominated tonight."

Nobody is safe in her opening monologue, with Glaser taking aim at everyone from Martin Short ("And Martin Short is here, because we have cameras!") to Timothée Chalamet ("You have the most gorgeous eyelashes on your upper lip!"). After her famous Tom Brady roast, did we expect anything else?

For a full list of Golden Globes 2025 winners, we've also got you covered.

French tech startup Lili for Life made quite the impression at CES 2025's Unveiled showcase with its latest innovation, aimed at supporting individuals with dyslexia.

Known for its flagship product, the Lili lamp, the Rouen-based startup has now introduced the Lili screen, a 27-inch monitor specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by dyslexic users.

SEE ALSO: CES Unveiled 2025: This walking stool waved at me

According to the team we spoke to at CES, the Lili screen features an intelligent setup that automatically activates a dyslexia-friendly mode when connected to a compatible PC.

The Lili screen, developed by French physicists Albert Le Floch and Guy Ropars, is based on their research showing that dyslexic individuals have two dominant eyes. The condition causes overlapping "mirror" images in the brain during reading, according to the company.

The Lili screen emits nearly imperceptible light flashes that correct this overlap by creating a shift in visual perception. This innovation makes reading smoother, faster, and less tiring, enhancing text comprehension and making the experience more enjoyable for the reader, according to the company.

According to the National Institutes of Health, dyslexia impacts 5-10% of the global population, often bringing challenges like low self-confidence and cognitive strain for many schoolchildren and working adults. While not a cure, Lili for Life hopes its Lili screen can provide a practical solution that empowers those affected, according to the company.

As of now, the Lili screen is available for purchase across Europe and in the UK, and the company hopes to bring the screen to the United States sometime in the future.