Mashable

Happy Monday and welcome to your guide to Pips, the latest game in the New York Times catalogue.

Today's games are harder than they initially seem, but we have all the tips you need to navigate them.

Released in August 2025, the Pips puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.

Currently, if you're stuck, the game only offers to reveal the entire puzzle, forcing you to move onto the next difficulty level and start over. However, we have you covered! Below are piecemeal answers that will serve as hints so that you can find your way through each difficulty level.

How to play Pips

If you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity for how Pips is played. As we've shared in our previous hints stories for Pips, the tiles, like dominoes, are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. The main difference between a traditional game of dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for October 4, 2025

The conditions you have to meet are specific to the color-coded spaces. For example, if it provides a single number, every side of a tile in that space must add up to the number provided. It is possible – and common – for only half a tile to be within a color-coded space.

Here are common examples you'll run into across the difficulty levels:

• Number: All the pips in this space must add up to the number.

• Equal: Every domino half in this space must be the same number of pips.

• Not Equal: Every domino half in this space must have a completely different number of pips.

• Less than: Every domino half in this space must add up to less than the number.

• Greater than: Every domino half in this space must add up to more than the number.

If an area does not have any color coding, it means there are no conditions on the portions of dominoes within those spaces.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for October 4, 2025 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Oct. 6 Pips

Number (7): Everything in this space must add to 7. The answer is 4-3, placed vertically.

Less Than (5): Everything in this space must be less than 5. The answer is 2-5, placed vertically; 1-6, placed horizontally.

Equal (5): Everything in this space must be equal to 5. The answer is 2-5, placed vertically; 5-5, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (9): Everything in this space must be greater than 9. The answer is 1-6, placed horizontally; 5-5, placed horizontally.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for Oct. 6 Pips

Number (10): Everything in this space must add to 10. The answer is 5-2, placed horizontally; 5-6, placed vertically.

Number (6): Everything in this space must add to 6. The answer is 5-6, placed vertically.

Equal (4): Everything in this space must be equal to 4. The answer is 4-4, placed vertically; 4-0, placed horizontally.

Number (3): Everything in this space must add to 3. The answer is 0-0, placed horizontally; 3-2, placed horizontally.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add to 2. The answer is 3-2, placed horizontally.

Number (11): Everything in this space must add to 11. The answer is 5-5, placed horizontally; 1-0, placed horizontally.

Number (0): Everything in this space must add to 0. The answer is 1-0, placed horizontally.

Hard difficulty hints, answers for Oct. 6 Pips

Number (6): Everything in this red space must add to 6. The answer is 6-2, placed horizontally.

Equal (6): Everything in this space must be equal to 6. The answer is 2-0, placed vertically.

Number (6): Everything in this green space must add to 6. The answer is 2-0, placed vertically; 6-5, placed horizontally; 0-6, placed vertically.

Equal (6): Everything in this space must be equal to 6. The answer is 0-6, placed vertically; 6-4, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (6): Everything in this space must be greater than 6. The answer is 1-5, placed vertically; 6-4, placed horizontally.

Number (6): Everything in this orange space must add to 6. The answer is 6-5, placed horizontally; 1-5, placed vertically.

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

SAVE OVER $300: As of Oct. 6, the Eufy Omni C20 robot vacuum and mop is on sale at Amazon for $379.99. This is 46% off its list price of $699.99, saving you $320, and marks its lowest-ever price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Eufy Eufy Omni C20 Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo $379.99 at Amazon
$699.99 Save $320 Get Deal

The Prime Big Deal Days sale event kicks off tomorrow, but you don't have to wait until then to enjoy some discounts. The retailer's been dropping a wide variety of early deals, including some stellar savings on robot vacuums. If you've been on the hunt for a model to bring home, this discount on the Eufy Omni C20 robot vacuum and mop is absolutely worth a look while it's still available.

The Eufy Omni C20 robot vacuum and mop usually comes with a price tag of $699.99, but shoppers can score it at a 46% discount right now, down to $379.99. This is its best price, so there's no better time to grab it, but you'll want to be quick. It's a very limited time deal with a countdown clock that runs through the rest of today, so don't miss out on this excellent early deal.

SEE ALSO: How to sign up for Amazon Prime ahead of Prime Big Deal Days

As the months get colder and you're spending more time inside, it's nice to have a little extra help with keeping the inside of your house clean, and the Eufy Omni C20 is a helpful little device to have around. It boasts 7,000 Pa suction, alongside a rolling brush and side brush, to pick up any dirt, hair, or debris that drops on your floor. And its Mop Master Technology offers 180 rotations per minute and 6N of pressure to tackle any stains it comes across.

On top of that, the Eufy Omni C20 is about 3.35-inches tall, so it can slide under smaller spaces (like a bed) to make sure every corner of your home feels fresh and clean. Again, this deal only lasts through the rest of today, so act fast to save on the Eufy Omni C20 robot vacuum and mop at Amazon.

Looking for even more deals like this one? Check out our breakdown of robot vacuum deals live ahead of October Prime Day to see what else is available right now.

I have some extremely happy and frustrating memories playing Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 back in the Wii era, but it always bugged me how far behind it looked when compared to it's peers. Yes, Wii is pretty much a Gamcube pro when it comes to raw power, but that wasn't the point. In fact, Wii prompted the motion control revolution that saw Xbox release Kinect and Sony release PlayStation Move, which says it all really.

Fast forward a couple of decades and we have brand-spanking new remasters of the Galaxy series on Nintendo Switch + Switch 2 via a 4K 60FPS upgrade, so is it worth getting? Or should you just hook up your old Wii? Let's get into it:

SEE ALSO: 20 already great Pokémon deals to catch ahead of October Prime Day

Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 is more of a visual upgrade than a comprehensive remaster like Metroid Prime Remastered, which isn't as bad as it sounds considering how brilliant these games still are. That doesn't mean their hasn't been some changes though, here's the cliff notes;

• High resolutions: 1080p on OG Switch, 4K 60FPS on Switch 2

• High resolution cutscenes: Unlike the AI upscaled cutscenes from Galaxy 1 in 3D All-Stars, they've been reworked for both games

• Assist Mode: Perfect for first-time younger players

• Gyro controls: RIP light bar and Wiimote, but it still works

Should you buy if you already have 3D All-Stars?

It depends on your preferences and setup. If you're not planning on playing Galaxy 1+2 on Switch 2, then it's not going to be much of an upgrade visually. You'd still be getting proper 1080p textures and re-rendered cutscenes, but if your happy with that AI smeared look and just want to play the game you've already got then more power to you.

There's some other small differences such as a user interface facelift for a 16:9 aspect ratio over 4:3, alongside a music player with over 150 tracks from across Galaxy 1 and 2. If you're hung up about buying the same game twice for the same console, Best Buy is currently selling digital code for Super Mario Galaxy 1 and Super Mario Galaxy 2 for $39.99 a piece, so picking up Galaxy 2 separately would save $29.99.

If you have a Switch 2, for me the visual upgrades are worth it. These games absolutely pop on a 4K 60FPS screen, and it's a difference that I felt more than saw. It beats the straight ports of Super Mario 3D All-Stars by lightyears in my opinion. Plus the Switch 2 upgrade is free, as this is technically an OG Nintendo Switch release.

Is this the best way to play Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 right now?

Simple answer? Yes 100%, but there's a couple of caveats with that answer in my opinion. First off, it's $69.99 for two legacy Nintendo Wii games, which is crazy even given the visual improvements. Thinking about the value for money gameplay wise, yes of course it's worth it, but it's annoying that both Galaxy titles were in the $20 Nintendo Selects lineup for Wii roughly 12 months after they originally released. The Nintendo tax is real in 2025.

The only other slight issue I had with Galaxy 1+2 was the motion controls, which is more of a personal nitpick. The Wiimote and light bar combo was ridiculously accurate by the time motion plus came around, and it's something a gyroscope can't replicate. Don't get me wrong, it comes very close, but fans of the original releases will notice motion controls in this outing to feel a little floaty and less accurate.

To put this into perspective, I've been playing with a PowerA Pikachu and Gengar wireless controller and Switch 2 Joy-Con in TV mode and handheld, and using the gyro motion controls whilst playing with a standard controller layout feels alright. The sensitivity is quite high, so I wasn't worried about throwing my controller or console flying out of my hand, just simple tilts.

Which amiibo can I use?

Well if you haven't heard, Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 are getting two new amiibo, but they're not releasing until April 2, 2026. Yeah, I found it strange too, but perhaps they'll mark extra content for the games or have some kind of tie-in with the recently announced Super Mario Galaxy animated film, who knows?

Scanning the Mario & Luma amiibo (preorder for $39.99 at Best Buy) gives players instant extra life, whilst the Rosalina and Lumas amiibo (Again, $39.99 at Best Buy) gives Mario a 1-Up Mushroom. All other amiibo usually result in star bits and coins, so nothing major there, but will come in handy when feeding stars for hidden bonus levels etc.

Is Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 worth buying?

It's subjective at the end of the day. If you want two amazing Mario platformers that turn the 3D Mario formula on its head and value for money from a gameplay standpoint? Yes. If you've already got Super Mario 3D All-Stars but want to play a 4K 60FPS version of Galaxy 2? Maybe just buy Super Mario Galaxy 2 on it's own. If you're looking for a full-on remake with tons of extra bonus content and still have the original game on Wii with zero preference on graphical fidelity? I'd probably give this one a miss.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / Nintendo Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 (Nintendo Switch 1/2) physical edition $69.99 at Best Buy
Shop Now

• Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 (Switch 1/2 Digital Code): $69.99

• Super Mario Galaxy 1 (Switch 1/2 Digital Code): $39.99

• Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Switch 1/2 Digital Code): $39.99

• Mario and Luma amiibo (Preorder: Releases April 2nd, 2026): $39.99

• Rosalina and Lumas amiibo (Preorder: Releases April 2nd, 2026): $39.99

• Rosalina's Storybook (Preorder: Releases Nov. 25): $24.99

Yes, it's a big ask paying $70 for two Wii games, but they've had just enough upgrades to make this purchase feel worth it. It's a great introduction to both games ahead of the Super Mario Galaxy film, and no-doubt the latest Ninty fans will love Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 with the new assist mode.

TL;DR: Scan on the go forever with this lifetime subscription to iScanner App, now just $24.99 (reg. $199.90) with code SCAN through November 2.

Sick of random stacks of paper cluttering up your space? Digitize your important documents with some help from the iScanner App.

This cool tool transforms your iPhone or iPad into a scanner, and right now you can get a lifetime subscription to this handy app for just $24.99 (reg. $199.90) with code SCAN through November 2.

Digitize documents from anywhere with iScanner

Whether you’re tidying up your desk or digitizing precious memories like handwritten notes, there’s no more convenient way to scan your documents than iScanner. This app puts the power of a scanning device in the palm of your hand, and it’s compatible with your iPhone or iPad, so you can scan from anywhere.

Just point your device’s camera at the page, and iScanner’s AI-powered features accurately detect and adjust the borders of your document. You’ll be left with a clean, sharp scan without any curves or skews. There are also editing tools to improve your scan if needed.

Once you’ve scanned pages, iScanner doubles as a document manager, allowing you to organize your files with easy drag-and-drop functionality. The app can also solve math problems and decipher text in up to 20 languages, thanks to the AI capabilities.

iScanner eliminates the need for a PDF editor, offering a convenient way to edit PDFs within the app. Sign, add text, and auto-fill documents with custom templates, or mark up documents with covers or blurred text if you are trying to obscure information. Dealing with confidential info? You can also lock folders and files with a PIN.

Make scanning easy with a lifetime subscription to iScanner App, now for only $24.99 (reg. $199.90) with code SCAN through November 2.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: iScanner iScanner App: Lifetime Subscription $24.99
$199.90 Save $174.91 Get Deal

TL;DR: BitMar is a powerful content-finding platform that gives you access to millions of free movies, shows, channels, and songs from across the web — all for a one-time payment of $19.99.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the number of streaming services — or tired of hopping between apps trying to find something to watch — BitMar might be your new favorite hack.

For a one-time price of $19.99, this streaming content-finder gives you lifetime access to a clean, centralized hub where you can discover and stream millions of free movies, TV shows, channels, videos, and songs from across the web.

BitMar doesn’t host content itself. Instead, it uses the same AI technology behind Bing Search, plus its own smart algorithms, to filter and organize free streaming content from countless sources worldwide. Think of it as a super-powered search engine just for entertainment — legal, sustainable, and ridiculously easy to use.

What makes BitMar shine is the sheer scale:

• Millions of free movies and TV shows (more than most major services combined)

• 200,000+ free on-demand channels, local and global

• Billions of videos with fewer ads than watching on YouTube directly

• Millions of songs and mixes on demand

• Access from anywhere on your favorite devices

No ongoing subscription fees. No monthly bills. Just smarter streaming.

Get lifetime access to BitMar while it’s just $19.99 (MSRP $150) for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: BitMar BitMar Streaming Content-Finder: Lifetime Subscription $19.99
$150 Save $130.01 Get Deal

TL;DR: Turn hours of spreadsheet drudgery, document drafting, and presentation building into minutes with AiAssistWorks — lifetime access is just $39.99 with code AI20.

If you spend your days buried in spreadsheets, churning out documents, or building decks, you know how quickly repetitive tasks eat away at your time.

AiAssistWorks Plus Plan is a lifetime solution that brings over 100 top AI models (GPT, Claude, Gemini, Llama, Grok, and more) directly into Google Sheets, Docs, and Slides.

This tool transforms how you work. In Google Sheets, simply describe what you want in plain language and let AI fill thousands of cells, generate formulas, create pivot tables, or even analyze image data — all without touching a single line of code.

In Docs, you can generate, rewrite, translate, summarize, and insert AI-created images without leaving your document. And in Slides, you can auto-generate entire presentations and build visuals in seconds.

Why AiAssistWorks is useful

• Natural language commands — no formulas or scripting

• Bulk filling for thousands of spreadsheet rows

• 100+ top AI models at your fingertips

• Smart content generation and editing for Docs

• Auto-built presentations and graphics for Slides

• Bring your own API key for transparent, pay-as-you-go usage

• One-time payment for lifetime access

Whether you’re a marketer, analyst, SEO pro, student, or anyone who lives in Sheets and Docs, AiAssistWorks is your AI productivity powerhouse helper.

Get lifetime access to the AiAssistWorks Plus Plan while it’s just $39.99 (MSRP $480) with code AI20.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: AiAssistWorks AiAssistWorks Plus Plan: Lifetime Subscription $39.99
$480 Save $440.01 Get Deal

Considering the subject matter, A Private Life shouldn't be as funny as it is. But in Jodie Foster's hands, it's a darkly comedic triumph.

Foster, who speaks fluent French and has acted in a number of French films like A Very Long Engagement and Moi, fleur bleue, is nothing short of formidable in A Private Life (Vie privée). Directed and co-written by Rebecca Zlotowski (Other People's Children), this witty thriller sees Foster as an American psychiatrist in Paris turned amateur sleuth as she investigates the sudden death of a patient. It's not a set-up that screams comedy, but the film truly pulls it off, with the Hollywood icon delivering dry humor and straight-laced drama with characteristic finesse alongside lauded French actors Mathieu Amalric and Daniel Auteuil.

SEE ALSO: 'Nouvelle Vague' review: Richard Linklater's tribute to Jean-Luc Godard and 'Breathless' is good vibes only

With the film's core mystery wrapped in golden-leafed Parisian streets, mid-century modernist furniture, and an almost exclusively auburn and navy costume palette, A Private Life is an autumnal delight that digs deep, gets surreal, and honestly cracked me up.

Jodie Foster is impeccable at dry humour in A Private Life. My kingdom for a Jodie Foster eyeroll. Credit: Jérôme Prébois

Making a masterpiece of dry, offhand remarks and eye rolls, Foster delivers an inadvertently comedic performance as Lilian Steiner, the film's determined protagonist. A traditionalist down to her beloved MiniDisc recorder, Lillian is a psychiatrist firm in her ethical principles, which are tested when her patient, Paula Cohen-Solal (Benedetta star Virginie Efira), dies suddenly by suicide. Though she harbours feelings of closeness with Paula, cold reactions from resentful widow Simon (Amalric) and her reticent daughter Valerie (Luana Bajrami) make it clear Lillian isn't welcome at Paula's memorial events. But what exactly happened, and who is responsible?

Zlotowski co-wrote the film with Anne Berest and Gaëlle Macé, and Foster's ability to hit every comedic and dramatic note feels like a privilege to watch. In a rare French-speaking role as an American expat in Paris, Foster uses English sparingly, almost exclusively for cursing, to hilarious effect. Nobody says "what the f***" like Jodie Foster.

Featured Video For You 'The Thursday Murder Club's Helen Mirren reveals the word she hates to be called

A literal professional at processing emotion, Lillian's a deeply practical person, seeing crying as an inconvenient reason for an eye exam instead of the result of mourning. "I'm not crying, it's the eyes," she insists. Lillian can't quite shake the feeling that she didn't see Paula's death coming, refusing to doubt her own psychiatry skills or deep connection to her patient, and launching into her own private investigation, she suspects foul play. Plus, she knows someone is following her. Due to doctor-patient confidentiality, Lillian can't disclose any information to actual detectives to get them on the case, but she does find a fellow amateur sleuth in her charismatic ex-husband Gabriel (Auteuil), whose relationship with Lillian forms the film's unexpected true heart.

Through Foster and Auteuil's lived-in performance, their comfort and ease with each other and sense of history, Lillian and Gabriel's complex bond forms the foundation of the film, as they almost gleefully attempt to uncover Paula's secrets as exhilarated citizen detectives. Each step of the trail brings them closer together and to the truth, with Gabriel triumphantly shouting, "Drive!" like a heist character when he's picked up a clue, or Lillian suggesting a dubious stakeout.

A Private Life's core mystery is just a starting point. Jodie Foster and Virginie Efira in "A Private Life." Credit: Jérôme Prébois

Beyond the core mystery, Zlotowski peers further into Lillian’s psyche using unexpected moments of surrealism. Though she's skeptical of alternative medicine, Lillian gives hypnotherapy a whirl at a loose end, descending into a wondrous state of hypnosis mid-eye roll. What follows is a brief but beautiful sequence into a dream-like world, a realm of liquid glass tabletops, bright red staircases, and falling snow, where Lillian's supposed past life sits behind closed doors. These scenes, beautifully shot by cinematographer George Lechaptois, becomes crucial to Lillian understanding her relationships with Paula and the people in their lives, though her son Julien (Lost Illusions star Vincent Lacoste) struggles to understand it. But it's through Foster's sense of conviction and movement that sells what could have been a frivolous sequence, rendering it of the utmost importance to Lillian's sense of self.

Despite Efira's magnetic presence, the character of Paula feels intentionally lacking in depth, posthumously crafted through her taped conversations with Lillian and brief reflections from her husband and daughter. The result is that we really don't get to know Paula at all beyond her psychiatry sessions, mirroring Lillian's own limited knowledge of her patient, despite the intimate level of personal divulgence enabled by their dynamic. 

But there's one element of A Private Life that unashamedly steals the spotlight from the characters, demanding to be known: Paris itself.

A Private Life boasts a sublime Parisian aesthetic. Extremely Paris. Credit: Jérôme Prébois

Autumnal excellence is apparently the order of the day for production design in some of this year's best films (looking at you, The Mastermind), and A Private Life continues the trend. From Lillian's spiral-staircased appartement filled with leather Eames-style chairs, coffee-hued drapes, velvet cushions, and abstract art to the wood panelling and brass of Gabriel's favourite restaurant, the film breathes Parisian fall flair into every scene thanks to production designer Katia Wyszkop. It's all ceramic cups of coffee beside idling cigarettes, sprawling parquetry floors, wooden library filing cabinets, and chocolate woollen trench coats from costume designer Bénédicte Mouret. And like all good mysteries, the film is set during near constant drizzle, as Phoenix's Robin Coudert rolls out the optimal jazz score for the occasion. 

Despite the film's major question mark being steeped in a heavier subject matter, the aesthetic trimmings and charming performances keep each scene a balance of dark and light. As Lillian channels her misplaced guilt into sleuthing and finds old flames rekindled, Zlotowski's film becomes more than a simple whodunnit, but a surprising, comedic, and brilliantly performed exploration of relationships and the extent to which we let people in. It's a perpetual irony, Lillian acknowledges, "knowing people's secrets and not being able to act." But ultimately, act she does.

A Private Life was reviewed out of the BFI London Film Festival, where it is showing on Oct. 9 and 11. It is also showing at the New York Film Festival on Oct. 5, 6, and 12, and will hit cinemas Jan. 16, 2026.

If you're feeling suicidal or experiencing a mental health crisis, please talk to somebody. You can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can reach the Trans Lifeline by calling 877-565-8860 or the Trevor Project at 866-488-7386. Text "START" to Crisis Text Line at 741-741. Contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI, Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. ET, or email info@nami.org. If you don't like the phone, consider using the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Chat. Here is a list of international resources.

Today's Connections: Sports Edition will challenge your knowledge of a popular winter sport.

As we've shared in previous hints stories, this is a 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.

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

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.

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

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: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. 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: Stars

• Green: Regionally specific

• Blue: Beach volleyball needs

• Purple: ___ out

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: A team's best players

• Green: Atlanta teams

• Blue: Beach volleyball needs

• Purple: ___ out

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 #378 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• A team's best players - A-TEAM, FIRST STRING, REGULARS, STARTERS

• Atlanta teams - DREAM, FALCONS, HAWKS, YELLOW JACKETS

• Beach volleyball needs - BALL, NET, SAND, TWO TEAMS

• ____ out - FORCE, KNOCK, QUICK TAP

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new sports 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 today's Connections.

The difference between Prime Day and Black Friday — their roots, anyway — probably isn't a mystery to anyone who has dabbled in online shopping before.

Most of us know that Black Friday is the big sale frenzy that happens around Thanksgiving as a precursor to the holidays, and that almost every store you can think of participates. Alternatively, the name "Prime Day" suggests that the event is indeed an Amazon-specific event made up by Amazon for members of its Prime subscription service.

The lines between these two shopping holidays also aren't quite as blurred as they are between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which have become pretty indistinguishable from each other due to 1. being just a few days apart on the calendar, and 2. Black Friday relying just as heavily on online shopping as Cyber Monday does.

But back to the question at hand. Most people aren't concerned with these shopping holiday semantics. The people just want to know: Does Prime Day or Black Friday have better deals?

Does Amazon have better deals on Prime Day or Black Friday?

Amazon hypes Prime Day up so much that you can't help but assume those few days in July are its Olympics. The retail giant also hosts a 48-hour fall counterpart called "Prime Big Deal Days" in October, which really makes you wonder: It can't possibly have the bandwidth to turn around and do the same damn thing a month later for Black Friday, right?

Jeff Bezos is heard cackling in the distance.

Amazon price history shows us that, in many cases, Amazon does go as hard for Black Friday as it does for Prime Day. It's not uncommon to plug the Amazon URL for any popular item into the price-tracking site CamelCamelCamel and see a handful of very consistent dips to that item's all-time low pricing — those few instances being middle of July (Prime Day) and the end of November (Black Friday), plus a common third dip in October (Prime Big Deal Days).

SEE ALSO: Walmart vs. Amazon: Who actually has the best deals?

Amazon's Black Friday deals do tend to be a little more accessible than its Prime Day deals, since you don't have to be a paying Prime member to unlock them. (It's the same story for Walmart's anti-Prime Day and Black Friday sales, though being a paid Walmart+ member still has its perks, like getting early access to deals.)

In terms of what's on sale, there's a ton of overlap between Prime Day (including Prime Big Deal Days) and Black Friday deals. Robot vacuums, headphones, Apple devices, and kitchen gadgets are likely to get similar treatment for both, so if you find a stellar deal on one of those items, there's probably no need to hold out until the other event to see if the deal is better then.

A few categories are better to shop on Black Friday than Prime Day

A few categories do play favorites, though. For one, deals on TVs tend to be better on Black Friday. Aside from discounts on its own Fire TVs, Amazon doesn't go super hard on them at any time throughout the year. Best Buy has a much wider selection on its (virtual) shelves at any given point, specifically offering way more premium big-screen options than Amazon. Though Best Buy does hold competing sales during Prime Day, it tends to put on the bigger show during Black Friday.

We see better laptop deals on Black Friday for the same reason. Amazon's selection just isn't that great compared to its competitors, who typically reserve their best offers for the year-end holiday shopping season. It's not just because they know more shoppers are primed to shop at that point: According to Mashable's Haley Henschel, it's also because "manufacturers are trying to offload their inventories ahead of next-gen refreshes" at the start of the following year.

Finally, toy deals also tend to pop off more heavily for Black Friday in true nostalgic holiday prep. If you're looking to sign up for a streaming service for cheaper than usual, many of the big ones (Hulu and Peacock come to mind) are almost guaranteed to have a Black Friday sale, while they wouldn't exactly have any reason to participate in Prime Day.

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 SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Monday, Oct. 6, 2025:

AcrossWord announced before sharing a bit of trivia

• The answer is Fact.

Renewable energy option

• The answer is Solar.

Make a case (for)

• The answer is Argue.

Edible part of rhubarb

• The answer is Stalk.

Look for hiders

• The answer is Seek.

DownActor Will of "The Four Seasons" and "MacGruber"

• The answer is Forte.

Scummy stuff

• The answer is Algae.

Waterproof window sealant

• The answer is Caulk.

Arduous journey

• The answer is Trek.

"Don't ___ me!" ("Watch your attitude!")

• The answer is Sass.

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.

The full moon is tomorrow, but for now, we're still in the previous phase of the lunar cycle. The lunar cycle is the process of the moon's visibility. There are eight phases, and the whole cycle takes about 29.5 days, according to NASA.

Keep reading to find out what's happening tonight, October 6.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Monday, Oct. 6, the moon phase is Waxing Gibbous, and according to NASA's Daily Moon Observation, 99% of its surface is illuminated tonight.

So, what can you see tonight? With no visual aids (and a clear sky) you should be able to catch glimpses of the Copernicus Crater, the Mare Fecunditatis, and the Mare Tranquillitatis. With binoculars, you'll also see the Apennine Mountains, the Mare Nectaris, and the Gassendi Crater. If you have a telescope, you can also spot the Apollo 15 and 17 landing spots and the Fra Mauro Highlands.

When is the next full moon?

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

What are moon phases?

NASA explains that the moon goes through phases as it completes its 29.5-day orbit around Earth. The changing angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth cause the different phases we observe. From Earth, the moon can look full, partially lit, or even disappear entirely, but we always see the same side. What changes is the amount of sunlight reflected from its surface, depending on its position in orbit.

The eight main moon phases are as follows:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Separately.

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

ASIDE

Hurdle Word 2 hint

The sound a bird makes.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 4, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

TWEET

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Revealed.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 4, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

SHOWN

Hurdle Word 4 hint

An underground vault.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for August 4 Hurdle Word 4 answer

CRYPT

Final Hurdle hint

More mature.

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

OLDER

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

The third season of Netflix’s true crime anthology Monster dives into the life and crimes of serial killer and grave robber Ed Gein. The Wisconsin-born farmer gained national infamy in 1957 after police, investigating the disappearance of local store owner Bernice Worden, discovered her body — and the remains of nine others — inside his home. Many of those bodies had been exhumed and turned into grisly keepsakes, including lamps, bowls, and masks.

Gein ultimately confessed to one additional murder and was suspected in as many as seven others, including the deaths of his brother and a missing babysitter from a nearby town. Though never charged beyond the two murders, the horrifying details of his crimes turned him into a macabre household name. His story would go on to inspire some of horror’s most iconic villains: Norman Bates (Psycho), Leatherface (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre), and Buffalo Bill (The Silence of the Lambs). Gein was later convicted of first-degree murder but found legally insane, leading to his confinement to a series of mental institutions. He remained there for the rest of his life, passing away in 1984 at the age of 77 from lung cancer and respiratory failure.

Given America’s obsession with true crime, it was only a matter of time before Netflix — and producers Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan — turned their lens toward the man who inspired so many fictional monsters.

Released on Oct. 4, the new season has been met with largely unfavorable reviews. Critics have taken issue with its unfocused storytelling and what they describe as a grotesque, "pulpy and sloppy" portrayal of Gein’s crimes and personal life. The show also takes significant creative liberties, depicting graphic acts that Gein was accused of but never proven to have committed.

With Monster’s history of blurring fact and fiction in its dramatizations of real-life killers, the question remains: what’s true, and what’s invented, in the story of Ed Gein?

Who was Ed Gein? Ed Gein, 51, stands with his attorney William Belter at the Wabsara County Court. Credit: Bettmann Archive/Getty Images

Ed Gein was born in Plainfield, Wisconsin, in 1906, the youngest of two sons to George and Augusta Gein. According to Harold Schechter’s book Deviant, Augusta was a "devoutly — even fanatically — religious" woman who often preached to her sons about the evils of the world, particularly the corrupting influence of women. Schechter writes that Augusta viewed her husband as "feckless and worthless" and believed sex — indeed, the very act of it — was a “loathsome duty to be tolerated for the sake of procreation.” When she gave birth to Ed, her second child, and learned he was a boy, she reportedly "felt bitter and betrayed." Determined to protect her sons from temptation and sin, she devoted herself to raising them into what she considered "good" men—at least as good as men could be in her eyes.

Growing up, Ed idolized his mother. “In his eyes, she was no less infallible than God,” Schechter writes. Other accounts describe George Gein as a violent alcoholic who regularly beat his sons, while Augusta was also known to physically harm and humiliate Ed.

The only time Ed left the family’s isolated farm was to attend school. Augusta used their remoteness to her advantage, keeping outside influences away and punishing Ed whenever he tried to befriend other children.

George Gein died of heart failure in 1940 at the age of 66. Four years later, Ed’s brother Henry died at 43, also from what was ruled heart failure—though the circumstances around his death remain murky (more on that later). The following year, Augusta suffered a stroke, leaving Ed to care for her. According to The Milwaukee Sentinel Journal, about a year later, Augusta suffered a second, fatal stroke after flying into a rage upon seeing a neighbor with a woman who wasn’t his wife.

After his parents’ deaths, Ed stayed on the farm and supported himself with odd jobs around town. During this period, as described in Laurence Rickels’ The Psycho Records, he began reading pulp magazines and lurid adventure stories — many focused on cannibalism and Nazi war crimes, particularly crimes committed by Ilsa Koch.

It’s unclear how Gein first encountered these materials or his connection to Koch, though Monster suggests he was introduced to them by a woman named Adeleine Watkins — a detail that, like much of the show, shouldn’t be taken as fact.

Who is Adeline Watkins? Suzanna Son as Adeline Watkins. Credit: Netflix

In Netflix’s Monster, Suzanne Son portrays Adeline Watkins, Gein’s love interest and the woman who introduces him to the lurid pulp magazines that supposedly inspired his later crimes. In reality, though, Watkins appears to have been nothing more than a longtime friend and neighbor.

In a 1957 interview with the Minneapolis Tribune (now the Wisconsin State Journal), Watkins — then 50 years old — claimed she had dated Gein for about 20 years. She described how the two would often go to movies and taverns together and shared a fondness for reading. In that same interview, Watkins reportedly called Gein “good and kind and sweet,” adding that he had once proposed marriage, but she turned him down.

However, just two weeks after the story was published, Watkins walked back much of what she had said. She told reporters that the article had exaggerated both the nature and duration of their relationship. While she confirmed she’d known Gein for more than two decades, she clarified that they had only been romantically involved for about a year. According to Watkins, during that brief time they dated, Gein would occasionally stop by her home (she claims to have never been to his home) and they'd go to shows at the theater. Watkins also denied ever describing Gein — or her mother’s opinion of him — as “sweet.”

Did Gein kill his brother?

While Ed Gein ultimately confessed to only two murders — Mary Hogan in 1954 and Bernice Worden in 1957 — the gruesome discovery of flesh lamps, masks, and other human remains led authorities to suspect him in several unsolved cases in the area. Gein denied any further killings, and lie detector tests at the time cleared him of additional charges — though, as always, the reliability of polygraph results is questionable.

Netflix’s version of Gein, however, takes a different stance. The series implies he was also responsible for the deaths of local babysitter Evelyn Grace Hartley (portrayed by Addison Rae), a deer hunter named Victor Travis, and even his own brother.

As mentioned earlier, official records state that Gein’s brother, Henry, died at age 43 in 1944 from heart failure after going missing during a brush fire on the family farm. According to reports, Gein had been burning marshland when the flames spread out of control. After the fire was extinguished, he told firefighters that Henry was missing. They later found Henry lying face down, with no significant burns or visible injuries. Authorities ruled the death as heart failure, though many — including some investigators —found the circumstances suspicious.

Gein’s biographer, Schechter, later noted that Henry’s body was found with bruises on his head — an odd detail that didn’t align with the official story. Despite this, no autopsy was ever performed. The county coroner ultimately listed the cause of death as asphyxiation.

Adding to the mystery, although Gein told authorities his brother was missing, he led them straight to Henry’s body. While theories vary about what might have motivated him, most center on the brothers’ strained relationship over their mother. Henry reportedly wanted to leave the farm and move in with the woman he was dating — a plan that clashed with Gein's deep, almost fanatical devotion to Augusta.

SAVE 35%: As of Oct. 5, the Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects kit is on sale for $29.99 at Amazon — down from $45.99 for a limited time.

Opens in a new window Credit: Crest Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects – Teeth Whitening Kit $29.99 at Amazon
$45.99 Save $16.00 Get Deal

We’ve seen plenty of the best early Prime Day deals, even before the Big Deal Days event starting on Oct. 7 and 8, but this Crest 3D Whitestrips discount is one that literally shines.

In honor of Amazon Prime Day, the fan-favorite whitening kit is back down to $29.99, a 35% savings off its usual $45.99 price tag. For anyone who’s been eyeing an at-home smile refresh before holiday season selfies kick in, now’s the time to stock up.

The Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects kit comes with 22 treatments total (20 regular and two bonus 1-hour express treatments) and 44 strips overall. It’s designed to whiten like a $400 professional treatment, using the same hydrogen peroxide ingredient that dentists rely on, while staying gentle and enamel-safe.

SEE ALSO: Some of Amazon's early Prime Day Apple deals are already add-to-cart worthy

Thanks to Advanced Seal Technology, the strips grip securely to your teeth so you can still sip water or talk without worrying about them sliding off. That’s a small but meaningful win for multitaskers. 

Crest has also advised that you can achieve whitening results of up to 19 levels brighter, with a noticeably whiter smile after just a few uses. Altogether, you’re being promised a 100% visibly whiter smile, guaranteed.

Each treatment takes about 45 minutes, with the 1-Hour Express strips offering faster touch-ups when you need a last-minute glow-up. Whilst some customers on Amazon left reviews mentioning mild sensitivity, most agree it’s a small trade-off for how effective these strips are at erasing coffee, tea, and wine stains that have built up over time.

Crest is still the #1 dentist-recommended at-home whitening brand, and this kit has more than 98,000 five-star ratings on Amazon to prove it. Prime members can snag free delivery and lock in this limited-time price while it lasts.

In Taylor Swift's newest album, The Life of a Showgirl, she has an oft-debated new song, "CANCELLED!" The biggest argument about the song is who it's about (Blake Lively? Brittany Mahomes? Sophie Turner?). But one specific lyric has some wondering whether a viral TikTok meme apparently referenced in the song could earn a payout for the creator who coined it.

In the pre-chorus, Swift sings, "Did you girlboss too close to the sun? / Did they catch you having far too much fun?"

If that first line feels a bit familiar to you, it might be because of a viral 2021 TikTok in which influencer and comedian Caroline Timoney said: "Listen, I can’t give any more information, but I fear I may have girlbossed a bit too close to the sun." It currently has 7.5 million views, and Timoney told Mashable she "couldn't be more excited."

SEE ALSO: Taylor Swift's 'The Life of a Showgirl' is here, and the internet is divided

Timoney is "total Swiftie," so when her friends started texting her ahead of Swift's album release, saying her iconic turn of phrase was in one of the songs, she didn't really believe it.

"The next morning I woke up first to like 100 text messages on my phone," she said. "I'm from the East Coast, so most of my friends were already up. It was a really insane day... [She's] been my Spotify number one for the past five or so years. I went to the Eras Tour. I'm a huge Swiftie, so I was just so excited by it more than anything. Just truly so, so excited and really shocked."

Later that day, she posted a video to TikTok saying she "woke up this morning to discover that my TikTok audio that I made as a sophomore in college — 'I girlbossed too close to the sun' — was in a Taylor Swift song. Am I her Shakespeare? Yes. Do I see us as co-writers? As fellow songwriters? Yeah, all of it, all of the above. But I haven't changed. I've forgotten a few names of friends and family because I'm blowing up. These kinds of things happen. But I am genuinely so shocked."

While Timoney is not interested in taking legal action ("It's so public. I'm so proud of my little phrase that I wrote. And I do think I have some ownership over the fact that I came up with that. And I think it's cool, but I don't think I trademarked it or should or could trademark it."), many of the comments encourage her to "lawyer up" and "get that money."

However, one commenter pointed out that the line "girlboss too close to the sun" is a reference to Candace Owens, who said as much in a YouTube video from earlier this year about Swift's alleged involvement in Blake Lively’s lawsuit against Justin Baldoni. "But I came up with the phrase," Timoney wrote in a comment in response.

One copyright lawyer on TikTok, Rocky Retrograde, drew parallels between this and the situation between Lizzo and Mina Lioness, who tweeted "I did a DNA test and found out I'm 100% that bitch" before Lizzo released her album Truth Hurts. Lizzo ended up giving Lioness a writing credit on the song. Retrograde — along with many of Timoney's fans and commenters — recommended that Timoney reach out and try to do the same with Swift.

Timoney, for her part, just isn't interested in that.

"I feel like the phrase 'I girlbossed too close to the sun' became such a public phrase. I've had friends say it to me, who maybe first heard it from my TikTok audio or from a friend repeating the phrase to them, and they don't necessarily know that it's me," she said of its evolution. "It's cool to have contributed to the public lexicon."

SAVE $30: The JBL Flip 6 Bluetooth speaker (camo) is on sale at Amazon for $99.95, down from the list price of $129.95. That's a 23% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Clip 6 (camo) $99.95 at Amazon
$129.95 Save $30.00 Get Deal

We're just days away from Amazon's October Prime Day event, which spans Oct. 7 and 8 this year. But if you're ready to snag the deals already, Amazon is giving us non-procrastinators a little treat. The mega retailer already has excellent discounts on hundreds of products, and that includes one of Mashable's favorite portable speakers.

As of Oct. 5, the JBL Flip 6 Bluetooth speaker (camo) is on sale for $99.95 at Amazon, marked down from the list price of $129.95. That's a 23% discount that shaves $30 off the price.

A Halloween party requires a spooky soundtrack, and if you're in need of a portable speaker to pump the "Monster Mash," the JBL Flip 6 could be perfect. It gets up to 12 hours of playtime, and it's designed to be more powerful and louder than previous versions of the speaker. The two-way speaker system should be great at delivering powerful sound while coming in a super portable size.

SEE ALSO: Outdoor deals are hot ahead of October Prime Day from brands like Coleman, Yeti, Jackery, and plenty more

The JBL Flip 6 weighs about 1.2 pounds and is waterproof. That means it'll be perfect for trips to the pool come summer, and it's lightweight enough to be worthy of packing along on vacation. JBL used a durable fabric and rubber housing to make it extra safe to use outside.

Before potential shipping delays that tend to come along with Prime Day chaos, snag the JBL Flip 6 speaker while it's on sale for $30 off. Plus, Amazon is throwing in free access to Amazon Music for 90 days. Since that'll cover the holiday season, the speaker will be great for both Halloween and Christmas tunes.

If camo is not your thing, the Red and Teal versions of the JBL Flip 6 are also currently on sale at Amazon for $99.95 ahead of Prime Big Deal Days.

SAVE $200: As of Oct. 5, you can get the Insignia 65-inch QF Series QLED 4K Fire TV for just $299.99 at Amazon and Best Buy. That's $200 off its list price of $499.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Insignia Insignia 65-inch QF Series QLED 4K Fire TV $299.99 at Best Buy
$499.99 Save $200 Get Deal

Amazon Prime Big Deal Days is less than 48 hours away, but you really don't need to wait around to score the best TV deal.

As of Oct. 5, you can pick up the Insignia 65-inch QF Series QLED 4K Fire TV for only $299.99 — a $200 discount from its typical $499.99 list price. While Amazon and Best Buy are both offering this same deal, we recommend grabbing it from Best Buy since Insignia is a Best Buy brand. You'll likely receive it faster if that matters to you. For instance, Best Buy estimates an Oct. 9 delivery for me, while Amazon estimates a delivery between Oct. 10 and 21. Plus, should you run into any issues, reaching Best Buy's customer service will be much more streamlined. That being said, we're not the boss of you — pick whichever one you want. Either way, you'll be saving $200.

This same TV was the cheapest 65-inch option during July's flagship Prime Day sale at $329.99. Now, it's actually $30 cheaper ahead of October's Prime Day event. It's not a top-of-the-line model, but it's a great opportunity to upgrade to a QLED without breaking the bank. If you're used to an LED TV, you'll definitely be able to tell the difference the quantum dots make. Its picture quality and color vibrancy will pop, whether you're watching NFL matchups or the latest theatrical releases.

If you're in the market for a new TV on a budget, this is going to be a hard deal to beat, even once Prime Big Deal Days kicks off.

SAVE 30%: As of Oct. 5, Amazon's early Prime Day deals have a bargain on Anker’s MagSafe UFO 3-in-1 charger, now only $62.68 in a limited-time deal.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker MagSafe Compatible MagGo UFO 3-in-1 Charger $62.68 at Amazon
$89.99 Save $27.31 Get Deal

If there’s one thing worse than a dead phone, it’s juggling a nest of cables just to keep your devices alive. Fortunately, Amazon's early Prime Day Deals include a bargain on Anker’s latest MagSafe UFO 3-in-1 wireless charger to fix that; for today only, it’s 30% off in a limited-time lightning deal.

For a Prime Day bargain, this all-in-one charging station powers your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously. All that capability is kept within a single foldable pad that’s small enough to fit in your palm. Designed with frequent travellers and desk minimalists in mind, the MagGo UFO folds into a roughly golf ball-sized sphere that slides neatly into your backpack or carry-on. 

It even includes a 40W USB-C adapter and a five-foot cable, so you’re ready to plug in right out of the box.

SEE ALSO: Some of Amazon's early Prime Day Apple deals are already add-to-cart worthy

Performance-wise, this Qi2-certified charger delivers as well as looking futuristic. With 15W fast charging, you can boost your iPhone 15 Pro up to 20% in just 15 minutes, and your Apple Watch Series 9 up to 30% in under half an hour. Strong MagSafe alignment keeps your devices securely in place, while StandBy Mode support turns your phone into a smart display when docked in landscape view.

Weighing only 4 ounces and measuring under three inches across, the UFO charger also gets bonus points for build quality, something Anker fans have come to expect. Product reviews on Amazon praise its compact design, powerful magnets, and reliable charging, especially for travel setups and nightstands. Plus, for both the sleek Black Stone and Aurora White SKUs, each finish gives it that understated Apple-adjacent vibe that won’t clutter your workspace.

It’s not every day you can ditch three chargers for one that actually looks good doing it. This deal ends within just over 12 hours at the time of writing, or sooner if stock runs out. So, if you’ve been waiting for a smarter, lighter charging solution, now’s the time to grab it.

Saturday Night Live Season 51 started with a bang.

The first cold open of the season featured Colin Jost as the former Fox News anchor and current U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who is now called the Secretary of War. The skit was a take on Hegseth's decision to gather military officers in Virginia for a pretty unusual meeting last week.

"Earlier this week, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth had the brilliant idea to gather all of our nation's top generals in one place at one time. And to throw our enemies off the scent, he told them exactly where and when it would happen," an announcement said at the top of the cold open. "We take you to this meeting now."

Enter: Jost as Hegseth, walking in with an absurd bravado and rock music blaring on stage. "Cut the track," he said before going on to call the military "gay" and "fat" and encouraging all members to begin emulating President Donald Trump: "6'6", buck 75, A-cups, perky, with a dump truck in the back you wouldn't even believe."

Trump, played by James Austin Johnson, interrupted Hegseth's speech to make sure SNL doesn't "do anything too mean about me," referencing his role in Jimmy Kimmel Live's recent suspension.

"Remember: Daddy's watching," Johnson's Trump said. "And live from New York, it's Saturday night!"

The best early October Prime Day speaker deals at a glance: Best Anker Soundcore deal Anker Soundcore Boom 3i $99.99 (save $40) Get Deal Best Amazon speaker deal Amazon Echo Spot $44.99 (save $30) Get Deal Best JBL deal JBL Go 4 $39.95 (save $10) Get Deal Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $75.99 (Save $24) Get Deal

Whether your fall schedule consists of hosting parties, heading out on camping trips, or solo nights in, a quality speaker makes a great companion. Not to mention, they make excellent gifts — practically everyone listens to music, right? No matter the reason, if you're in the market for a Bluetooth speaker of any shape or size, Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days is a great time to score one for a sweet price.

The shopping event informally known as October Prime Day doesn't kick off until Oct. 7, but Amazon is dropping plenty of early deals. You can start your shopping early with speaker deals from brands like Sony, JBL, Anker Soundcore, and Amazon itself. However, if you're looking for more heavy hitters like Bose, Sonos, or Ultimate Ears, you'll have to hold off. These brands seem to be waiting until the actual event begins to lower their prices.

We'll be tracking the best speaker deals as we get closer to the Prime Big Deal Days kickoff and updating this page with the latest and greatest prices. Stay tuned.

Best early October Prime Day Bluetooth speaker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Ultimate Ears Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 $75.99
$99.99 Save $24 Get Deal Why we like it

The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 4 Bluetooth speaker brings big sound in a small, rugged shell, now also packing an early Prime Day price of $75.99 from $99.99. Don’t be fooled by its compact size; this portable speaker delivers impressively rich 360-degree audio with strong, punchy bass that fills outdoor spaces with ease, which is what earned this model a spot on our list of best Bluetooth speakers.

It’s built to handle just about anything: waterproof, dustproof, and even floatable, making it perfect for pool parties, hikes, or beach trips. With up to 14 hours of battery life and a 131-foot Bluetooth range, it’s designed for all-day listening wherever adventure takes you. Plus, it supports recycled materials and a minimalist aesthetic that looks as good as it sounds. Simply put, the Wonderboom 4 is the kind of speaker that proves small can be seriously mighty.

More speaker deals

• Anker Soundcore Select 4 Go — $24.99 $34.99 (save $10)

• Amazon Echo Pop — $24.99 $39.99 (save $15)

• Anker Soundcore 2 — $29.44 $44.99 (save $15.55)

• Amazon Echo Dot — $34.99 $49.99 (save $15)

• JBL Go 4 — $39.95 $49.95 (save $10)

• Sony SRS-XB100 — $48 $59.99 (save $11.99)

• Amazon Echo Spot — $44.99 $79.99 (save $35)

• Sony ULT Field 1 — $95.95 $129.99 (save $34.04)

• JBL Flip 6 — $99.95 $129.95 (save $30)

• Anker Soundcore Boom 3i — $99.99 $139.99 (save $40)

• Anker Soundcore Boom 2 — $119.99 $139.99 (save $20)

• Sony ULT Field 3 — $133 $199.99 (save $66.99)

• Marshall Acton III — $199.99 $299.99 (save $100)

• JBL FLIP 5 - $89.95 $99.95 (save $10)

• Beats Pill - $129 $149.95 (save $20.95)