Mashable

NASA just brought back from the dead a science mission to the moon involving a water-seeking rover that many believed was already being disassembled and scrapped for parts.

The U.S. space agency canceled the so-called VIPER rover, short for Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover, in July 2024, citing launch delays and cost overruns. VIPER, already $450 million into development, would drill for water ice at the moon's south pole. The findings would then be used to decide where astronauts would land in the future.

VIPER was originally supposed to reach the moon in 2023 on a lander built by Pittsburgh-based Astrobotic Technology, but NASA believed the commercial spacecraft needed more time for testing. That, coupled with other schedule and supply chain issues, meant putting more time and money into a beleaguered mission that could jeopardize other lunar plans.

Now, without much fanfare, NASA has restored the mission, choosing billionaire Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin to deliver the rover to the lunar south pole in late 2027. The mission is part of the Artemis program, which aims to create a long-lasting human presence on the moon in preparation for potential future missions to Mars. 

"The selection of Blue Origin to deliver VIPER is a victory for science, lunar exploration, and U.S. leadership in space," said Grant Henriksen of the National Space Society, which released a position paper last year advocating for a solution to save the mission. "It demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships to overcome challenges and keep critical missions alive."

SEE ALSO: Webb captured this stunning nursery of baby stars. It's massive.

For the VIPER mission, Blue Origin will design, test, and operate the lander, which will carry the rover to the moon. Once the vehicle is on the surface, NASA will run it for an anticipated 100 days. 

Blue Origin has already built a robotic lander to go to the moon for a different mission as early as this year. Under a new NASA task order, the Kent, Washington-based company would manufacture another lander to deliver the rover for up to $190 million. The duplicate spacecraft is already in production, according to NASA. 

Blue Origin’s Blue Moon Mark 1 lander will attempt to deliver NASA's VIPER rover on the moon in late 2027. Credit: Blue Origin illustration

Blue Origin is one of many vendors in NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services initiative. The program has recruited the private sector to help deliver cargo, conduct experiments, and demonstrate new technology, as well as send back crucial data to support Artemis. Through these contracts, NASA wants to see a regular cadence of moon missions to prepare for astronauts' return to the moon in 2027 or later.

Several nations and companies have set their sights on the moon's south pole because of its natural ice. The resource, thought to be buried in permanently shadowed craters, is coveted because it could supply drinking water, oxygen, and rocket fuel for future space voyages. Not only is their economic interest in the off-planet ice, but having access to lunar water would make it more feasible for astronauts to live on the moon for longer durations. 

The mission's sudden return followed objections from space advocacy groups, which applied pressure on Congress. Lawmakers then requested that private companies step in to help save the rover. 

Water is scarce in deep space, so scientists have long wondered whether the moon's tiny bit could be tapped, Matt Siegler, senior scientist for the Planetary Science Institute, told Mashable in 2022. 

Water was directly detected on the moon for the first time with the instruments on China's Chang'E-5 robotic lander in December 2020. That data suggested there may be more water on the moon than even previously suspected, Siegler said. 

"I'm sure there are a lot of American scientists who are jealous that we didn't have the lander on the moon to do this measurement," said Siegler, who is a part of NASA’s VIPER team.

Engineers lift the mast atop the VIPER moon rover in a clean room at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston. Credit: NASA / Helen Arase Vargas

Under President Donald Trump's administration, discussions of a new space race between the United States and China have intensified, with many concerned China's military-run program could send astronauts to the moon — and perhaps even onward to Mars — before NASA. China wants to land people at the moon's south pole in 2030. Former NASA administrator Bill Nelson feared China might hoard the resources without sharing.

That's at least one matter on which the new acting administrator under Trump's Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy agrees. At a ceremony to announce the new 2025 astronaut class in Houston last week, he made those feelings clear. 

"Some are challenging our leadership in space — say, like the Chinese, and I'll just tell you this, I'll be damned if the Chinese beat NASA or beat America back to the moon," Duffy said. "We love challenges. We love competition, and we are going to win."

TL;DR: Keep a scanner on hand at all times with this lifetime subscription to iScanner App, now only $24.99 (reg. $199.90) with code SCAN through Oct. 12.

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

It’s surprising how often we find ourselves in need of a scanner in the year 2025. If you want to keep one available at all times, the iScanner App can help. This handy tool turns your iPhone or iPad into a scanning machine, and you can currently secure a lifetime subscription for just $24.99 (reg. $199.90) with code SCAN until Oct. 12.

Gone are the days of those clunky printer-scanner hybrids. Now you can enjoy the power of a scanner in the palm of your hand with some help from the iScanner App. You can download this game-changing scanning and document management tool right to your iPhone or iPad and start scanning and storing important documents in just a few taps.

SEE ALSO: Apple claims MagSafe stands are responsible for iPhone 17 'Scratchgate'

Take advantage of iScanner’s AI-powered features that leave you with clean, crisp scans. The app ensures the borders of your document are accurately detected and automatically adjusted, while also straightening pages and eliminating curves and skews.

iScanner isn’t just a convenient way to scan — it’s also a document manager that allows you to organize your files with ease using drag-and-drop functionality. It also includes a PDF editor, allowing you to sign, add text, or auto-fill documents with custom templates when scanning something you need to work with.

There are some other perks to iScanner, too. If you need help with a complicated math problem or need to translate a language, the app’s AI capabilities can solve math problems and decipher text in up to 20 languages.

Scan right from your iPhone with this lifetime subscription to iScanner App, now just $24.99 (reg. $199.90) with code SCAN through Oct. 12.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: This tracking device fits where an AirTag can’t, and now you can get a four-pack of KeySmart SmartCard Lites for slim spaces for just $64.99 (reg. $99.96).

Opens in a new window Credit: KeySmart KeySmart SmartCard Lite | Works With Apple Find My | 2-Year Battery (4-Pack) $64.99
$99.96 Save $34.97 Get Deal

Looking for a way to keep track of your most valuable items? From wallets to passports and IDs, the KeySmart SmartCard Lite is designed to make tracking your slim items easy. This convenient device pairs with Apple’s Find My app for quick tracking, and right now you can score a four-pack for just $64.99 (reg. $99.96) — less than $17 each.

Let the KeySmart SmartCard Lite help you save time and gain some peace of mind. This sleek tracker is slimmer than the size of two credit cards, measuring less than 2mm thick, so it easily slips into wallets and other small spaces without adding any bulk. And it pairs with Apple’s Find My app, so you can instantly spot it on a map, play a sound to find it, or receive an instant alert if you accidentally leave your item behind.

SEE ALSO: The Apple AirTag 4-pack is back on sale at Amazon — save over $20 right now

With a KeySmart SmartCard Lite, losing your wallet doesn’t have to be a disaster. Just activate Lost Mode, then anyone who finds it will see your contact info and be able to return it to you. It also works great with IDs and even has a lanyard slot to keep it close to badges.

An IPX8 waterproof rating means it can survive up to one hour in 3.3 feet of water, so you won’t need to worry about the elements or any spills or accidents. An impressive two-year battery life also means you don’t have to charge it.

Keep track of your essentials with this four-pack of KeySmart SmartCard Lites for slim spaces for just $64.99 (reg. $99.96).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

SAVE $60: As of Sept. 29, the INSIGNIA 32" Class F20 is on sale for $69.97. That's a 46% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: INSIGNIA INSIGNIA 32" Class F20 $69.97 at Amazon
$129.99 Save $60.02 Get Deal

TVs can range from budget-friendly to eye-wateringly expensive, but the good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune to snag a great one. And with Prime Day just a week away, we’ve found a deal for under $70 - perfect timing for Fall movie marathons.

As of Sept. 29, the INSIGNIA 32" Class F20 smart TV is reduced to just $69.97. That's a $60 savings, and according to Camelcamelcamel, it has never been cheaper than this. The TV has the Fire OS built in, so you can expect all the perks of a high-end Amazon TV without the price tag. Enjoy easy access to all the major streaming apps, as well as built-in Alexa for easy searching.

For the TV itself, it has a 720p resolution, DTS Virtual-X Sound, and supports HDMI ARC. It can be wall-mounted, too, so you can place it wherever you want in your home. Connection-wise, you're not scrimping either; this TV is compatible with most home theater components, including Blu-ray players, game consoles, speakers, and more.

For under $70, you really can't go wrong. Get this great TV deal from the Amazon website now.

SAVE $90: As of Sept. 29, the Amazon Fire Max 11 is on sale for $139.99 at Amazon. That's a 39% savings on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire Max 11 $139.99 at Amazon
$229.99 Save $90 Get Deal

The Amazon Fire Max 11 is back on sale at Amazon, and this time it's got a seriously impressive discount. With Prime Day just over a week away, this is the perfect excuse for a tablet upgrade.

As of Sept. 29, this tablet is reduced to just $139.99. That's a savings of $90, and it's the lowest price it's been so far this year. This deal is for the 64GB option without lockscreen ads.

If you're looking for peak Amazon performance, you won't go wrong with this tablet. One of the best made by the retailer, the Fire Max 11 is the best of the best when it comes to Fire devices. Everything is made to the highest quality, including the 11-inch screen with 2.4 million pixels, so that everything you do and watch is displayed in amazing quality.

The performance is worth shouting about, too, and you can wave laggy, slow loading goodbye. This is thanks to the powerful octa-core processor, 4 GB of memory, and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity.

And despite all these high-end features, you're still promised up to 14 hours of battery life. Whether you're streaming, watching TikToks, or catching up on work, you're set all day.

Get this great tablet deal from Amazon while it's on sale.

SAVE $35: As of Sept. 29, the Echo Show 5 is on sale for $54.99 at Amazon. That's a 39% savings on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Show 5 $54.99 at Amazon
$89.99 Save $35.00 Get Deal

October's Prime Day is just over a week away, but we're already being treated to some great early deals. Like this latest discount on the Echo Show 5, currently $35 off at Amazon.

As of Sept. 29, you'll find it priced down to just $54.99. This isn't just a great new price; it's also the lowest price it has been all year.

So, what exactly does the Echo Show 5 do? This handy device is the hub for all your Amazon smart home products. It has a 5.5-inch touch screen for easy control and easy reading. Think looking up recipes, reading the news, or even scrolling through your Spotify playlists, because it's compatible with music streaming apps (not a Spotify person? No problem, Amazon Music works too).

You can even stream Netflix and voice call friends and family from this device, so it does so much more than you'd expect from a smart home hub. The camera can also be used to check in on your home when you're out, speak to family or check if your pets are behaving.

For this deal, you can choose between the charcoal, glacier white, and cloud blue color options. Get it from the Amazon website now.

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, Sept. 29, 2025:

AcrossWalgreens competitor

• The answer is CVS.

What sprinklers might sprinkle

• The answer is Lawn.

Assumed name

• The answer is Alias.

Company whose round, red-white-and-blue logo is known as the "globe"

• The answer is Pepsi.

Emanation from a hot shower

• The answer is Steam.

DownExpresses appreciation for a performance, say

• The answer is Claps.

Kind of parking

• The answer is Valet.

Express appreciation for a dating profile, say

• The answer is Swipe.

Org. whose round, red-white-and-blue logo is known as the "meatball"

• The answer is NASA.

Virtual thing to "run," for short

• The answer is Sim.

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 today's Mini Crossword.

Fortnite has disabled a Peacemaker dance emote after the series' latest episode aired on Thursday. Though the Peaceful Hips emote's goofy choreography seems innocuous at first glance, Peacemaker's revelation this week adds new meaning to the moves, apparently prompting Epic Games to rethink the collaboration.

"We're disabling the Peaceful Hips Emote in Fortnite as we inquire into our partner's creative intentions in this collab emote," the official Fortnite status X account announced over the weekend. "Assuming it's not coming back, we'll issue refunds in the next few days. Sorry folks."

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

It seems that the Peaceful Hips Fortnite dance may contain deliberate allusions to highly offensive symbols, which went undetected until Peacemaker's new episode made them much clearer.

Beware, spoilers for Peacemaker follow.

The sixth episode in Peacemaker's second season, "Ignorance is Chris" continued to follow the titular vigilante (John Cena) as he attempted to abandon his dimension to build a new life in an alternate one. However, toward the end of the episode, it was revealed that Nazi Germany won World War II in this world, resulting in a universe led by white supremacists. 

Though this twist was kept heavily under wraps, Peacemaker did hint at it in earlier episodes. Most significantly, the show hinted at it via the dance Peacemaker performs during the second season's opening credits. In it, the vigilante bends both arms at right angles in a move which, in light of last week's revelations, now appears to be a deliberate allusion to the Nazi swastika.

"Season 2, there's a lot more of the story of the season in the intro [dance]," Peacemaker choreographer Charissa Barton said in August.

Fortnite's Peaceful Hips emote was based on this dance, replicating the same bent-arm movement. 

The dance move could be seen as a clever, sneaky hint for Peacemaker viewers in context. Unfortunately, it takes on a markedly different tone when transformed into a Fortnite dance that players can make their characters perform in the competitive first-person shooter. Many young players also learn these dances and replicate them in real life.

Credit: HBO Max/Epic Games/Mashable composite

Added to the game earlier this month, Fortnite's Peaceful Hips emote was available for purchase in the Item Shop either by itself or as part of the Peacemaker Bundle. As of writing, all Peacemaker items appear to have been removed from the shop, however all except the Peaceful Hips emote can still be used by players who already own them.

It's a new lunar phase tonight, First Quarter, which means we're seeing around half of the moon tonight.

The moon goes through a cycle of eight distinct phases, known as the lunar phases. NASA explains that these phases occur as the Sun illuminates varying portions of the moon while it moves around our planet.

Keep reading to see what you can see when you look up tonight, Sept. 29.

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Monday, Sept. 29, the moon phase is First Quarter, and according to NASA's Daily Moon Observation, 46% of its surface is illuminated tonight.

With no visual aids tonight, you'll be able to see plenty on the moon's surface, including: the Mare Crisium, Mare Tranquillitatis, and the Mare Vaporum. If you've got a pair of binoculars, you'll get great views of some of the moon's mountains, the Apennine and Alps mountain ranges. Finally, with a telescope, you'll also be able to see the Apollo 17 and 16 landing spots and the Caucasus Mountains.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will be on Oct. 6. The last full moon was on Sept. 7.

What are moon phases?

According to NASA, the moon’s phases are part of its 29.5-day orbit around Earth. As the moon moves, the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth shift, creating the changing phases we see. From our perspective, the moon sometimes appears full, sometimes seems to vanish completely, but we always see the same side. What changes is how much sunlight is reflecting off its surface, depending on its position in orbit.

This is how we get full moons, half moons, and moons that appear completely invisible. There are eight main moon phases, and they follow a repeating cycle:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Long gone are the days of lying to the dentist about whether you floss regularly or not (and take it from us, they always know when you're lying). Because flossing has had an upgrade in recent years. Indeed, you can put that little box of minty floss aside for a moment. These days, it's all about the power of water flossing.

For those who don't know, the water flosser — or oral irrigator to use the dentist-approved technical term — has been having a TikTok moment. For once, it's a TikTok trend that's actually good for you. It will also keep the dental hygienist off your case.

Look, we know the struggle. You're not alone. Flossing can be a hassle, but it is an essential part of maintaining a healthy mouth. So, where to start with water flossers? Keep reading for some helpful information and a round-up of the best water flosser models available. These will keep your smile sparkly white and refreshingly hygienic.

Do you actually need to floss?

It's no secret that good dental hygiene involves more than just brushing. Sure, brushing is an important part of the process and helps remove plaque and prevent cavities, but you need to do more to keep your teeth healthy and prevent gum disease. Flossing gets in between your teeth and helps lift and remove plaque. In other words, it reaches the places your electric toothbrush can't. And if you don't clean these areas, you're asking for plaque buildup and gum disease.

How do water flossers work?

Water flossers shoot a stream of water into your mouth to remove food particles and plaque build-up. They get into the periodontal pockets — the gaps between teeth and gums — which prevents gum disease. Another advantage is convenience. There's no fumbling around with slippery floss. They're also great for anyone who wears braces. But can you get away with only using a water flosser? The experts at Oral-B state that it's "not recommended to replace traditional flossing with water flossing." Instead, you should incorporate both traditional and water flossing into your daily routine.

How do you use a water flosser?

Water flossers are easy to use, but we'll still break the process down so there are no doubt. We're kinda nice like that. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Add water — OK, this might seem obvious, but you'll need water to use your water flosser. Simply fill the reservoir with lukewarm water. Reservoir capacities vary model to model.

2. Aim — Don't start your water flosser without first placing the nozzle firmly in your mouth. We wouldn't want you to spray water all over your bathroom. Aim the device away from your target area rather than directly against your teeth and gums.

3. Find your perfect pressure setting — At this point you can play around with the water pressure. The pressure should be high enough to actually get the job done, but always start with the lowest pressure setting and work up. Water flossers tend to have a selection of pressure levels.

4. Direction — Work your way around your mouth, targeting one tooth at a time. Direct the water at your gum line and at the areas between your teeth. There's no golden rule for how long on each tooth, but two seconds is more than enough. Most flossers come with a selection of jet tips that each have their own specific cleaning function.

5. Remove water — We've come full circle, and at this point you just need to turn off the device, remove the nozzle, and drain the remaining water from the reservoir. Don't skip this step — leaving water in your reservoir can result in bacterial growth.

6. Cleaning — This whole process is about improving your oral hygiene, so it would kind of defeat the point to not clean your water flosser’s reservoir after every session.

What is the best water flosser?

We've covered the benefits of flossing, whether water flossers work, and how to use a water flosser, and now there is only one thing left to cover. There are plenty of water flossers on offer from top personal care brands, but which model is the best?

We have checked out everything out there from top brands like Oral-B, Panasonic, and Waterpik, and highlighted a selection of your best options. There should be something for everyone and every budget in this list — for experienced and newbie flossers.

These are the best water flossers in 2025.

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

Take it from us: No home cinema is complete without a soundbar. Even the most premium smart TVs lose something in the sound. Their speakers never quite match the visuals. That’s because those speakers are usually built into the back or bottom of the TV, which doesn't equate to quality sound. Even with TV manufacturers thinking up new ways to sex-up the sound — such as audio that seems to be comes directly from the action onscreen — smart TVs are meant to be paired with a good soundbar.

A soundbar will be the foundation of a great sounding home cinema, with the option to add a subwoofer (sometimes included) or additional speakers. In this kind of setup, the TV itself becomes just one component in a whole system of cinematic-quality speakers.

But how do you choose a soundbar? There are so many models available. It’s hard to pick apart all the jargon and specifications — especially if you’re a soundbar novice. But listen up, because we’ve done some important research to help you decide. Here's some useful information and a round-up of the best soundbars you can buy right now.

What is a soundbar?

Instead of a bunch of speakers dotted around the room or a chunky amplifier, a soundbar sits under your TV. You can also mount them on the wall, if that’s how you've for your smart TV set-up. Designed specifically for TVs, with a wider build for improved acoustics, soundbars offer a superior quality over built-in speakers — a crisper, more nuanced sound with resonating bass and clearer dialogue.

Do soundbars provide surround sound?

Soundbars can absolutely be integrated into a surround sound setup. Surround sound puts you in the centre of the action by having speakers literally surrounding you, or dotted around the room, so the sound comes from all directions. Soundbars can be linked (often wirelessly) and you’ll find that some brands make it especially easy to connect with other speakers within their range. However, as you’ll read below, you may not need to connect your soundbar with other speakers for surround sound.

What is HDMI ARC and eARC?

These are terms you'll see a lot when shopping for decent audio-visual tech. ARC stands for Audio Return Channel. It's essentially an HDMI technology that allows you to connect your TV to a speaker via a single HDMI cable without needing multiple optical cables. Meanwhile, eARC—or Enhanced Audio Return Channel—is a souped up version that utilises the more advanced HDMI 2.1 technology. In basic terms, it gives you a bigger, faster bandwidth for even higher quality. This is particularly good for audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, or next gen gaming.

What is Dolby Atmos?

This is a fantastic innovation in surround sound technology, derived from cinemas. Any TV, speaker, or soundbar that’s equipped with Dolby Atmos is essentially a premium bit of kit. Dolby Atmos bounces sound off the walls to create a 3D soundstage and truly immersive experience. Atmos-equipped soundbars have speakers that fire upwards and bounce sound off the ceiling. Dolby Atmos soundbars essentially create a cinema-like experience without the need for multiple speakers.

What does pass-through mean?

While most people tend to plug all their devices (gaming console, Blu-ray player etc) into the TV then run audio from the TV to the soundbar, pass-through allows you to plug these devices directly into the soundbar and run an HDMI out from the soundbar and to the TV. This passes the video signal through the speaker to the TV while giving you uncompressed audio. In other words, the best sound possible. But not every soundbar is equipped with pass-through. It's usually reserved for premium models.

Do soundbars have a voice assistant?

Many soundbars have Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can ask them to adjust the sound or even change the channel. Some soundbars will also connect to music streaming apps or double up as a hub for your smart home.

How much does a soundbar cost?

You can spend around £200 for basic soundbars, or go into the thousands. It all depends on the kind of tech and quality of sound you want. This roundup includes options for most budgets, so there's definitely something for you here.

What is the best soundbar?

You need to ask yourself several questions before making a decision — questions about audio quality, smart features, connectivity, and price. Whatever features suit you and your watching habits best, there's a good option listed below.

These are the best soundbars in 2025.

Today's Connections: Sports Edition requires some knowledge on NASCAR and football.

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: Numbers for a football score

• Green: Greek Freak

• Blue: Places in the southeast

• Purple: Racecar drivers

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: Points That Can Be Scored on One Football Play

• Green: Associated with Giannis Antetokounmpo

• Blue: SEC Cities

• Purple: NASCAR Cup Series Champions, Familiarly

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 #371 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• Points That Can Be Scored on One Football Play - 1, 2, 3, 6

• Associated with Giannis Antetokounmpo - 34, BUCKS, GREECE, MVP

• SEC Cities - ATHENS, FAYETTEVILLE, NORMAN, OXFORD

• NASCAR Cup Series Champions, Familiarly - CALE, DALE, JEFF, JIMMIE

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.

TL;DR: India vs. Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup final is available to live stream for free on Tamasha. Access this free streaming service from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The 2025 Asia Cup final is finally here, and it's the game that cricket fans from around the world really wanted to see. India are defending their Asia Cup crown against Pakistan in what promises to be an absolutely electric T20 showdown.

If you want to watch India vs. Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup final for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is India vs. Pakistan?

India vs. Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup final starts at 10:30 a.m. ET on Sept. 28. This game takes place at the Dubai International Stadium.

How to watch India vs. Pakistan for free

India vs. Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup is available to live stream for free on Tamasha.

Tamasha is geo-restricted to Pakistan, 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 Pakistan, meaning you can unblock Tamasha from anywhere in the world.

Live stream India vs. Pakistan in the 2025 Asia Cup final 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 Pakistan

4. Visit Tamasha

5. Live stream the 2025 Asia Cup final 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 taking advantage of these offers, you can watch the 2025 Asia Cup without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you plenty of time to watch the tournament for free.

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

What is the best VPN for Tamasha?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for live streaming on free sites like Tamasha, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Pakistan

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2025 Asia Cup final for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: The 2025 Asia Cup is available to live stream for free on Tamasha. Access this free streaming service from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Cricket fans are a lucky bunch. There never seems to be a long wait between top events involving the best teams and players in the world. Already this year we've been treated to the ICC Champions Trophy, India's tour of England, The Hundred, and so many more epic contests, and there's more to come.

Right now fans can enjoy everything that the 2025 Asia Cup has to offer. If you want to watch the 2025 Asia Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Asia Cup?

The Asia Cup is a men's One Day International (ODI) or Twenty20 International (T20I) cricket tournament. The tournament alternates every two years between ODI and T20I formats. In 2025, matches will be played using the T20I format. Eight teams will split into two groups of four, with the top two teams from each group qualifying for a single-group Super Four stage. The top two teams in this stage will meet in the final.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

India are the defending champions.

When is the 2025 Asia Cup?

The 2025 Asia Cup is the 17th edition of the competition. This year's event is scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates from Sept. 9-28. The full schedule is as follows:

• Afghanistan vs. Hong Kong — Sept. 9

• India vs. UAE — Sept. 10

• Bangladesh vs. Hong Kong — Sept. 11

• Pakistan vs. Oman — Sept. 12

• Bangladesh vs. Sri Lanka — Sept. 13

• India vs. Pakistan — Sept. 14

• UAE vs. Oman — Sept. 15

• Sri Lanka vs. Hong Kong — Sept. 15

• Bangladesh vs. Afghanistan — Sept. 16

• Pakistan vs. UAE — Sept. 17

• Sri Lanka vs. Afghanistan — Sept. 18

• India vs. Oman — Sept. 19

• Sri Lanka vs. Bangladesh — Sept. 20

• India vs. Pakistan — Sept. 21

• Pakistan vs. Sri lanka — Sept. 23

• India vs. Bangladesh — Sept. 24

• Pakistan vs. Bangladesh — Sept. 25

• India vs. Sri Lanka — Sept. 26

• India vs. Pakistan — Sept. 28

How to watch the 2025 Asia Cup for free

The 2025 Asia Cup is available to live stream for free on Tamasha.

Tamasha is geo-restricted to Pakistan, 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 Pakistan, meaning you can unblock Tamasha from anywhere in the world.

Live stream the 2025 Asia Cup 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 Pakistan

4. Visit Tamasha

5. Live stream the 2025 Asia Cup 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 taking advantage of these offers, you can watch the 2025 Asia Cup without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you plenty of time to watch the tournament for free.

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

What is the best VPN for Tamasha?

ExpressVPN is tough to beat when it comes to unblocking streaming sites like Tamasha. ExpressVPN is the top choice for live streaming, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Pakistan

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2025 Asia Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

It’s the most wonderful time of year — if you’re an iPhone-head, that is. OK, maybe "most wonderful time of year" is an overstatement, but it is so satisfying when the stars align with your phone plan, your bank account, and new iPhone releases.

I personally love peeling off the tape from that little white box that you end up shoving in a drawer for the next six to 12 years. It seems like when I am due for a new iPhone, my current phone heaves its last dying breath and suffers a mortal tumble on the sidewalk. I’ve since learned my lesson, and with each new phone, I always hunt for the best phone case. If you also keep your phone protected — or if you're among those who don't love the iPhone 17 Pro design — we've rounded up some of the best iPhone 17 Pro cases.

This year, a case is extra important, as by now you've probably heard about Scratchgate. The new iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max feature an aluminum body that's extremely prone to scratching, and I actually recommend buying a case before you even head to the Apple store, just to be safe.

SEE ALSO: Apple claims MagSafe stands are responsible for iPhone 17 'Scratchgate'

I would also be remiss if I didn’t give my current phone case a shoutout. When I picked up a bespoke phone case from Memor, I was mesmerized by their different “genres” of aesthetic: Venus, adastra, nautilus, starlet, musette, and intaglio. I personally chose the category Venus, which Memor says “blends the romantic allure & poetry of Botticelli’s 'The Birth of Venus' with the decadent, whimsical world of Sophia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette."

I always get so many compliments on my phone case, and if I had a dollar for every time it sparked a conversation about our phones' potential to be part of our outfits, I’d have enough dollars to buy two more cases (which I am dying to do). Pssst, Memor has preorders open for iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro phone cases.

If you’re in the market for a new case for your iPhone 17 Pro (or iPhone 17 Pro Max), here are some of the top options from both under-the-radar brands (Memor, Urban Sophistication) and old favorites (Casetify, Spigen, and, of course, Apple itself).

Ringke

Starting our list strong, we have this iPhone 17 Pro case with a built-in card holder. This minimalist case can hold just one card so it’s perfect if you have Apple Pay on your phone and want to carry your ID (or Costco gold membership card). 

This case supports wireless charging and touch-to-pay functions. It also has strap holes for easy accessorizing.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ringke iPhone 17 Pro Max case $20.99 at Ringke
Shop Now Otterbox

If you’re looking for style and durability, this iPhone 17 Pro case is great for you. Embroidered cactus leather features decals of Paris or flowers, stitched with premium thread. The case is designed to withstand daily drops and comes with MagSafe compatibility. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Otterbox Symmetry Series Cactus Leather Embroidery iPhone 17 case $79.99 at Otterbox
Shop Now Otterbox 'Encore Series'

Otterbox recently debuted a new glittery orange phone case that's clearly inspired by Taylor Swift's upcoming The Life of a Showgirl album. Lots of Swifties have noticed that the iPhone 17 Pro Max's signature Cosmic Orange color looks very similar to Swift's color theme for TLoaS, and now you can get cases to match. The Otterbox Encore Series cases are available for the entire iPhone 17 line, plus select Galaxy phones.

Opens in a new window Credit: Otterbox Otterbox 'Encore Series' iPhone 17 Pro Max Case $59.99
Pre-order Here Spigen

These iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max Spigen phone cases are meticulously designed to fit your phone like a glove. Spigen focuses on super precise button and camera holes for a seamless user experience. The clear plastic is also specifically designed to withstand wear, tear, and scuffing. And with a $15.99 price tag, it's significantly less expensive than Apple's own cases.

Opens in a new window Credit: Spigen Spigen iPhone 17 Pro Case $15.99 at Amazon
Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Spigen Spigen for iPhone 17 Pro Max Case $15.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Torras

Okay, it’s super annoying when you have a giant phone case that doesn't slip into your pocket easily and is just generally sort of large and clunky. This iPhone 17 Pro phone case from Torras is perfect if you’re looking for a slim profile phone case that protects your phone and doesn’t take up too much space.

Opens in a new window Credit: TORRAS TORRAS iPhone 17 Pro $21.98 at Amazon
$25.99 Save $4.01 Get Deal Apple

Some of the best iPhone 17 Pro Max cases come from Apple itself, which is hardly a surprise. (Though, Apple iPhone cases do tend to be a bit pricey compared to the alternatives.) And for the iPhone 17 line, Apple introduced a new line of TechWoven cases. However, I especially love Apple’s durable, clear phone case that displays the unique color of the iPhone you selected. So, if you are a fan of the new Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro Max, opt for a case that shows it off.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max Case $49 at Amazon
Get Deal iPhone 17 Pro Max TechWoven

The Apple iPhone 17 Pro TechWoven case is ideal for those seeking a more textile-like feel over a smooth, plasticky surface texture. This case comes in some soothing, subtle colors like sienna, purple, green, and blue. Pro tip: If you're a gamer, combine the Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro Max with a brown TechWoven case for a combination people are calling the "Master Chief iPhone."

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max TechWoven $52.99 at Amazon
$59 Save $6.01 Get Deal Kate Spade New York

This MagSafe-compatible phone case from Kate Spade New York is made from up to 40 percent recycled materials and has a classic tortoiseshell design. The designer brand has about a dozen iPhone 17 Pro cases, including some fashion-forward cases with a wavy, ombre design.

These cases come in a myriad of colors and patterns with the chic and recognizable Kate Spade New York insignia. This is an excellent option if you want your case to seamlessly blend into your personal style.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kate Spade New York Kate Spade New York iPhone 17 Pro Case $55 at Amazon
Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Kate Spade New York Kate Spade New York iPhone 17 Pro Max Case $54.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Casetify

Casetify has so many excellent options when it comes to picking up a new case for your phone. This brightly colored case features a fun design and 11.5-foot drop protection. Its cases are wireless charging compatible and made from recycled plastic.

Opens in a new window Credit: Casetify Pink Wavy Border on Orange compact case $50 at Casetify
Get Deal

Compact iPhone 17 Pro Case

If you prefer to keep things minimal (and still enjoy all the benefits of MagSafe), then try the Casetify Compact case, available for the 17 Pro and Pro Max via Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: CASETiFY CASETiFY Compact iPhone 17 Pro Case $50 at Amazon
Shop Now Impact iPhone 17 Pro Case

If you want the highest level of protection, then opt for Casetify's Impact line of cases, with military-grade drop protection. Available in dozens of colors, we prefer this impressionist-style floral case.

Opens in a new window Credit: Casetify Casetify Impact iPhone 17 Pro Case $64 at Amazon
Shop Now DOMAVER

This iPhone 17 Pro phone case is perfect for someone looking for a statement color and an atypical silhouette. This case comes in bright orange with a screen protector and MagSafe charging capability. It also has a translucent matte finish, if getting a specific color of iPhone is important to you -- and you want it to show through the case.

Opens in a new window Credit: Domaver DOMAVER iPhone 17 Pro Case $17.99 at Amazon
$19.99 Save $2 Get Deal Burga

If you want a pop of pop culture iconography, you could pick up an iPhone 17 Pro case from Burga. The printed tin of sardines is vivid and meant to last.

Opens in a new window Credit: Burga Burga Gourmet iPhone 17 Pro case $54.95 at Burga
Shop Now Armor-X

Armor-X has this excellent iPhone 17 Pro case that delivers on all fronts for people who want a phone case that is downright tough. Its cover is shock and waterproof, and it even features a carabiner mount. It’s also fully submersible in up to six feet of water for nearly two hours. The crystal-clear built-in screen protector is compatible with surgical gloves, and the case extends slightly, protecting the cameras from getting scratched.

Opens in a new window Credit: Armor-X MX-IPH-17PRO iPhone 17 Pro case $69.99 at Armor-X
Shop Now Caseco

So maybe you want something sleek and trustworthy, but it does not need sardine tins or extreme sports durability. In that case, this silicone MagSafe black iPhone 17 Pro case from Caseco is an excellent option. It comes in at $34.99 and feels extra soft to the touch.

Opens in a new window Credit: Caseco iPhone 17 Pro Silicone Case With MagSafe $34.99 at Caseco
Shop Now Otofly

This silicone case from Otofly has a flat-back design for a seamless grip and fit in your phone. It has drop protection up to seven feet.

Opens in a new window Credit: Otofly iPhone 17 Pro Silicone Case with MagSafe $29.99 at Otofly
Shop Now Urban Sophistication

Another fashion-forward phone case for the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro Max is this puffer coat-style case from Urban Sophistication. I personally love a statement accessory, even with my phone. It comes in many bold colors while remaining light and squishy and still offering excellent protection for your device.

Opens in a new window Credit: Urban Sophistication The Puffer Case $80
Shop Now Mous

Mous offers phone cases and packages that deliver on all fronts. This package from Mous for iPhone 17 Pro features sleek, muted colors, 360-degree screen protection, and a removable magnetic wallet for your cards.

Opens in a new window Credit: Mous iPhone Starter Kit $127.27 at Mous
$149.97 Save $22.70 Shop Now Velvet Caviar

Another style-forward option includes this stardust glitter iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max case from Velvet Caviar. Velvet Caviar specializes in offering extensive matching sets of related products. For example, you can get a case, strap, and purse all in the same pattern if that’s your jam. On top of style options, its cases hold up to wear and tear, have scratch-resistant coating, and a 10-foot drop test certification.

Opens in a new window Credit: Velvet Caviar Stardust Glitter iPhone Case $40 at Velvet Caviar
Shop Now Mkeke

For those looking to spend the least amount possible for the most protection, this case from Mkeke boasts military-grade drop protection (meaning they have rigorously drop tested the case over 30,000 times). The case features a technology called Shockproof Bumpers, which features three layers of elastic airpads on each corner to protect the device during bumps, thumps, and falls. The clear case also claims to be anti-yellowing.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Mkeke iPhone 17 Pro Case $9.99 at Amazon
$19.99 Save $10.00 Shop Now MOCCA

This case from MOCCA features an invisible magnetic stand that pops out to support your phone whenever you need it. It also comes in a fun pink color, has military drop testing, and is MagSafe compatible.

Opens in a new window Credit: MOCCA MOCCA iPhone 17 Pro Case $29.99 at Amazon
Shop Now ESR

This silicone case from ESR possesses a sleek stand that rests around the rim of the camera. The stand seamlessly blends in with the case. The case has military-grade drop protection and boasts a stronger-than-average magnetic connection in its MagSafe compatibility. This means that the magnetic charger is more likely to stay attached to the phone.

Opens in a new window Credit: ESR ESR iPhone 17 Pro Case $32.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Pela

Aesthetic attraction is a super valid desire and consideration when it comes to picking out your phone case. This Pela Seashell Farm Market case for iPhone 17 Pro is perfect for someone looking for beautiful art on their phone case. This printed pattern is super detailed, and the brand uses sustainable materials for its cases. 

Opens in a new window Credit: Pela Pela Seashell Farm Market iPhone 17 Pro Case $75 at Pela
Shop Now Honorable Mention: Apple Crossbody Strap

At the Apple Event 2025, Apple didn't just introduce new watches, phones, and AirPods. In between the headline news, your favorite fruit company also debuted some new accessories. We've already talked about the new TechWoven iPhone 17 cases, but you can also pair your magnetic iPhone case with the new Apple Crossbody Strap.

While it's not technically an iPhone 17 case, it will pair well with any of Apple's official cases.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Crossbody Strap $59 at Walmart
Shop Now

TL;DR: Live stream Chiefs vs. Ravens in the NFL for free on 5Action. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with IPVanish.

There are a number of really interesting matchups in the next round of NFL fixtures, but Chiefs vs. Ravens is probably the best of the bunch. The Kansas City Chiefs finally got their first win last weekend, and now they face the 1-2 Baltimore Ravens in what promises to be an exciting matchup.

If you want to watch Chiefs vs. Ravens in the NFL for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Chiefs vs. Ravens?

Chiefs vs. Ravens in the NFL starts at 4:25 p.m. ET on Sept. 28. This game takes place at Arrowhead Stadium.

How to watch Chiefs vs. Ravens for free

Chiefs vs. Ravens in the NFL is available to live stream for free on 5Action.

5Action is geo-restricted to the UK, 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 the UK, meaning you can unblock 5Action from anywhere in the world.

SEE ALSO: Get Paramount+ for half price just in time for NFL Sundays

Live stream Chiefs vs. Ravens for free by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Visit 5Action

5. Live stream Chiefs vs. Ravens for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: IPVanish IPVanish (2-Year Plan) $52.56 at IPVanish (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Chiefs vs. Ravens in the NFL without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream select fixtures from the NFL before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming sites to follow the whole season, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for unblocking streaming services is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for 5Action?

IPVanish is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on 5Action, for a number of reasons:

• 3,100 servers in 145+ locations including the UK

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

• AES 256 encryption and operates with a zero-logs privacy policy

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Unlimited simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to IPVanish is on sale for just $52.56 — 83% off for a limited time. This plan includes advanced privacy features, threat protection, unlimited connections, 24/7 support, and the 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Chiefs vs. Ravens in the NFL for free with IPVanish.

Editor's Note: IPVanish is owned by Ziff Davis, Mashable's parent company. Any products featured on Mashable are covered independently by our editorial team.

TL;DR: Enjoy eight powerful apps with this Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows lifetime license, now for just $49.97 (reg. $219.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows: Lifetime License $49.97
$219.99 Save $170.02 Get Deal

Apps are pretty expensive these days, often coming with hefty monthly subscription fees. So getting a vital app for under $7 for life is a steal. That’s how much these Microsoft Office apps boil down to in this lifetime Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows license — just $49.97 (reg. $219.99) for eight essential apps.

If you want to give your PC a boost and outfit it with eight helpful apps, the Microsoft Office Professional 2021 license is an easy and affordable option. It gives you classic tools like Word to help you draft documents and Excel to create spreadsheets, and also includes newer additions to the Microsoft Office family like Teams to keep in touch with your coworkers.

SEE ALSO: The ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 18 gaming laptop is down to its lowest-ever price at Amazon — save $500 right now

This lifetime license also gives you permanent access to PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, OneNote, and Publisher. You don’t need to worry about it being a 2021 edition either, as this version has some unique advantages. The tools have all been redesigned, and you’ll have the ability to work offline without constant cloud dependency.

Before you purchase, make sure your computer is running Windows 10 or 11. You’ll get instant download access and free customer support anytime you need it.

Outfit your PC with this Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows lifetime license, now only $49.97 (reg. $219.99).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Get a powerful MacBook Pro, complete with 1TB of storage, for just $439.99 (reg. $1,999).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro 13-Inch 2020 (Refurbished) $439.99
$1,999 Save $1,559.01 Get Deal

Looking for a laptop that can keep up with your storage demands? As we continue to accumulate more photos, videos, and important files, investing in a laptop with massive storage capacities is a smart move. And the only thing smarter would be making it one of Apple’s most powerful portable devices, the MacBook Pro.

Right now, you can snag a feature-packed 13-inch MacBook Pro, complete with 1TB of SSD, for just $439.99 (reg. $1,999), while supplies last.

SEE ALSO: This MacBook Air is under $200 for a limited time

There’s a reason the MacBook Pro has amassed such a massive fan base — this laptop has a lot to offer. A 13.3-inch Retina display features Apple’s True Tone Technology, which automatically adjusts depending on your lighting and helps reduce eye strain.

Everything you see on that vibrant screen is powered by the 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, which offers a 2GHz base speed that makes multitasking smooth and steady. With 1TB of storage, you can save all of your important files locally, without shelling out extra for cloud storage or hard drives.

A Magic Keyboard with Touch Bar offers a comfortable typing experience and easy access to shortcuts to save you time on this MacBook Pro. There’s Touch ID to keep your device safe, and four Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) Ports for easy connectivity. This model also offers 10 hours of battery life, so you don’t have to worry about frequent charging.

You’re securing a massive discount due to this model’s grade A refurbished rating. That means you’ll receive a device in near-mint condition, with minimal to zero amounts of scuffing on the case.

Bring home a MacBook Pro for just $439.99 (reg. $1,999) while supplies last.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Upgrade an old PC with this lifetime license to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro, now just $12.97 (reg. $199) through Sept. 28.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $12.97
$199 Save $186.03 Get Deal

If you’re not in the market to shell out hundreds of dollars for a new laptop, a new operating system is the next best thing. Right now, you can dust off an old PC and make it feel good as new for just $12.97 (reg. $199) with this deal on a lifetime license to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro — but you’ll need to act fast. This deal only runs for five more days through Sept. 28.

Windows 11 Pro was made with the modern professional in mind, so you can rest assured your PC will be sleeker and more efficient with this upgrade. It offers a seamless interface, snap layouts, improved voice typing, and a more powerful search experience, just to name a few perks. You can also take advantage of touchscreen functionality for added flexibility.

SEE ALSO: Score Microsoft Office for Windows as a lifetime license for under $50

Ditch the expensive AI subscriptions. With Windows 11 Pro, you’ll have access to Copilot, your own AI-powered assistant, right on your desktop. When it’s time to get back to work, Microsoft Teams, Azure AD, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox are all ready to help. And if you’re a gamer, you can also take advantage of DirectX 12 and take your gaming to the next level.

There are plenty of cybersecurity improvements, too. Enjoy biometric logins, encrypted authentication, and enhanced antivirus protection.

Act fast to secure this lifetime license to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for only $12.97 (reg. $199) through Sept. 28.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: TerraCycle is an alternative recycling platform that recycles post-consumer items that are considered non-recyclable by mainstream municipal-level waste management facilities. More people need to know that TerraCycle has a huge free mail-in recycling program, through which consumers can collect and send in "trash" from Tide, Swiffer, Brita, Yankee Candle, and more. It's all funded by the brands themselves, which means it's free to you.

Recycling rules are often so convoluted that many people just give up on recycling altogether. Coincidentally, most recycling centers have given up for similar reasons.

Our lackadaisical efforts are evidenced by the troves of plastic waste taking over landfills, piling up on beaches, or floating in the ocean. We've all seen the photos or watched a documentary (my personal experience is the classic "watch A Plastic Ocean" to "learn how to recycle everything" pipeline that's been evolving for almost a decade now). The problem is, while we have documentation that the earth isn't a bottomless pit, we haven't been thoroughly taught how to recycle tricky materials past straightforward paper and aluminum, or conditioned to care about creating so much trash.

In-person drop-off locations for recycling of items like batteries and beauty empties do exist in some places. But that still leaves the fate of a ton of everyday items up in the air.

One of the coolest recycling hacks I've discovered is TerraCycle, a New Jersey-based company that's rewriting the script on what can actually be recycled — and putting more power into the hands of the individual consumer. I hopped on a video call with Tom Szaky, CEO and founder of TerraCycle, to find out more about the organization's evolution and the past, present, and future of our epic trash problem.

What is TerraCycle?

The genesis of TerraCycle stemmed from Szaky's interest in entrepreneurship, but through the lens of making society or the planet better — not just making money. "Garbage is filled with all of these anomalies. Isn't it odd that everything we possess will one day be legal property of a garbage company?" Our current waste system seemed like a problem to solve that no company had ever tried to tackle. 25 years later, TerraCycle is an innovative multi-country recycling platform that recycles items that we've always been told aren't recyclable.

SEE ALSO: The Mill food recycling bin is the easiest indoor composter alternative, and my all-time favorite appliance

What started as a niche volunteer-based operation has grown into a system that corporate donors want in on. Through them, TerraCycle offers a free way to recycle just about all of the shitty plastic stuff we encounter on a daily basis. If it's marketed as disposable, that's TerraCycle's wheelhouse.

After a meticulous sorting, aggregating, and cleaning process, the end result of items recycled through TerraCycle is raw material used to make a ton of stuff: outdoor furniture, shipping pellets, flooring tiles, bike frames, athletic field turf, and more.

TerraCycle creates raw material from plastic that would be trashed otherwise. Credit: TerraCycle This playground's ground covering is made from recycled raw material from TerraCycle. Credit: TerraCycle Why is recycling so hard?

When you Google TerraCycle, a rather nebulous query appears in the "People also ask" section: "Why aren't we recycling?" I don't know whether they meant consumers or waste management companies by "we," but yeah, why aren't we?

On the consumer end, there are too many logistical hoops to jump through. What can and can't be recycled depends on local guidelines, and curbside recycling or nearby recycling centers aren't a thing in some areas. Plus, it's not common knowledge that the number inside a triangle doesn't automatically mean the packaging it's on is recyclable. (It's just a resin identification code for the trash center.) People are confused and just start tossing whatever in the recycling bin, just in case. I mean, it's 2025. We're in the midst of an AI boom. Surely we've figured out how to recycle everything. Right? That blissful assumption is called wishcycling, and it gives far too much credit to the US recycling system.

The thing is, most materials can technically be recycled, in terms of the material having the physical possibility of being repurposed. Waste management companies just don't want to pay for it. "All recycling in the world is operated by for-profit companies," Szaky said. "So really what makes the cardboard box recyclable is that it's profitable to recycle it. And what makes the toothbrush not recyclable is because it's not profitable to recycle."

SEE ALSO: Glacier’s AI robots tackle recycling crisis, cutting waste and emissions

Plastic is a particularly formidable and costly mess. There's a longer process involved with sorting the different types of plastic and inspecting tiny pieces out of pounds and pounds of crap, all while trying to avoid contamination from food residue or plastic bags clogging the machines. It requires paying more people, and selling the sorted plastic isn't as lucrative as, say, selling straightforward recycled aluminum or glass. Our economy's shift to plastic was never rooted in ensuring its recyclability — it's rooted in being cheap.

As bleak as it is, Szaky says plastic has very low recycling rates in the U.S. because, outside of companies like TerraCycle, there is no money to be made.

One thing that Szaky said really stuck out to me: "Recycling is not a public service. It's urban mining for your garbage." According to Szaky, one-third of Americans live in a "recycling desert" — a place where the local municipality hasn't put money into recycling. And even in many places where recycling is available, the insurmountable load of discarded items in recycling bins still don't wind up where they should. The ol' "Apple AirTag in the recycling bin" test has been used by regular people and news outlets alike to track recycling, often finding heaps of plastic just waiting around landfill-style.

What can you recycle with TerraCycle?

TerraCycle is one company offering a legitimate alternative to relying on your local half-assed recycling program. It offers several outlets for recycling "non-recyclable" items, with the most accessible route for most people being free mail-in recycling programs.

This is a very welcome, affordable alternative to TerraCycle's Zero Waste Box system, which originally put TerraCycle on my radar during my inaugural spiral about recycling in 2018. You can order a Zero Waste Box to act as a receptacle for non-recyclable categories like snack and candy wrappers or plastic bags and packaging. It's an amazingly flexible system, but those boxes are expensive for one person to take on. I was so pumped to find out that TerraCycle has free options now.

SEE ALSO: As tariffs invade the apparel market, selling your clothes online is the move — here's how

I've gathered that way fewer people know that free recycling options like this exist, especially ones that don't require Googling any local regulations. With TerraCycle, all you have to do is separate your former trash by brand. Here's how it works:

• Scroll through the 106 brands that have set up a mail-in program with TerraCycle. You can send back Gillette and Venus razors, Colgate toothbrushing gear, Takis bags, Brita pitchers and filters, Tide laundry supplies, Swiffer pads, Yankee candle jars and air fresheners, Gerber baby food packaging, and so much more. TerraCycle even has free programs for cigarette butts and Taco Bell sauce packets.

• Clock the ones you use regularly and save that trash somewhere. Try to collect enough recyclables from one brand to fill a box — you can reuse any box that you may have lying around, like a Prime package.

I have an embarrassing number of Late July tortilla chip bags in my closet, waiting to be sent to TerraCycle. Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

• Create a free TerraCycle account.

• Download a shipping label (or a QR code) and drop the box in the mail. Some brands cover shipping costs for their program, while others require the consumer to pay. That may not technically be "free" anymore, but a shipping label often doesn't cost more than $10 or $15.

To be honest, my low-waste lifestyle journey is already in a stage where many of my daily products are already reusable. I don't go through toothpaste tubes or disposable toothbrushes because I use chewable toothpaste (don't knock it 'till you try it) and have a recyclable electric toothbrush. I do laundry with dissolvable detergent sheets and ditched my Swiffer forever ago for a robot vacuum that mops. But I only started taking the reusable route once I subconsciously started paying attention to how much junk I was throwing out on a daily basis. The habit of saving some of your trash with TerraCycle could snap you out of your dependence on disposable stuff, too.

Who's paying for the free recycling programs?

As we now know, recycling such complex mixed materials ain't cheap. So how can TerraCycle afford to accept so many items for free? The brands themselves are paying for it. Unlike the Zero Waste Box, which are pricier because the consumer is footing the bill, these brands have partnered with TerraCycle to cover the steep costs involved with recycling their products. Cost is one of the main factors playing into the average person's decision-making or daily routine, so ensuring that recycling is actually affordable chips away at that barrier.

But are people actually incentivized to buy a certain brand if they think it's "more recyclable" than another? Szaky informed me that TerraCycle has overwhelmingly found that consumers lean toward brands that tote the "Recycle with TerraCycle" logo. Whether these mega brands actually care about the environment or are just in it to look socially aware, I don't know. Either way, they took action after hearing that customers actually do care about the environmental impacts of their shopping.

What else does TerraCycle do?

Zero Waste Boxes are still a core facet of TerraCycle's model. You can order a Zero Waste Box (between $105 and $241) or smaller Zero Waste Pouches (between $34 and $48) to recycle items from old action figures to office supplies to plastic gloves. Because waste from any brand can be put into these packages, no singular brand is funding this side of things — the consumer who wants to recycle has to cover the cost. The bigger variety that the selected box accepts, the more expensive the box.

Schools can even fundraise through TerraCycle by setting up recycling stations to earn points that can be redeemed for cash.

Several schools have set up TerraCycle bins for recycling snack wrappers, drink pouches, and even old school or office supplies. Credit: TerraCycle The end goal? To create less waste in the first place.

The end goal, of course, is to distance ourselves from our reliance on single-use packaging and create less waste in the first place. TerraCycle has already implemented its reusable packaging program, Loop, at grocery stores in France and Japan, but has paused Loop's expansion to the U.S. until laws or subsidies might support its reboot. "This is where regulation is really valuable to further environmental work," Szaky said. So, in other words, use your vote to advocate for climate change action.

Divesting in plastic would also require financial incentives for manufacturers to stop using plastic to make every damn thing. Maybe we'll finally see funds allocated to the type of robust recycling that TerraCycle does, so that a consumer's willingness to recycle doesn't hinge on so much extra effort or money spent. I couldn't not ask Szaky about the future of the Taco Bell sauce packet situation — and hopefully you'll see a TerraCycle bin in a Taco Bell sometime soon.

In the meantime, TerraCycle is an easy, affordable way to make the best out of an abandoned waste crisis.