Technology

The Fire TV Stick lineup just dropped back to Prime Day pricing — starting at only $24.99

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:18
The best deals on Amazon Fire TV Sticks Best Fire TV Stick HD Deal Fire TV Stick HD $24.99 (save $10) Get Deal Best Fire TV Stick 4K Deal Fire TV Stick 4K $29.99 (save $20) Get Deal Best Fire TV Stick Max Deal Fire TV Stick Max $39.99 (save $20) Get Deal

If you skipped Prime Day but still have streaming upgrades on your mind, this is your second chance. Amazon has quietly slashed prices across its entire Fire TV Stick lineup, and yes — the discounts are just as deep as they were during the summer’s biggest shopping event. 

Whether you’re turning an old TV into a streaming powerhouse to watch Andor Season 2 or adding next-gen features to your living room setup, these deals are hard to ignore.

The Fire TV Stick 4K Max, normally priced at $59.99, is now just $39.99 — a full $20 off. Amazon boasts that this is its most advanced streaming stick to date, offering blazing-fast app performance, WiFi 6E support, and a generous 16GB of storage — twice as much as any other Fire TV Stick. 

SEE ALSO: The best 4K TVs in 2025

It's also the only model with Fire TV Ambient Experience, which transforms your screen into a digital art display when idle. Add AI-powered search and support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos, and it’s a premium package at a very un-premium price.

For a more streamlined (and slightly cheaper) upgrade, the Fire TV Stick 4K is down to just $29.99 from its usual $49.99. It delivers the same crisp 4K Ultra HD picture when rewatching The Boys ahead of its upcoming final season, smart Alexa voice search, Dolby Vision support, and WiFi 6 for smooth playback — minus the bells and whistles of the Max.

And if you’re just looking to get in the door with simple HD streaming for when King of the Hill comes back this August, the entry-level Fire TV Stick HD is now $24.99, down from $34.99. It's a fantastic choice for secondary TVs or first-time streamers, offering easy access to 1.5 million titles across Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more — including over 300,000 free shows and movies via Tubi, Pluto TV, and Fire TV Channels.

With no coupon required and prices this low, you probably won’t see another drop like this until Black Friday, so don’t wait if you need a new streaming source right away.

To go with your new Fire Stick, check out our other best TV list showing why LG, TCL, Hisense, and Samsung are the top brands.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for July 22, 2025

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:15

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

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

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

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for July 22, 2025 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

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

  • Yellow: Same conference

  • Green: Italian football

  • Blue: All-time hurlers

  • Purple: Related to the legendary Heat player

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

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

  • Yellow: SEC teams, minus the S

  • Green: Serie A teams

  • Blue: Nicknames for Hall of Fame pitchers

  • Purple: Associated with Dwayne Wade

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

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

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #302 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today
  • SEC teams, minus the S - BULLDOG, GAMECOCK, RAZORBACK, VOLUNTEER

  • Serie A teams - ATLANTA, INTER, MILAN, NAPOLI

  • Nicknames for Hall of Fame pitchers - ECK, MAD DOG, MOOSE, THE BIG TRAIN

  • Associated with Dwayne Wade - 3, BANANA BOAT, MARQUETTE, MIAMI

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

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

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

DMV text scams are on the rise again in these states

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:10

Over the past few months, we’ve covered the rise of phishing scams across the US. Now, a popular new variant on E-ZPass toll scams is making the rounds again: scammy SMS messages targeting drivers under the guise of official DMV notices. These DMV text scams seem to be all over the country.

Initially, Departments of Motor Vehicles in large states like California, Florida, and New York issued public warnings about fraudulent texts claiming to represent their offices. The text messages allege that drivers owe unpaid tolls or have outstanding tickets, and if they don’t pay up, they’re threatened with credit damage, loss of their driver's license, or even criminal prosecution. In recent weeks, Google Trends data suggests that these scam texts have spiked in other states, including Utah, Colorado, and Illinois.

A more troubling detail is the use (or misuse) of state-specific legal codes to increase credibility. Most of the examples seen online show the same code: "15C-16.003," which is a real statute in Florida relating to car insurance, but which also appears in messages sent to New Yorkers, where no such code exists.

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State agencies do not use text messages to deliver legal notices or collect fines, but the scam is still rapidly gaining traction.

These DMV scams seem quite similar to the E-ZPass scam texts that have also proliferated in 2025. Scammers rely on exploiting confusion and targeting individuals who are less familiar with digital threats, often the elderly or those who aren’t tech-savvy. That's why the messages are sometimes filled with shoddy grammar and easily verifiable mistakes — scammers don't want to waste time on people who know better. The recent DMV ticket scams also use phrases like "DMV Final Notice," which increases urgency and makes people act before they have time to think clearly.

The most effective defense against these scams is simple:

How to avoid DMV scam texts
  • Ignore the messages and do not click the links. Never attempt to pay DMV fines via text message.
  • Delete the messages and report them as junk.
  • If you're concerned, check with your official state DMV website to verify if you have outstanding tickets or fines.
What states are affected by DMV scam texts?

Since we first reported on this scam, we're still seeing it spread across the country. In fact, Mashable recently named it one of the top internet scams of 2025. Below, we've created a running list of states seemingly seeing a rise in DMV scams, using Google Trends data and local news reports.

Pennsylvania DMV scam texts

Pennsylvania has reportedly seen a rise in DMV scam texts over the summer of 2025, so much so that the attorney general issued a warning.

"It is disappointing to see people trying to scam Pennsylvanians by pretending to be affiliated with the Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles,” Attorney General Dave Sunday wrote in a statement last month. “PennDOT does not send text messages about traffic violations or fines. Consumers who receive a text message or email from anyone alleging to be from a government agency should reach out to that agency to confirm the authenticity of any such message."

Sunday offered the usual advice: Do not click any links and report the message as spam.

Colorado DMV scam texts

Colorado's DMV issued a similar warning that it was seeing a rise in these types of scam texts. Like most other official entities, it warned about not clicking links or responding to the texts. If Coloradans are worried they may have a real parking or traffic citation, the DMV wrote that they should, "contact the Colorado DMV directly through its official website at dmv.colorado.gov or by phone at (303) 205-5600."

Iowa DMV scam texts

Iowa, too, has seen a rise in these sorts of scams.

The state's DMV wrote:

"Fraudulent text messages appearing to come from the Iowa DOT or “DMV” are targeting recipients with false claims of unpaid traffic violations. Individuals are also receiving fraudulent Iowa DOT-generated text messages stating that they have an unpaid toll or registration fee. Both types of texts ask recipients to click on a link to provide personal information as well as credit card numbers. Many times, the link will lead to a website that looks like the Iowa DOT’s website."

To be clear, the state's DMV does not send fee collection reminders via text and does not ask for financial information. Local news station KCRG reported that the scams had proliferated throughout numerous counties throughout the state — so it's best to be wary of any such messages.

Washington WSDOT scam texts

There has been a rise in texts falsely claiming to be from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). These scams are much like the others across the nation. Specifically, WSDOT wrote in a press release it has seen scam messages directing people to a fake version of its Good to Go! service.

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WSDOT noted that people could file reports of the scam texts with the FBI or FTC.

Nevada DMV text scams

Like many other states, Nevada has apparently seen a rise in DMV text scams.

Nevada Department of Transportation warned, "New scam texts are making the rounds pretending to be from NDOT or the DMV. The message in the image is not legitimate."

As KLAS reported, these fake texts often warn people that this is their "final notice," creating a faux sense of urgency. If you receive one of these scam messages, do not click any links, delete the message, and report it as junk.

More states affected by DMV text scams

When we originally reported on this story, we identified a spike in Google searches for DMV and/or toll text scams in Florida, New York, Illinois, New Hampshire, and Utah.

And in our previous reporting on E-ZPass scams, we identified that scammers were impersonating state agencies such: Peach Pass in Georgia, The Texas DMV and Department of Transportation, Maryland's DriveEzMD service, and the DC DMV.

Have a story to share about a scam or security breach that impacted you? Tell us about it. Email submissions@mashable.com with the subject line "Safety Net" or use this form. Someone from Mashable will get in touch.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for July 22, 2025

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:08

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 Tuesday, July 22, 2025:

AcrossGet ready for a vacation
  • The answer is Pack.

How you might feel after riding a roller coaster
  • The answer is Dizzy.

"All things being ___ ..."
  • The answer is Equal.

Small donkey of the Southwest
  • The answer is Burro.

Items shot from cannons at basketball games
  • The answer is Tees.

DownSpark, as curiosity
  • The answer is Pique.

Sky-blue hue
  • The answer is Azure.

Government policy leaders
  • The answer is Czars.

___ Ren, villain in the "Star Wars" universe
  • The answer is Kylo.

What an i.o.u. represents
  • The answer is Debt.

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.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Bluetti’s beastly AC200L power station is down to its record-low price on Amazon

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:05

SAVE $700: As of July 22, grab the Bluetti AC200L Solar Generator for $898.98 on Amazon (with $100 coupon applied). That's marked down from its $1,599 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: BLUETTI Bluetti Solar Generator AC200L $898.98 at Amazon
$1,599 Save $700.02 Get Deal

When you need serious backup power that can keep up with your lifestyle, whether it’s off-grid adventures or emergency home use, the Bluetti AC200L deserves a spot on your shortlist. Right now on Amazon, it’s available for just $998.98, but an extra $100 off coupon drops it to $898.98 — the lowest-ever price according to camelcamelcamel.

This coupon runs until July 28, and the total discount makes for an impressive 44% off the regular $1,599 price tag.

An upgrade from the popular AC200MAX, the AC200L is a reliable generator that packs a 2048Wh LiFePO₄ battery and a hefty 2400W output (up to 3,600W with Power Lifting) — enough to handle fridges, microwaves, and even heavy-duty tools.

SEE ALSO: Best portable generators for camping, power outages, and more

You also get four AC outlets, a 30A RV port, and a total of 11 ports, including fast-charging USB-C and 48V DC.

If you need more juice, you can scale it up to a whopping 8192Wh with expansion batteries like the B300K, B300, or B230. And when you're low on time, its 45-minute 0–80% fast recharge via AC input sounds like an absolute game-changer.

Whether you're powering your RV, prepping for storms, or just tired of noisy gas generators, the AC200L offers clean, reliable energy in a portable design that’s built to last. Outside of big tech sale events like Prime Day, deals this strong don’t come around too often, so snag it before the coupon expires.

If you need a portable power deal that’s even more budget-friendly, the Jackery Explorer 300 is still at its best price at $169 right now. For a little extra power, the Jackery Explorer 2000 is on sale at 40% off.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The 5 best party speakers, tested for sound, portability, and fun

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:00

If you love to host big gatherings, then the best party speakers are an absolute must.

You’re probably asking, “What’s the difference between standard Bluetooth speakers and party speakers?” There's no hard and fast definition, so let's just say we know it when we hear it.

Party speakers are more robust in size, specs, and bass. They’re engineered with bigger drivers and woofers to bump music at insanely high levels. The batteries in these models are higher capacity, and in some cases, can be swapped out to extend playtime. Some speakers even come with DJ features like instrument compatibility and RGB lights. While there's a lot of overlap between portable speakers and party speakers, we prioritize portability in the former (duh) and big, thumping sound in the latter.

Some of the speakers tested for this review. Credit: Alex Bracetti / Mashable

The Mashable tech and shopping teams stay on top of the latest Bluetooth speaker releases, using our expertise and hands-on experiences to determine the market’s most favorable offerings. I've also personally tested dozens of speakers in the last couple years, focusing on features such as overall audio quality, battery life, portability, sturdiness, and whether they serve best for indoor or outdoor play (or both).

So, what is the best party speaker for summer 2025? Mashable’s top picks include the class-leading JBL PartyBox Stage 320, along with audio powerhouses like the Sony ULT Field 7 and Ultimate Ears Hyperboom.

Categories: IT General, Technology

This discounted MacBook Pro still has the Touch Bar magic

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: This refurbished 2017 Apple MacBook Pro is on sale for just $329.97 (reg. $1,499) — its lowest price yet.

  • 3.1GHz Intel Core i5 processor with Turbo Boost keeps things smooth while multitasking

  • 512GB SSD gives you tons of storage for files, apps, and creative projects

  • 13.3″ Retina display with 2560×1600 resolution is bright, crisp, and ideal for editing or streaming

  • Second-gen Touch Bar and Touch ID for fast logins and smart controls

  • Four Thunderbolt 3 ports let you charge, connect monitors, and transfer data at high speeds

  • Weighs just over 3 pounds — perfect for commuting, class, or coffee shops

  • Grade “A” refurbished rating means near-mint condition with little to no scuffing

Make this laptop your new sidekick. This refurbished MacBook Pro is available for $329.97 while supplies last.

See Deal

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro 13" Touchbar (2017) 3.1GHz i5 8GB RAM 512GB SSD Space Gray (Refurbished) $324.97
$1,499 Save $1,174.03 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Shred your personal data with this $30 tool

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Tired of leaving behind a digital footprint? Wipe your data with this Data Shredder Stick for Windows, on sale for just $59.99 with free shipping.

As we move further along our paper-free journey, paper shredders, a tried-and-true way to discard important information, can’t exactly shred digital documents. Trashing documents isn’t enough, either. Most of the time, deleted files aren’t even fully wiped from your computer, especially if they’re connected to cloud storage services. So, what do you do?

Paraben Consumer Software built a military-grade data overwriting tool for Windows users to securely erase files, folders, and drives. For a limited time, you can grab a Data Shredder Stick for $59.99.

Data deletion in three simple steps

If you think paper shredders are a thing of the past, this Data Shredder sticks to its classic, retro roots with its USB design. This tool is compatible with Windows computers 7, 10, 11, and so on. Simply plug the stick into your device and run the app.

From there, just like your favorite drive softwares — think Google Drive — the Data Shredder Stick features a user-friendly interface, so all you need to do is drag-and-drop files you’d like to wipe. Want to shred an entire drive? Select it and shred away.

Unlike tossing files to the digital trashcan, the Data Stick overwrites the space old files once occupied, so no part of them can be recovered.

Unlimited data privacy

Whether you’re selling, trading in, or upgrading to a new Windows laptop, the Data Shredder Stick can be used on as many computers and drives as you want.

Protect your data all in one simple tool. Get a Data Shredder Stick for $59.99 with free shipping.

See Deal

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Paraben Consumer Software Data Shredder Stick Secure Data Wiping Tool for Windows $59.99
Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Get 2TB of truly private storage for life for just $130

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Secure 2TB of lifetime cloud storage with Scramble Cloud now for just $129.99 (reg. $172).

If privacy is important to you, finding a trustworthy cloud storage option can be tough. That’s where Scramble Cloud comes in, offering end-to-end encryption so strong that even Scramble can’t access your files. And right now, you can secure 2TB of lifetime cloud storage for just $129.99 (reg. $172).

Stop overpaying for cloud storage that spies on you

Whether you’re sick of paying a fortune in cloud storage fees month after month, or you’re creeped out by the big guys being able to access your data, Scramble Cloud solves both problems.

With Scramble Cloud, you’ll pay just once and secure an ample 2TB of cloud storage, and it’s less than you would pay yearly for other cloud storage services. They also offer end-to-end encryption, so your data is encrypted before it even leaves your device. No third parties are able to access it — even Scramble Cloud itself.

If you do want to share a file with someone, Scramble Cloud lets you create encrypted groups to share documents or watch your videos securely. Using your storage for work purposes? A team link option allows for smooth collaboration on files with external and internal partners with an easy, secure link.

Accessing your files is easy on any device via desktop client, WebDAV, or web app. They also offer a convenient way to organize your files with a familiar folder layout, a drag-and-drop interface, and instant preview access. You can also mount your storage as a network drive using WebDAV.

Enjoy peace of mind knowing your data is safe and secure with 2TB of lifetime cloud storage from Scramble Cloud, now only $129.99 (reg. $172).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Scramble Cloud Scramble Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription (2TB) $129.99
$172 Save $42.01 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Autio brings history, mystery, and celebrity to your drive for 67% off

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 11:00

TL;DR: Score a lifetime Autio Unlimited Plan for $99.99 (reg. $299.99) and stream audio stories based on your location — even offline.

If your summer road trip playlist is already feeling stale, it might be time for something a little more…epic. We’re talking movie stars-in-your-passenger-seat levels of epic. With Autio, your phone turns into a living map of stories — and it’s way more fun than staring at highway signs and guessing what town you’re in. For a limited time, save 67% on a lifetime subscription to Autio and pay just $99.99 to use it for life with no recurring fees.

Autio taps into over 23,000 location-based stories, all professionally narrated and ready to play as you pass through new places. Instead of awkward silence or your friend’s bad DJ skills, you’ll hear fascinating tidbits about the area you’re driving through — from history and music to geology, sports, and culture. It’s basically like riding shotgun with your favorite celebs, like Kevin Costner, Phil Jackson, John Lithgow, and more.

And it’s not just for big road trips. You can use Autio while running errands or exploring your own city — anytime you want a quick dose of storytelling that’s smarter than your average podcast.

Heading off the grid? No stress — Autio has offline mode, so you can download stories ahead of time. And you won’t get bored, either, because new stories are added weekly.

If your summer plans involve a car and a destination, make the ride just as exciting as the arrival.

Hit the road with 23,000 stories in your pocket and get the Autio Unlimited Plan while it’s still $99.99 (reg. $299.99).

See Deal

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Opens in a new window Credit: Autio Autio Unlimited Plan: Lifetime Subscription $99.99
$299.99 Save $200 Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Perseids meteor shower in July: Viewing tips, when it will peak

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:57

The night sky will be getting a little more exciting over the coming weeks as the Perseid meteor shower makes its return. One of the most spectacular astronomical events of the year, this meteor shower has been catching our attention yearly and is considered one of the best.

Want to know a bit more before you watch the shooting stars? We've found all the information you need for the upcoming celestial event.

What is the Perseid meteor shower?

The Perseid meteor shower is so much more than pretty lights zooming across our skies. According to NASA, the shower occurs when Earth passes through a trail of debris left behind by the 16-mile-long comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which orbits the sun roughly every 133 years.

When these tiny fragments enter our atmosphere at high speeds, they then burn up, creating the bright streaks of light we call meteors. The Perseids are particularly distinguishable thanks to their fireballs. As the name suggests, these are more extreme bursts of light that last longer than the average meteor. This is because "fireballs originate from larger particles of cometary material," NASA says.

When is the Perseid meteor shower?

The Perseid meteor shower will be active from July 17 until August 23.

When will the Perseid meteor shower peak?

There is a chance to catch glimpses of the meteor shower every day in its active period (cloud cover dependent), but NASA figures say the peak dates will be August 12-13. On these days, you can expect to see at least 50 to 100 per hour.

How to see the Perseid meteor shower

NASA tells us that the best time to go meteor shower hunting is before dawn. As always, choose a dark location away from light pollution to raise your chances of seeing it, and don't forget to give your eyes time to adjust.

On the peak nights, the moon phase will be Waning Gibbous, when it starts to lose light on its right side. It'll still be fairly lit (88% and 79%), following the full moon on August 9, so this may affect visibility.

Here's hoping for a cloudless night, and lots of shooting stars

Categories: IT General, Technology

Our favourite budget-friendly earbuds are back to under $20

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:53

SAVE 50%: The Soundcore by Anker P20i True Wireless Earbuds are down to just $19.98 at Amazon. That's a hefty price cut from their usual $39.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore by Anker P20i True Wireless Earbuds $19.98 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $20.01 Get Deal

We’re used to seeing wireless earbuds at these prices during events like Prime Day, but it looks like Amazon has made an exception. The Soundcore by Anker P20i true wireless earbuds are back to half price with a limited-time deal, going from $39.99 to $19.97 — one cent shy of its all-time low price according to price tracker camelcamelcamel.

Don’t mistake that price drop with a drop in quality, because the Anker Soundcore P20i are our favourite budget earbuds in our roundup of the nine best models to buy in 2025. With oversized 10mm drivers, these are tuned for an excellent bass — the kind that lets you feel your music instead of just hearing it. You can keep tuning the presets on the companion app until you find an audio combo that’s right for you. 

SEE ALSO: Don't break the bank: The best budget earbuds, tested by our audio experts

Battery life is another high point. A single charge gets you 10 hours of playtime, with the included case bumping that up to a whopping 30 hours. Even better, a 10-minute quick charge gives two hours of use, which is clutch when you're racing out the door. You’ll also get Bluetooth 5.3 for a stable connection, IPX5 water resistance for sweaty workouts or surprise rain, and a “Find My Earbuds” feature to help recover any rogue buds lost in couch cushions — even putting it a step up from standard Apple AirPods.

There’s also customisation galore via the Soundcore app, with 22 EQ presets and full control mapping. Two built-in mics combined with an AI algorithm help boost your voice on calls, which means you won’t need to yell into your phone like it’s 2009.

Oh, and the whole thing fits in your palm — with a lanyard loop for clipping to your keys, bag, or belt. Whether you're commuting, working out, or just vibing, these are an easy, no-risk upgrade.

We were a little disappointed there’s no noise cancellation or mult-point connection, but at under 20 bucks, these earbuds are punching way above their weight class. But at this price, they probably won’t last long.

If you want to keep upgrading your on-the-go tech on a budget, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is also on sale at its lowest price ever at 47% off. For even more earbuds, check out our list of the three best earbuds for sleeping.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Stephen Colbert has a blunt response to Trump gloating over his shows cancellation

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:51

"Folks, I'm gonna go ahead and say it: Cancel culture has gone too far."

This is the joke Stephen Colbert started his Monday night monologue off with, just a few days after the news broke that The Late Show is being cancelled by CBS — shortly after Colbert called out the network's parent company, Paramount, for what he described as "a big fat bribe" paid to President Donald Trump.

Despite the grim news, Colbert kept his usual light tone, joking about the timing of CBS' decision to pull the plug before responding directly to Trump gloating over the cancellation on Truth Social and saying that Colbert's "talent was even less than his ratings."

"How dare you, sir? Would an untalented man be able to compose the following satirical witticism?" Colbert says in the clip above, before turning to stare into a side camera. "Go **** yourself."

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch England vs. Italy online for free

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:46

TL;DR: Watch England vs. Italy in Women's Euro 2025 for free on ITVX. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The first Women's Euro 2025 semi final sees England take on Italy for a place in the showpiece event. England squeezed past Sweden in the quarter finals after an excruciating penalty shootout. Italy got the job done in normal time, but only just. Cristiana Girelli scored a 90th minute winner to knock out Norway.

If you want to watch England vs. Italy in Women's Euro 2025 for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is England vs. Italy?

England vs. Italy in Women's Euro 2025 kicks off at 8 p.m. BST on July 22. This fixture takes place at the Stade de Genève.

How to watch England vs. Italy for free

England vs. Italy in Women's Euro 2025 is available to live stream for free on ITVX.

ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another country, meaning you can unblock free live streams on sites like ITVX from anywhere in the world.

Live stream England vs. Italy in Women's Euro 2025 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 UK

  4. Visit ITVX

  5. Stream England vs. Italy in Women's Euro 2025 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 England vs. Italy (plus the rest of the tournament) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for ITVX?

ExpressVPN is the best service 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 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 just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Watch England vs. Italy in Women's Euro 2025 for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros (July 22) online for free

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:46

TL;DR: Live stream Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros (July 22) for free on MLB.TV. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The MLB action continues this week with Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros. The Astros are leading the way in the American League West, but this is not going to be a straightforward game for the table toppers. We're expecting a close game between two talented teams.

If you want to watch Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros?

Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros starts at 9:40 p.m. ET on July 22. This fixture takes place at Chase Field.

How to watch Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros for free

Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros is available to live stream for free on MLB.TV.

You can watch this free MLB game anywhere that MLB.TV is available, although local blackout restrictions apply in the U.S. and Canada. If you're unable to access this free live stream in your location, you can consider using a VPN. These tools can hide your digital location and connect you to a secure server in another location, meaning you can bypass geo-restrictions to live stream Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros 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 a location with access

  4. Visit MLB.TV

  5. Stream Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros 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 most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream a wide range of MLB games before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for MLB.TV?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for live streaming sport for free on platforms like MLB.TV, 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 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 just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Jon Stewart reacts to Stephen Colberts cancellation in scathing 15-minute monologue

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 10:45

Jon Stewart spent half of his monologue on Monday railing against CBS, a network owned by the same company that runs the Daily Show, and which recently made the controversial decision to cancel The Late Show for "financial reasons" — just days after host Stephen Colbert called them out for paying "a big fat bribe" to President Trump.

In the video above Stewart makes his feelings about the cancellation, and the possible reasons for it, abundantly clear, highlighting the proposed $8 billion merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media that would require the Trump administration's approval to go ahead.

"Look, I understand the corporate fear. I understand the fear that you and your advertisers have $8 billion at stake. But understand this: Truly, the shows that you now seek to cancel, censor and control, a not insignificant portion of that $8 billion value came from those fucking shows. That's what made you that money," Stewart said. "If you believe, as corporations or as networks, you can make yourselves so innocuous that you can serve a gruel so flavorless that you will never again be on the boy king's radar, A) Why will anyone watch you?, and B) You're fucking wrong."

Categories: IT General, Technology

Tesla Diner & Drive-In opens in California

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 08:51

This week, Californians are learning what happens when a man with no taste opens an eatery. The Tesla Diner & Drive-In officially opened in Hollywood at 4:20pm on Monday, a time no doubt chosen due to CEO Elon Musk's well-documented fascination with the number's association to marijuana.

SEE ALSO: Tesla faces jury over its autopilot feature, as trial over fatal crash opens

"If our retro-futuristic diner turns out well, which I think it will, @Tesla will establish these in major cities around the world, as well as at Supercharger sites on long distance routes," Musk posted on X. "An island of good food, good vibes & entertainment, all while Supercharging!"

In the light of day and without the benefit of its neon signage, the grey metallic Tesla Diner & Drive-In building looks a bit like a cross between a stainless steel toilet, a UFO design from the '50s, and, appropriately, a car showroom. Described by Musk as "Grease meets The Jetsons with Supercharging," Tesla states that the two-storey "retro-futuristic" diner can seat over 250 people, and has 80 V4 Supercharger stations for patrons to top up their electric vehicles. It also has two 20-metre LED screens which will show movies, with schedules available on Tesla touchscreens.

Credit: Robyn Beck / AFP via Getty Images

Unsurprisingly, the Tesla Diner & Drive-In is reportedly filled with Tesla technology. A humanoid Optimus robot has been seen distributing popcorn to patrons, while NBC reports that the business has Cybertruck-themed containers for its food. It's unclear if these will be permanent fixtures at the diner, or if they are merely flourishes for the grand opening.

Musk's diner will be open 24/7, serving standard diner fare such as hot dogs, tuna melts, fried chicken with waffles, and grilled cheese sandwiches, as well as a selection of "Charged Sodas" which include "natural caffeine." The diner also lists a $13.50 "Tesla Burger" on its menu, described as a "juicy diner-style burger with smashed, crunchy edges made from ⅓ lb. prime Brandt Beef with New School American cheese, lettuce, caramelized onions, pickles, and Electric Sauce on a Martin's Potato Roll." It is not clear what "Electric Sauce" is.

Credit: Mashable screenshot: Tesla

The kitchen is headed by Eric Greenspan, a Los Angeles chef known for running ghost kitchens (restaurants that have no physical eat-in location, and can only be ordered from for delivery or takeaway). Other chefs have previously expressed apprehension about getting involved with Musk or his culinary venture, the New York Times reporting that some turned down requests that they operate it.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get a lifetime license of PDF Conversion and more for just $24

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 06:00

TL;DR: Finally make peace with PDF files with this lifetime license to PDF Converter Pro; now just $23.99 with code SAVE20.

Opens in a new window Credit: Acethinker PDF Converter Pro: Lifetime License $23.99
$99.99 Save $76 with code SAVE20 Get Deal

Whether you're filling out forms, signing contracts, or reviewing documents, PDFs have a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect them. If you're armed with PDF Converter Pro, handling them doesn't have to be a headache.

You can score a lifetime subscription to PDF Converter Pro for just $23.99, a $76 savings, when you use code SAVE20.

Let PDF Converter Pro take the pain out of PDFs

PDF Converter Pro takes the frustration out of working with PDFs. This all-in-one tool lets you quickly convert PDFs into formats like Microsoft Word, Excel, HTML, JPG, and more. And if you need to convert them the other way, it's just as easy to turn your files into PDFs in just a few clicks. 

The conversion process is done at an ultra-fast speed, but that doesn't mean the file quality is sacrificed. You'll see high output quality with the integrity of your files remaining intact every time. 

Aside from converting PDFs, PDF Converter Pro includes extra tools that help you work with this pesky file format. Built-in OCR technology helps you extract text from image-based PDFs. And you can also merge, split, or compress PDFs easily. 

If you're working with sensitive information, PDF Converter Pro offers password protection and the ability to lock and unlock your files. Want a little more security? They also allow for encryption. 

Secure this lifetime subscription to PDF Converter Pro for just $23.99 with code SAVE20

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Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions online for free

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 06:00

TL;DR: Live stream First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions for free on RugbyPass TV. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The 2025 British and Irish Lions secured a victory over the Wallabies at the weekend, but the work doesn't stop there. They've already beat the Western Force, Reds, Waratahs, Brumbies, and the AUNZ Invitational XV on this tour, and next they face a First Nations & Pasifika XV. This is an opportunity for players who didn't make the Test lineup to make their voices heard.

If you want to watch First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions?

First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions starts at 11 a.m. BST on July 22. This fixture takes place at the Marvel Stadium.

How to watch First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions for free

First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions is available to live stream for free on RugbyPass TV.

This free live stream is geo-restricted to the U.S., but anyone from around the world can gain access with a VPN. These tools can hide your digital location and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can bypass geo-restrictions to live stream First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions from anywhere in the world.

Live stream First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions 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. Visit RugbyPass TV

  5. Stream First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions 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 most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream this fixture before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for RugbyPass TV?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on free platforms like RugbyPass TV, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.

  • 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 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 just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. Lions for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Stuff Your Kindle Day takes place on July 22 — download 1000s of free romance books

Mashable - Tue, 07/22/2025 - 06:00

FREE BOOKS: The latest Stuff Your Kindle Day takes place on July 22. Romance Book Blast, hosted by Indie Authors, is offering romance books in a wide variety of subgenres.

Stuff Your Kindle Day is back once again, and this time it's for all the romantics out there. Romance Book Blast, hosted by Indie Authors, is offering romance books in a wide variety of subgenres for free. And the books that you download are yours to keep forever.

It's not every day that you get the opportunity to give your library a serious boost without spending anything. It's not that rare, either. It was only last week that we were shouting about the free science fiction and dystopia book giveaway, and now this. What a time to be a bookworm.

SEE ALSO: The best Kindles in 2025

Looking to make the most of the latest Stuff Your Kindle Day? We've lined up everything you need to know about this popular event.

When is Stuff Your Kindle Day?

Romance Book Blast takes place on July 22. Recent Stuff Your Kindle Days have taken place over a few days, but this is a 24-hour event. That means you need to get organized and act fast. These free books aren't going to stick around for long.

Who can take part in Stuff Your Kindle Day?

The best thing about Stuff Your Kindle Day is that anyone can participate. Kindle, Kobo, and Nook readers can download these books for free. You can even download these books on your preferred app and read them straight from your phone.

Which e-books are free?

Finding all of these free romance books is straightforward thanks to the helpful hub page on Indie Author Central. Everything organized by subgenre, with something for everyone:

All of the listed titles could be yours for absolutely nothing or at a heavily discounted rate. Some titles may not be available for free in all marketplaces, so make sure to double-check the price before purchasing.

Is Stuff Your Kindle Day the same as Amazon Kindle Unlimited?

Everything you download on Stuff Your Kindle Day is yours to keep, and there's no limit on the number of books you can download. Stuff Your Kindle Day downloads don't count towards the 20 books that Amazon Kindle Unlimited subscribers can borrow at the same time, so don't hold back.

The best Stuff Your Kindle Day deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle (16GB) + 3 Months of Kindle Unlimited $109.99 at Amazon
$145.96 Save $35.97 Get Deal Why we like it

These popular e-readers help you take your entire library on the go. With weeks of battery life and an anti-glare display, you can read anywhere and anytime with the Kindle. Prices start at $109.99, but if you want to save even more, you can get three months of Kindle Unlimited absolutely free during Stuff Your Kindle Day.

Kindle Unlimited costs $11.99 per month and allows you to borrow up to 20 months at a time. For a limited time, you can get three months of Kindle Unlimited for free, saving you $35.97.

Categories: IT General, Technology
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