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TL;DR: Live stream Sabalenka vs. Svitolina in the 2026 Australian Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Only a handful of players are still in contention to win the 2026 Australian Open. We've reached the semi-final stage of the first Grand Slam of the season, with Sabalenka vs. Svitolina serving up the first game of this round.

Elena Svitolina has never made a Grand Slam final, but she's fresh from beating Coco Gauff in straight sets. She'll need to carry that impressive form into this matchup, as top seed Sabalenka is incredibly tough to beat. Sabalenka has already won this competition twice before, and will be looking to move on from last year's final defeat to Madison Keys.

If you want to watch Sabalenka vs. Svitolina in the 2026 Australian Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Sabalenka vs. Svitolina for free

Sabalenka vs. Svitolina in the 2026 Australian Open is available to live stream for free on 9Now.

9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can unblock 9Now from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the 2026 Australian Open by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Visit 9Now

5. Watch the 2026 Australian Open for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can live stream Sabalenka vs. Svitolina without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch the Australian Open before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for 9Now?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live tennis on 9Now, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Australia

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $59.88 and includes an extra three months for free — 69% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Sabalenka vs. Svitolina in the 2026 Australian Open for free with ExpressVPN.

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

Smooth.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

SLEEK

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A small fish.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for January 29, 2026 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

GUPPY

Hurdle Word 3 hint

A large horned mammal.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for January 29 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 29, 2026 Hurdle Word 3 answer

RHINO

Hurdle Word 4 hint

That one.

Hurdle Word 4 answer

WHICH

Final Hurdle hint

A baby cat.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

KITTY

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

Meta leadership knew that the company's AI companions, referred to as AI characters, could engage in inappropriate and sexual interactions and still launched them without stronger controls, according to new internal documents revealed on Monday (Jan. 28) as part of a lawsuit against the company by the New Mexico attorney general.

The communications, sent between Meta safety teams and platform leadership that didn't include CEO Mark Zuckerberg, include objections to building companion chatbots that could be used by adults and minors for explicit romantic interactions. Ravi Sinha, head of Meta’s child safety policy, and Meta global safety head Antigone Davis sent messages agreeing that chatbot companions should have safeguards against sexually explicit interactions by users under 18. Other communications allege Zuckerberg rejected recommendations to add parental controls, including the option to turn off genAI features, before the launch of AI companions shortly thereafter.

SEE ALSO: TikTok settles as Meta and Google face jury in social media addiction suit

Meta is facing multiple lawsuits pertaining to its products and their impact on minor users, including a potential landmark jury trial over the allegedly addictive design of sites like Facebook and Instagram. Meta's competitors, including YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat, are under tightening legal scrutiny, as well.

The newly released communications were part of court discovery in a case against Meta brought by New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez. Torrez first filed a civil lawsuit against Meta in 2023, alleging the company allowed its platforms to become "marketplaces for predators." Internal communications between Meta executives were unsealed and released as the case heads to trial next month.

In November, a plaintiff’s brief from a major multidistrict lawsuit filed in the Northern District of California alleged a lenient policy toward users who violated safety rules, including those reported for "trafficking of humans for sex." Documents also showed that Meta execs allegedly knew of "millions" of adults contacting minors across its sites. "The full record will show that for over a decade, we have listened to parents, researched issues that matter most, and made real changes to protect teens," a Meta spokesperson told TIME.

SEE ALSO: After settling lawsuit, Snapchat adds new parental controls for teens

"This is yet another example of the New Mexico Attorney General cherry-picking documents to paint a flawed and inaccurate picture," said Meta spokesperson Andy Stone in response to the new documents.

Meta paused teen use of its chatbots in August, following a report by Reuters that found Meta's internal AI rules permitted chatbots to engage in conversations that were "sensual" or "romantic" in nature. The company later revised its safety guidelines, barring content that "enables, encourages, or endorses" child sexual abuse, romantic role play when involving minors, and other sensitive topics. Last week, Meta once again locked down AI chatbots for young users as it explored a new version with enhanced parental controls.

Torrez has led other state attorneys general in seeking to take major social media platforms to court over child safety concerns. In 2024, Torrez sued Snapchat, claiming the platform allowed sextortion and grooming of minors to proliferate while still marketing itself as safe for young users.

SAVE 25%: As of Jan. 28, the TCL 85-inch Class QM7K Series Mini LED TV is on sale for $1,497.97, down from $1,999.99 at Amazon. That's a 25% discount, or $502.02 in savings.

TCL 85-inch Class QM7K Series Mini LED TV (85QM7K) $1,497.97 at Amazon
$1,999.99 Save $502.02   Get Deal at Amazon

With the Super Bowl just around the corner, it’s arguably the best time of year to look for deals on big screens. If you want to turn your living room into a stadium for the big game, this 85-inch TCL is the way to go.

As of Jan. 28, the TCL 85-inch Class QM7K Series Mini LED TV is on sale for $1,497.97, down from $1,999.99, at Amazon. That's a 25% discount, or $502.02 in savings.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

The biggest selling point here (aside from its size) is the Mini LED panel. It uses up to 2,500 local dimming zones to control contrast, so you get deep, inky blacks instead of that washed-out gray look common on budget big screens. It also has an anti-glare screen, which is a major plus if you're watching the game during the day and don't want to stare at a reflection of your window.

TL;DR: The Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G5 gaming monitor is now down to just $159.99 at Amazon. That's a 36% discount off its regular $249.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Saming 27-inch Odyssey G5 G53F QHD Gaming Monitor $159.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $90 Get Deal

You don’t usually see a high-refresh QHD gaming monitors from top brands drop to such a low prices, so this Samsung deal is a perfect opportunity for a gaming setup upgrade. As of Jan. 28, the Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G5 G53F QHD gaming monitor has dropped to just $159.99 at Amazon, marking its lowest price to date — with a 36% discount off its usual $249.99 list price. 

As far as Samsung monitors go, this model's specs tell us that the 27-inch Odyssey G5 is built for players who want smoother gameplay without stepping up to ultra-premium prices. For instance, the QHD resolution (2560 x 1440) offers noticeably sharper detail than standard 1080p, while the IPS panel aims to provide consistent colors and clarity across wide viewing angles. Whether you’re gaming on Arc Raiders, streaming, or juggling multiple apps, it's a clear upgrade from entry-level displays.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

Performance is where this monitor really earns its stripes. A blazing-fast 200Hz refresh rate paired with a 1ms response time means motion will be kept smooth and responsive, even during fast-paced competitive play. Added AMD FreeSync Premium support helps reduce screen tearing and stutter, while HDR10 adds extra depth with brighter highlights and deeper shadows.

Samsung also includes gamer-focused extras like Black Equalizer for better visibility in dark scenes and Auto Source Switch+, which should make jumping between devices effortless. At under $160, it’s one of the most affordable ways to step into high-refresh 1440p gaming right now.

If you’re open to spending a bit more and would like a curved model, the 49-inch Samsung Odyssey G9 is $300 off. Plus, the LG UltraGear 34-inch OLED gaming monitor is almost half price at Amazon. 

TL;DR: Invest wisely and confidently with a lifetime subscription to this OpenAI-powered app, Sterling Stock Picker, now just $55.19 (reg. $486) through Feb. 15.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sterling Stock Picker Sterling Stock Picker: Lifetime Subscription $55.19
$486 Save $430.81   Get Deal

Too cautious to invest in the stock market? Being risk-aware shouldn’t bar you from investing — you just need the right tools. Sterling Stock Picker is an app with a personal finance coach, powered by OpenAI, ready to help you invest in stocks that align with your personal goals and risk preferences.

Right now, you can secure a lifetime subscription to Sterling Stock Picker for only $55.19 (reg. $486) through Feb. 15.

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Sterling Stock Picker is an AI-powered app that helps you invest confidently thanks to its North Star Rating System. This patent-pending technology shows you whether to buy, sell, hold, or avoid certain stocks, with AI-powered insights you can trust. The highest North Star rankings are stock rockets, companies with over 50% quarterly revenue growth, making them easy to identify.

Though it’s powered by the makers of ChatGPT, this app keeps things personal. A five-minute questionnaire will provide Sterling Stock Picker with information about your values, investment goals, and risk preferences, helping you find the best stocks for your portfolio. And if you’d prefer not to weigh in, there’s a Done-for-You Portfolio option.

If you’d like to be more hands-on, learn more about the stock market with your own personal finance coach, Finley. This OpenAI-powered tool can answer questions about your portfolio, an individual stock, or the market as a whole. There’s also a community chat forum where you can discuss investment strategies and ask questions to fellow investors.

Secure your lifetime subscription to Sterling Stock Picker for just $55.19 (reg. $486) now through Feb. 15.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Scan documents right from your smartphone or tablet with a lifetime subscription to the iScanner App, now just $27.99 with code SCAN through Feb. 15.

Opens in a new window Credit: iScanner iScanner App: Lifetime Subscription $27.99
$199.90 Save $171.91   Get Deal

Thanks to our laptops, many of us can work from anywhere. That means our office tools need to travel, too. Since you can’t pack up a clunky scanning machine, there’s now iScanner App. This helpful tool turns your smartphone or tablet into a portable scanner, and right now, a lifetime subscription is all yours for just $27.99 with code SCAN through Feb. 15.

Since we almost always have a smartphone nearby, the iScanner App lets you also carry around a scanning device at all times. Over 55 million people are already using it to transform their iPhone or iPad into a digitizing machine, taking physical documents and scanning them in just a few taps.

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Whether you have to submit a form with your signature or you’re trying to save something sentimental, like a handwritten note, iScanner makes it easy to scan. All you have to do is point your camera at the page, and the app’s AI-powered features detect and adjust the borders to deliver a top-quality scan.

Once you scan, you can edit within the app with color-correction and noise-removal tools. You can save your scans as different file types — choose from PDF, JPG, DOC, XLS, PPT, or TXT.

Speaking of PDFs, the iScanner App lets you edit them if needed. It has tools for signing, adding text, and auto-filling PDFs. It also has scanning modes for text translation, object counting, measurements, and more.

If it wasn’t multitasking enough, you can also use the iScanner App as a document manager. It organizes your scans into folders, and you can use the drag-and-drop feature to sort them, or lock folders and files with a PIN for privacy.

Get a lifetime subscription to the iScanner App, now just $27.99 with code SCAN through Feb. 15.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Samsung's next journey into the foldable frontier is underway in the form of the Galaxy TriFold, a foldable smartphone featuring two folds instead of one. 

Just a few months after launching the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 foldables, Samsung officially announced the TriFold, a smartphone that has two folding screens, resulting in three panels of usable phone, plus an external cover display. The internal screen measures a whopping 10 inches, comparable in size to a Galaxy Tab, and it folds down into a normal-sized 6.5-inch phone once fully closed. 

SEE ALSO: Did the foldable iPhone just get leaked? Seems like it.

Mashable got to go hands-on with the Galaxy TriFold at CES 2026, and we haven't been able to stop thinking about it ever since. Plus, because the phone has been released in Korea, we know pretty much everything about this unique foldable, including the U.S. release date and price.

Samsung Galaxy TriFold: Pricing

Samsung has finally made the U.S. price for the TriFold official. Are you ready for this? You better sit down, first.

Samsung recently announced that the Galaxy TriFold will cost U.S. shoppers a whopping $2,900. Yes, that's the right number. It's not a typo. We hope you've been saving up.

Rumor has it that Samsung is losing money with each TriFold it sells, which might explain why the price is even higher than we expected.

Samsung Galaxy TriFold: U.S. release date

Additionally, alongside the price, Samsung announced that the TriFold will finally be available for U.S. shoppers starting Jan. 30. Again, you'll have to spend a lot of money, but it'll be there.

Samsung Galaxy TriFold: Specs Credit: SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg via Getty Images

According to the official announcement, here are the specs coming on the Galaxy TriFold:

• Cover screen: 6.5-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.

• Interior screen: 10-inch QXGA (2160 x 1584)  Dynamic AMOLED 2X with 120Hz adaptive refresh rate

• CPU: Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy 

• RAM and Storage: 16GB of RAM and 512GB or 1TB of storage

• Rear cameras: 12 MP ultra-wide / 200 MP wide-angle / 10 MP telephoto

• Front cameras: 10 MP selfie camera (cover screen) / 10 MP selfie camera (main screen)

• Battery size: 5,600 mAh three-cell battery

• Dimensions (folded): 159.2 x 75.0 x 12.9mm

• Dimensions (unfolded): 159.2 x 214.1 x 3.9mm / 4.2mm / 4.0mm (screen with SIM tray, center screen, and screen with side button, respectively)

• Weight: 309 grams

In terms of processors, cameras, RAM, and all that other fun stuff, these specs are pretty similar to what you'd find in a Z Fold 7. The 6.5-inch cover display stands out especially, as the one on the Z Fold 7 is the exact same size. The 10-inch interior display, however, will be significantly larger than the 8-inch equivalent in the Z Fold 7. That's the big selling point here: When it's folded, this is sized like a bigger traditional smartphone, but when you unfold it, you're unlikely to find any phone with a bigger display.

Initially, thickness was a potential issue, as a trifold smartphone was bound to be a hair bit thicker than anything else on the market. At 12.9mm, it is a thick smartphone. For reference, the super-thin Galaxy Z Fold 7 is just 8.9mm when folded, which makes the Galaxy X TriFold about a third thicker than its closest sibling. Whether or not that’s a dealbreaker depends exclusively on how thick or thin you want your smartphone to be. 

That’s about the only complaint in an otherwise stellar spec sheet. The battery is nice and big, with Samsung stuffing 5,600 mAh into its three-cell system we first saw in a Korean phone patent. Each cell is hidden in each screen of the display, and it's a 1,200 mAh improvement over the Galaxy Z Fold 7. 

SEE ALSO: Samsung and LG preview new Micro RGB TVs. OK, but what are Micro RGB TVs? What do people think of the Samsung Galaxy TriFold?

Despite the high price tag, the Galaxy TriFold quite literally sold out in minutes. In South Korea, at least, the hype train is real, and Samsung can barely put these things on the shelves fast enough. The next batch is scheduled for Dec. 17th on Samsung’s website, and after that, we don’t know if they’ll have to continue rationing these out like they are now. 

Impressions online have been generally positive, with the few people who have actually had the opportunity to play with the smartphone stating that it’s certainly one of the most interesting smartphones in a while. Online and written impressions from publications are generally very positive, with complaints being fairly mild and often related to refinement, which is understandable given that this is a first-generation product. 

Here's what tech YouTuber Mrwhosetheboss said after trying out the phone: "So, honestly, I don't think the Trifold is this experimental quirky phone option. I actually think that this phone has immediately become the definitive Samsung foldable. You will have to handle it with care and you'll definitely have to pay for the privilege."

Social impressions were mixed, with some folks saying that this is the coolest new smartphone in years, while others are a little more guarded. 

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

"This is the true tablet killer," said one Redditor. Another stated that they were pleased to see Samsung innovating, and pontificated on when Apple would eventually release its first foldable. "Sign me up for one," another Redditor said. "[I’m] bored of my Folds." The most common sentiment among the excited was how absurd it would feel to be able to put a 10-inch tablet in your pocket. 

In terms of complaints, they fell into two camps. Excited people from Europe who are currently experiencing difficulties measuring their disappointment at not receiving a release there, and those wondering how the first-generation device will hold up over the long term. Some expressed worry about screen durability, especially since Samsung is offering a 50 percent discount on the first screen repair. Others are concerned with battery life, believing that the 10-inch display will chew through the 5,600 mAh battery rather quickly. 

With that said, very few people have gotten their hands on a TriFold, so we’ll have to wait a little bit longer to hear first-hand accounts on how it feels to use it day-to-day.

Khaby Lame, the most-followed creator on TikTok, has sold a controlling stake in his core business to Rich Sparkle Holdings in a deal that values the company at roughly $975 million, marking one of the largest and most ambitious efforts yet to turn creator influence into a full-scale commercial platform.

SEE ALSO: The Mashable 101: The creators shaping the internet in 2025

Under the agreement, Rich Sparkle secures exclusive global rights for 36 months to manage and monetize Lame’s digital presence. That includes livestream income, short-form video strategy, supply chain operations, and brand partnerships. The company says Lame will also become a controlling shareholder.

According to reporting from Mint, the transaction positions Rich Sparkle to expand Lame’s brand into categories like beauty, fragrance, and apparel, while also developing an AI-powered digital twin using his likeness, voice, and gestures to produce multilingual content at scale.

The company projects that this closed-loop commerce model (where everything is discovered, bought, and shipped within the same ecosystem) could generate more than $4 billion in annual sales, though that figure remains aspirational.

Samsung is cooking up a fresh new privacy feature for the next Galaxy phones.

The company announced in a pretty vague blog post that it's getting ready to show off new security functions that work "at a pixel level" for Galaxy phones in the near future. We don't have a strict date for when we'll learn more yet, but the smart money would be on the next Galaxy Unpacked event, which is rumored to take place in late February.

We'll presumably see the new Galaxy S26 lineup at Unpacked, and with it, a look at this new privacy shield.

SEE ALSO: Samsung Galaxy XR review: A great Vision Pro alternative, but for whom?

Again, Samsung didn't go deep into how all of this works, but the company claimed it'll be a way for you to do things like enter sensitive passwords in public spaces without strangers peering over your shoulder to see what you're doing. It apparently has granular options that allow you to make the privacy feature work only with certain apps or to censor notification pop-ups.

In a probably-related development, recent leaks all but confirmed that an innovative "Privacy Display" feature is coming to the S26 phones. It seems pretty likely that the features are one and the same, but if so, it would be fairly underwhelming, since we already know about Privacy Display.

Ideally, by the end of February, Samsung will be able to talk more freely about all of this without being so vague.

Apple has released the latest update to its iPhone operating system, and users with compatible devices can update to iOS 26.2.1 immediately.

Compared to the previous iOS 26 updates, the new upgrade is extremely light. The official description is a single short sentence: "This update provides support for AirTag (2nd generation) along with bug fixes."

Apple recently announced the launch of the AirTag 2, after months of rumors and speculation. The new AirTags have a louder speaker and an expanded range. In addition, Apple is offering improved precision-tracking features that point you to the exact location of your missing item, down to the foot.

If you plan to pick up the new AirTag, you'll want to upgrade to iOS 26.2.1. (The new AirTag is the same price as the original version released in 2021, but the original is currently on sale at Amazon.)

Opens in a new window Credit: AirTag 1 (4-pack) AirTag (1st Generation, 4-pack) $69.99 at Amazon
$99 Save $29.01   Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirTag (2nd Generation, 4-pack) $99 at Amazon
  Pre-order Here

We generally recommend upgrading your OS as soon as possible, as these updates usually deliver important security fixes. Strangely, that's not the case with iOS 26.2.1, which doesn't note any security patches.

What's new in iOS 26.2.1?

Still, Apple says iOS 26.2.1 does bring some bug fixes. (If you want to get into the weeds on those fixes, @onejailbreak_ has a detailed breakdown of the tweaks.)

Hopefully, those changes will make Liquid Glass and iOS 26 work more smoothly and solve some of the battery issues users have complained about. Ever since its release, Liquid Glass has been controversial.

And if you're looking for an even more substantial update to your iPhone's OS, you can also sign up for the iOS 26.3 public beta 3, which is also available now.

How to update to iOS 26.2.1

To update your iPhone, go to your device's settings, then tap or click on "General." From there, look for "Software Update," where you'll find the options to "Update Now" or later in the evening while you're sleeping.

TL;DR: Live stream Napoli vs. Chelsea in the Champions League for free on Virgin Media Player. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Champions League group stage is coming to an end. We've got a final round of fixtures to get through before the knockout rounds.

Napoli face Chelsea in one of the most interesting matchups from this round of games. Napoli need a result to move into the playoff positions. Chelsea will probably need a positive result to hold onto a spot in the top eight. No team wants to play extra games, so avoiding the playoff round is a real prize.

If you want to watch Napoli vs. Chelsea in the Champions League from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Napoli vs. Chelsea?

Napoli vs. Chelsea in the Champions League kicks off at 8 p.m. GMT on Jan. 28. This fixture takes place at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.

How to watch Napoli vs. Chelsea for free

Napoli vs. Chelsea is available to live stream for free on Virgin Media Player.

Virgin Media Player is geo-restricted to Ireland, 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 Ireland, meaning you can unblock Virgin Media Player to stream the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Napoli vs. Chelsea 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 Ireland

4. Visit Virgin Media Player

5. Watch Napoli vs. Chelsea 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 access free live streams of the Champions League without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Napoli vs. Chelsea (plus more Champions League fixtures) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Virgin Media Player?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including Ireland

• 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 10 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. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Napoli vs. Chelsea in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.

SAVE 26%: As of Jan. 28, the Kodak Dock Plus 4PASS Instant Photo Printer Bundle is on sale for $110.49 at Amazon. That's a 26% discount or $39.50 in savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kodak Kodak Dock Plus 4PASS Instant Photo Printer Bundle $110.49 at Amazon
$149.99 Save $39.50   Get Deal

Most of our best photos live and die on our smartphones. If you'd prefer to have physical 4x6 prints to frame or stick on the fridge, this Kodak dock handles the job at home — and it's currently on sale.

As of Jan. 28, the Kodak Dock Plus 4PASS Instant Photo Printer Bundle is on sale for $110.49 at Amazon. That's a 26% discount and includes a pack of 50 sheets of photo paper, so you can start printing right out of the box.

Instead of the tiny 2x3 stickers you get from most portable printers, this outputs standard 4x6-inch photos. It uses 4PASS technology, which layers color and adds a laminated top coat to make the prints water-resistant and fingerprint-proof. You can physically dock your phone on top to print and charge at the same time, or connect wirelessly via Bluetooth.

SAVE $15: The Orastone rechargable hand warmers are on sale at Amazon for $14.99 each, down from the normal price of $29.99. That's a 50% discount and a sale price we haven't seen since 2024.

Opens in a new window Credit: Orastone Orastone rechargable hand warmer $14.99 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $15.00   Get Deal

It's cold out. Even if you're someone who thrives in cold weather, it's undeniable that keeping fingers and toes warm is a struggle. We have tons of rechargeable hand warmers on the market, but it's a disaster to figure out which ones are worth purchasing. Thankfully, we have Mashable Tech Editor Timothy Beth Werth's expertise, and his favorite hand warmer is on a major discount ahead of a chilly weekend.

As of Jan. 28, the Orastone rechargeable hand warmers are on sale at Amazon for $14.99 each in select colorways, marked down from the normal price of $29.99 each. That's a 50% discount that takes $15 off each hand warmer. In a sense, you're able to warm both hands for the price of one. Today's sale price matches the record low at Amazon, which we haven't seen since 2024.

Instead of letting your fingers go numb, click on this deal to snag Orastone rechargeable hand warmers. Werth has been buying these as gifts for years and mentions they're well worth the (low) price. "Most electric hand warmers work just fine, but are pretty ugly. The Orastone is the rare hand warmer that's actually cute, and it comes with a lanyard you can wrap around your glove-covered hands," Werth wrote in his review.

SEE ALSO: The 55-inch Sony Bravia 3 TV is on sale at Amazon — save over $100 ahead of the Winter Olympics

Orastone says the rechargeable hand warmer heats to about 107 degrees Fahrenheit in less than two minutes, and they last for about three or four hours per charge. As a bonus, they come with a built-in flashlight. These could make for excellent Valentine's Day gifts.

Before the weekend chill hits, get equipped with the Orastone rechargeable hand warmers. They're on sale for under $15, come in cute colorways, and will come in handy (I'm sorry) for the rest of the winter. Here's to toasty fingers in the future.

Best deals on winter essentials: Best hand warmer deal Orastone Rechargeable Hand Warmer $14.99 (save $15) Get Deal Best space heater deal Lasko 1500W Ceramic Tower Space Heater (751320) $54.99 (save $25) Get Deal Best heated blanket Bedsure Heated Blanket $45.48 (save 23.51) Get Deal

To say this week has been "harsh" feels like an understatement. We currently have 76 million people under freeze alerts, wind chills dropping to -14 in the Midwest, and yes, even the Hudson River is starting to freeze over. To make matters worse, there’s another storm tracking for the East Coast this weekend.

SEE ALSO: Winter storm snowfall levels: See online how many inches have fallen nationwide

With temperatures staying dangerously low and power outages still affecting thousands, staying warm (and safe!) should be your top priority. If you need to prep your home (or yourself) for the next few days, Amazon has marked down a lot of the essentials. From space heaters to thermal gear, here are a few deals that can help you stay safe on a budget.

Best hand warmer deal Orastone Rechargeable Hand Warmer $14.99 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $15.00   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Hand warmers are an underrated accessory that are usually pretty cheap and super effective. Take the Orastone Rechargeable Hand Warmer, for example. Not only does it have more than 6K reviews on Amazon (with a 4.6-star rating), but our Tech Editor, Timothy Beck Werth, swears by them. He’s been buying these little gadgets for years and vouches for their durability and longevity (you’ll probably get two years out of one). Plus, they’re rechargeable and come with a built-in flashlight. What more could you ask for?

More hand warmer deals

• HotHands Hand Warmer Value Pack —$7.47 $9.99 (save $2.52)

• Lerat Rechargeable Hand Warmers (2-Pack) —$9.99 $11.99 (save $2)

• KILeap Rechargeable Hand Warmers (2-Pack) —$29.98 $35.99 (save $6.01)

Best space heater deal Lasko 1500W Oscillation Electric Ceramic Tower Space Heater with Remote $54.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $25.00   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

If your thermostat just isn’t cutting it, a space heater can help break the chill. The Lasko 1500W Ceramic Tower Space Heater (751320) is a pretty good buy for anyone looking for a tower model. It’s ideal for keeping your bedroom or a medium-sized living room toasty and features an adjustable thermostat (with remote) and oscillation for even heat distribution. It also has a built-in carry handle, so you can move it from room to room without much hassle.

More space heater deals

• BLACK+DECKER 1500W Portable Space Heater — $21.99 $31.33 (save $9.64)

• Dreo 1500W Portable Space Heater — $37.99 $39.99 (save $2)

• Dr Infrared Heater 1500W Portable Space Heater — $87.70 $129.99 (save $42.29)

Best heated blanket deal Bedsure Heated Throw Soft Flannel Electric Blanket with 4 Time Settings & 6 Heat Settings (50x60 inches, Grey) $45.48 at Amazon
$68.99 Save $23.51   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

There’s nothing cozier than a heated blanket, and right now Amazon has tons of ‘em on sale. If you’re not sure which one to pick, we recommend the Bedsure Heated Blanket. It’s 34% off right now and has more than 13K reviews (and a 4.3-star rating). This particular model is available in a variety of colors and sizes and offers six heating levels and four time settings. There’s a three-hour auto-shutoff for safety (just in case you fall asleep with it on, or accidentally leave it on the couch or elsewhere unattended). It’s undergone 74 safety checks at Bedsure’s Intertek-recognized lab, and it’s machine washable, so you don’t have to do anything special to keep it clean.

More heated blanket deals

• Beautyrest Heated Throw Blanket — $38.22 $44.99 (save $6.77)

• Sunbeam Royal Ultra Fleece Heated Electric Blanket — $49.41 $59.99 (save $10.58)

• Serta Luxuriously Soft Plush Electric Blanket — $62.05 $68.99 (save $8.94)

SAVE $10: As of Jan. 28, get the Soundcore Sport X20 earbuds for $69.99 at Amazon, down from their usual price of $79.99. That's a discount of 13%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Soundcore Sport X20 $69.99 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $10   Get Deal

If you're looking for a new pair of earbuds to take with you to the gym, not just any will do. You've got to make sure you have waterproof features so you won't ruin them with sweat as well as a fit that keeps them on and in your ears. We've got the perfect pair that ticks both boxes, and they're on sale right now, too.

As of Jan. 28, get the Soundcore Sport X20 earbuds for $69.99 at Amazon, down from their usual price of $79.99. That's a discount of 13%.

SEE ALSO: Travel smarter with these earbuds that translate over 50 languages in real time

These workout earbuds are great for heading to the gym, going on a run, or just playing some sports here and there. They stay put thanks to their adjustable ear hooks, which you can rotate and extend to find the best fit. They have noise-cancellation features as well, so you can block out the world while exercising and keep listening to your favorite songs.

And because you sometimes need to spend longer hours working on your fitness, these earbuds boast a great battery life with over 12 hours on a single charge. You can even get 48 out of them with the included charging case, and about 7 to 28 with noise cancellation, with and without said case.

Since these earbuds are up for grabs for under $70, it's a good time to go ahead and snag them while they're available. Don't miss out and secure yours.

SAVE UP TO $60: Refurbished first-generation Nintendo Switches are on sale at various retailers as of Jan. 28, with prices starting from just $169.99. Choose from the standard Switch, the OLED model, or the Switch Lite.

Shop deals on refurbished Nintendo Switch consoles: Nintendo Switch (Geek Squad Certified Refurbished) $249.99 (save $50) Get Deal Nintendo Switch – OLED Model (Geek Squad Certified Refurbished) $289.99 (save $60) Get Deal Nintendo Switch Lite (Refurbished) $169.99 (save $30) Get Deal

It's a predicament that many of us are facing lately: A new free update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons beckons, but a $450 Nintendo Switch 2 just isn't in the cards.

Before you give up on your dreams of island life, allow me to present an alternative. As of late January, refurbished Switches are on sale for up to $60 off the price of a new system, with options starting at only $169.99. Tom Nook would never be so generous.

At Best Buy, you can take your pick from the standard first-generation Switch (was $299.99, now $249.99) or the prettier OLED model with more storage and a better kickstand (was $349.99, now $289.99). As "Geek Squad Refurbished" units, they're used but fixed up to work like new. They come with 90-day parts and labor warranties.

The Nintendo Switch Lite is ideal for on-the-go gamers. Credit: Haley Henschel / Mashable

If you'd prefer the portable Switch Lite, head to the My Nintendo Store instead. It's on sale there in refurbished condition for $169.99 (was $199.99) in Yellow, Coral, Gray, and Blue. It has a one-year warranty.

SEE ALSO: Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025: the hot console's first year evaluated

The newer Switch 2 is a far better machine than all of its predecessors, to be sure, though you might not be someone who cares deeply about having a bigger screen or 4K video output. For most people, the most important thing is that you can play most of the same games on older Switches. The Switch 2 doesn't have too many notable exclusives at present (just Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, which are pricier than past Switch titles), so your game FOMO should be minimal for the foreseeable future. If you do decide to upgrade down the road, you can trade in your older Switch for some credit and grab cheap upgrade packs for any titles you want to keep playing.

As a final note, I'll mention that discounted refurbished Switches typically sell out fast; it's rare to see all of these in stock. If you're thinking about adding one to your cart, don't dawdle.

A new investigation claims that the Apple and Google app stores hosted dozens of so-called "nudify" AI apps, despite such apps violating the companies' rules.

The Tech Transparency Project (TTP), a research initiative of the nonprofit watchdog Campaign for Accountability, found dozens of apps in both stores that digitally remove clothes, rendering the subjects naked or nearly naked. It found 55 such apps in the Google Play Store and 47 in the Apple App Store.

Wrote TTP:

"The apps identified by TTP have been collectively downloaded more than 705 million times worldwide and generated $117 million in revenue, according to AppMagic, an app analytics firm. Because Google and Apple take a cut of that revenue, they are directly profiting from the activity of these apps."

Both tech giants have responded to the TTP report. Apple told CNBC it had removed 28 apps identified in the TTP report, while Google told the outlet it had "suspended several apps" while noting its investigation was ongoing.

However, the TTP concludes that both App Stores need to do more to stop non-consensual deepfakes.

SEE ALSO: Explicit deepfakes are traumatic. How to deal with the pain.

"TTP’s findings show that Google and Apple have failed to keep pace with the spread of AI deepfake apps that can 'nudify' people without their permission," the report states. "Both companies say they are dedicated to the safety and security of users, but they host a collection of apps that can turn an innocuous photo of a woman into an abusive, sexualized image."

The report from TTP comes on the heels of the controversy surrounding Elon Musk and xAI's Grok, which is under investigation in several countries for creating sexualized, nonconsensual images. A Mashable investigation found that Grok lacks basic safety guardrails to prevent deepfakes. In addition, researchers say Grok has created more than 3 million sexualized images — including more than 20,000 that appeared to depict children — over an 11-day period between Dec. 29 and Jan. 8.

With the dawn of the AI age, sexual deepfakes will continue to be a major issue for tech companies moving forward.

UPDATE: Jan. 28, 2026, 12:43 p.m. EST This story was updated to correct the name of the The Tech Transparency Project and to provide the correct link to the organization.

Shrinking is back, and Season 3 is already packing just as much of an emotional punch as its predecessors.

In a moving hour-long episode that builds to Paul (Harrison Ford) marrying Julie (Wendie Malick), there's one scene right at the end that hits harder than any of the others. So what happens, and what exactly does it mean?

SEE ALSO: 'Shrinking' Season 3 review: My heart can't take it What happens at the end of Shrinking Season 3, episode 1?

The final scene of the episode links back to one of its first scenes, when Paul attends a neurology clinic and meets a fellow patient with Parkinson's, Gerry (a cameo from Michael J. Fox). Paul is experiencing tremors in his left hand, and he has a conversation with Gerry — whose Parkinson's is more advanced — about the various ways the disease is affecting them.

"How's the brain?" asks Gerry at one point. "Any hallucinations?"

"No. Thank God," responds Paul.

"They're the worst. Bad enough your body goes, but then you start seeng shit. It's scary. I didn't even know that was a thing with Parkinson's."

Later, at the very end of the episode, Paul comes in from his wedding to get a glass of water in the kitchen. He turns from the sink and finds Gerry sitting in a chair, tucking into some cake. But moments later, when Julie joins him, it's clear that Gerry isn't really there.

"Oh," says Paul, as he realises what's happening. "You don't see him, do you?"

The scene is a sign that Paul's Parkinson's has continued to progress. He's now experiencing the same hallucinations that Gerry spoke to him about earlier on in the episode.

Is Paul hallucinating throughout the episode?

Some people with Parkinson's may experience hallucinations, sometimes as a side effect of medication or as a symptom of an additional condition. So, is this what's happening with Paul?

The first time Paul meets Gerry, it's pretty clear that he isn't a hallucination. When Paul is called by the doctor, the first thing she says is "Gerry, I'll grab you in a minute," indicating that she can see him too.

It's only at the end of the episode that there's any indication Paul is seeing and hearing something other characters cannot. This is what makes it such a painful moment — like Paul's trembling hand, it's yet another sign that the disease is impacting more and more parts of him.

Shrinking Season 3 is now streaming on Apple TV with new episodes Wednesdays.

SAVE $500.01: As of Jan. 28, get the Oupes Guardian 6000 power station for $1,698.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $2,199. That's a discount of 23% and the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Oupes Guardian 6000 power station $1,698.99 at Amazon
$2,199 Save $500.01   Get Deal

Much of the country was just buffeted by sleet and ice with a powerful snowstorm, and for many, it also meant power outages, some for extended periods of time. If you happen to find yourself without electricity often, a portable power station is your best bet. There's one at Amazon right now that you'd do well to have in a similar emergency, and it's on sale for a great price.

As of Jan. 28, get the Oupes Guardian 6000 power station for $1,698.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $2,199. That's $500.01 off and a discount of 23%. It's also the lowest price we've seen.

SEE ALSO: The Anker Solix C1000 power station is on sale for $429 at Amazon — save over $300

This absolute unit of a power station is everything you need in an emergency. It has a 4608 Wh LiFePO4 battery with 6000W of output (boosted to 7200W) and 120V/240V dual voltage, which is expandable to 41kWh. In short, if you have an emergency that finds you without electricity, it'll be your best friend. It can power everything from small electronics like laptops to fridges and larger items to get you out of an emergency and functioning again.

With 11 output ports, including five AC outlets, it has plenty of space to handle multiple devices at once. Plus, when you deplete the battery, you can charge it from empty to full in just under 90 minutes. That means you won't be left sitting around and waiting for it to charge you back up again.

If you're ready to stop waiting out power outages, this might be a good investment for you. Just be sure to get it while it's available at this low price.