Mashable

UPDATE: Jan. 25, 2024, 12:20 p.m. EST Let's make that six. Microsoft has slashed 1,900 jobs across Xbox and Activision, adding to the disturbing, growing list of tech layoffs.

SEE ALSO: The internet is mad at Xbox head Phil Spencer after Microsoft Gaming lays off 1,900

We're not even a month into 2024 and tech companies are already ruining lives by the thousands.

While that may sound harsh, there's not much of a better way to describe mass layoffs by enormous corporations that make popular products. The latest is eBay, which announced its decision to lay off 1,000 employees this week despite posting profits of $1.3 billion in the last fiscal quarter.

But eBay isn't the only one. Here are five other big tech companies that have cut huge swaths of jobs this January alone.

1. Twitch

First up is Twitch, the preeminent video game streaming platform in the U.S. Gamers frequently flock to Amazon-owned Twitch, which recorded massive profits in a fiscal report back in October. From the outside looking in, one would think Twitch wouldn't need to cut hundreds of staff, but that's not the case, apparently.

Twitch confirmed in a company blog post that "just over" 500 roles were cut in its latest round of layoffs.

"I know many of you are wondering why this is happening." Twitch CEO Dan Clancy wrote. "Over the last year, we’ve been working to build a more sustainable business so that Twitch will be here for the long run and throughout the year we have cut costs and made many decisions to be more efficient. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, it has become clear that our organization is still meaningfully larger than it needs to be given the size of our business."

2. Google

Last week, the company behind the one website people probably use more than any other announced huge layoffs. Google confirmed to The Verge that it had laid off around 1,000 employees earlier this month. The cuts focused on the Fitbit, Pixel, Nest, engineering, and Assistant teams.

In case you were wondering, Google parent company Alphabet reported $69 billion in revenue and just under $14 billion in profits in its most recent quarterly earnings report.

“A number of our teams made changes to become more efficient and work better,” Google spokesperson Courtenay Mencini told The Verge. “Some teams are continuing to make these kinds of organizational changes, which include some role eliminations globally.”

3. Amazon

We've already established that Amazon made a lot of money in 2023, way back in the Twitch portion of this article. Now it's time to talk about the mothership itself.

Just this month alone, Amazon laid off "several hundred" employees in its streaming division, as well as 30 employees in its "Buy with Prime" division. Per TechCrunch, Amazon has eliminated 27,000 jobs in just the last two years.

"We regularly review the structure of our teams and make adjustments based on the needs of the business and, following a recent review, we’ve made the difficult decision to eliminate a small number of roles on our Buy with Prime team," An Amazon spokesperson told TechCrunch.

Again, Amazon makes a lot of money.

4. Riot Games

In case you aren't in the loop, Riot Games is the company behind several hit video games, including League of Legends and Valorant. Unfortunately, the popularity of those games did not preclude Riot from joining the layoffs bandwagon this month.

Riot confirmed in a blog post that 530 jobs were cut globally this week. That's roughly 11 percent of the company's total workforce.

"Over the past several months, we’ve tried to alter our trajectory in many different ways," CEO Dylan Jadeja wrote. "We asked leaders to make tradeoffs in the things their teams are working on. We rolled out hiring slowdowns, and in some cases hiring freezes. We put an emphasis on controlling costs while strengthening our revenue growth. All of which has without a doubt been tough for our teams." 

However, according to Jadeja, these tactics didn't move the needle. "As I’ve dug in with leaders across Riot, it’s become clear to all of us that these changes aren’t enough."

Exact financial data about Riot isn't as easy to find as the other companies on this list, but data research firm Priori Data estimated that League of Legends had 180 million monthly active players in 2022.

5. TikTok

TikTok is the current social center of the internet, but that's not enough to keep parent company ByteDance from doing layoffs.

Around 60 employees were let go from TikTok earlier this week, according to NPR. This is despite north of 150 million active users in the U.S. and a ByteDance company valuation of $225 billion, per the NPR report. Again, no matter how big or important a product is, the people behind is are never safe from layoffs.

According to AP, TikTok did not provide a reason for the layoffs.

UPDATE: Jan. 25, 2024, 2:57 p.m. EST Updated with more accuracy on Google's 2024 layoffs.

50% OFF + FREE TOY: Spark some fireworks this V-Day with up to 50% off luxury toys at LELO, plus a FREE lipstick vibe (when you spend $189 or more).

Opens in a new window Credit: LELO LELO Valentine's Day Sale 50% off plus a free Mia 2 with $189 purchase Get Deal

While it may feel like January just got here, it's pretty much over next week, which means Valentine's Day is basically tomorrow. If you're still struggling to come up with a naughty surprise or find a gift for your partner (or yourself because it's a day to celebrate all the loves in your life), LELO has a deal we couldn't help but share.

SEE ALSO: The best sex toy deals to shop this week

LELO's offering up to 50% off select items during its Ignite Passion V-Day Sale and giving away a Mia 2 lipstick vibe with any purchase of $189 or more (which shouldn't be hard to do). The Mia 2 is $89 on its own, so it's a pretty sweet deal. It's also USB-rechargeable, comes in pink, deep rose, and black, and features six pleasure settings for discreet Os on the go.

Whether you're looking to treat yourself (go for it!) or give your partner a Valentine's Day they'll never forget, LELO's got a little bit of something for everyone.

Here are a few honorable mentions from the sale:

LELO Smartwand 2 Large Opens in a new window Credit: LELO Our pick: LELO Smartwand 2 Large $139.30 at LELO (save $59.70) Get Deal Why we like it

If you like intense, gotta-come-now stimulation, you need this toy. The LELO Smartwand 2 Large isn't just a wand vibrator; it's the quickest transit you'll ever get to orgasmic bliss (if you've gotten there quicker, we'd like to know your secret).

This powerful wand vibrator has an extra-long-lasting charge for hours of playtime, an ergonomically designed handle so your wrist doesn't break during solo sessions, and 10 settings to bring you to your peak. (There's a reason it's in our best sex toys for women roundup.)

LELO SORAYA 2 Opens in a new window Credit: LELO Our pick: LELO SORAYA 2 $171.75 at LELO (save $57.25) Get Deal Why we like it

The SORAYA 2 is one of LELO's best-selling rabbit vibrators. (It won an iF Design Award in 2020.) With an extended tip for G-spot stimulation, a smaller, flexible arm for clitoral pleasure, and 12 vibration settings, this toy is packing opportunity and power. It's ideal for blended orgasms and versatile enough to please anyone who's looking for dual stimulation.

If you'd like to kick things up a notch, Mashable's associate editor of features, Ann Iovine, recommends trying out the SORAYA Wave. It features a "come hither" motion that mimics the sensation of fingers for a unique and pleasurable experience.

LELO HUGO Opens in a new window Credit: LELO Our pick: LELO HUGO $141.75 (save $47.25) Get Deal Why we like it

The HUGO is a pretty hot commodity for fans of prostate stimulation. It's helped everyone from beginners to couples to experienced users break into a whole new world of pleasure and have the "best orgasms of their lives." It features six settings, comes with a remote, and, like most of LELO's toys, is 100% waterproof.

Honestly, the reviews speak for themselves when it comes to the LELO Hugo. One reviewer even said it's a good competitor to the Aneros brand (known for its prostate massagers).

So, what are you waiting for? Jump on it. Take advantage of LELO's V-Day sale now and treat yourself or your partner to up to 50% off and a free toy.

SAVE 43%: A certified refurbished Amazon Smart Thermostat is just $39.99 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $69.99. That's a savings of $30.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Smart Thermostat (refurbished) $39.99 at Amazon (save $30) Get Deal

We're about a month into 2024 and if you're feeling like prices keep creeping up, you're in good company. If your goal this year is to save money, today's deal at Amazon is a double win for your household.

As of Jan. 24, a certified refurbished Amazon Smart Thermostat is just $39.99, down from the normal price of $69.99 for a refurbished model or $79.99 for a new Amazon Smart Thermostat. That's a savings of $30 off a refurbished model and $40 compared to a new thermostat.

The savings can add up quickly with this deal. Not only is the refurbished thermostat itself a deal, it's also Energy Star Certified, which Amazon says can save homes up to $50 per year on energy bills.

SEE ALSO: Here's why a smart lock should be the first smart home device you own

This addition to a smart home is made with Honeywell Home Thermostat Technology, so you can rest assured it's made by HVAC experts. You'll be able to control the temperature and set schedules for your ideal temperatures for daytime, while you're out of the house, and while sleeping through the Alexa app. If you're not thrilled about using the app, you can also physically control the temperature on the thermostat's screen.

If you're curious about energy usage, the Alexa app can show detailed reports about usage per day, week, and month and compare it with previous periods.

If you're looking for an inexpensive way to enter the world of smart thermostats, today's deal on a certified refurbished Amazon Smart Thermostat is a great way to start your journey to saving on energy bills.

Looking for some extra security at home? Amazon has home security cameras on sale from eufy and Blink to help protect your home inside and out.

Security Camera Sale Best indoor security camera deal eufy Security Indoor Cam E220 $35.99 at Amazon (save $19) Get Deal Best outdoor security camera deal eufy E340 Security Floodlight Camera $189.99 at Amazon (save $30) Get Deal Best refurbished security camera deal Blink Outdoor security camera 2-pack (refurbished) $95.99 at Amazon (Save $64) Get Deal

Whether you're leaving on a long vacation or spending the weekend at a friend's house, your home's safety and security are likely always on your mind. It can be hard to leave your loved ones and your belongings alone without any way to know what's going on at home. That's where security cameras come in to give you peace of mind.

As of Jan. 24, you can save up to 40% off a variety of indoor and outdoor security cameras at Amazon. Brands like eufy and Blink are up for grabs for deep discounts that you won't want to miss so you can have that sense of security you look for when you leave the house. They're affordable, controlled remotely through an app on your phone, and can send you alerts to what's happening so you don't have to worry.

Below, find our picks for the best security cameras on sale at Amazon now.

Best indoor security camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: eufy Security Indoor Cam E220 $35.99 at Amazon (save $19) Get Deal Why we like it

The eufy E220 Security Indoor Cam is our favorite indoor security camera for several reasons. It offers 2K video recordings and 8x digital zoom so you can see just about everything that goes on around you, plus a suite of additional features, including 360-degree activity tracking and an integrated siren in the event you have to scare someone away. You get all this for a super low price, made even lower since this model is on sale.

Best outdoor security camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: eufy E340 Security Floodlight Camera $189.99 at Amazon (save $30) Get Deal Why we like it

The eufy E340 Security Floodlight Camera is the perfect solution for anyone who needs to keep an eye on large yards, garages, or areas outside of their home that are often shrouded in darkness. Its super-bright, 2,000-lumen peak brightness floodlight has dimming and smart illumination features that can be customized to your schedule, with motion-activated options and ambient lighting as well. You get 360-degree camera coverage with pan and tilt views and 24/7 recording just in case, with local storage by way of a microSD card. Plus, it comes with two cameras on board to make sure you've got the bigger picture when it comes to possible malicious activity outside of your home.

Best refurbished security camera deal Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Our pick: Blink Outdoor security camera 2-pack (Refurbished) $95.99 at Amazon (save $63.99) Get Deal Why we like it

The Blink Outdoor security camera 2-pack (refurbished) is a fully tested option from Amazon that comes with a certified refurbished guarantee, so you have peace of mind that it'll work as it says it should. This wireless, battery-powered HD security camera runs on two AA batteries and claims to stay powered up for two years. It uses infrared night vision to help you see in the dark and can withstand the elements so you stay on top of anything that happens to go on while you can't be home.

TL;DR: Stream the 2024 Australian Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming service from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Australia is the place to be for tennis fans this month, but it's a terribly long way to travel.

Fortunately, you can watch all the action without travelling to the other side of the world. The United Cup, Adelaide International, and Brisbane International kicked things off this year, and now for the main event — the Australian Open. The first Grand Slam of the year is the focus for the best players in the world, and you can watch every game without spending anything.

If you want to watch the 2024 Australian Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Australian Open?

The Australian Open is a tennis tournament held annually at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Australia. The tournament is the first of the four Grand Slam tennis events held each year.

The current singles champions are Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka.

When is the 2024 Australian Open?

The 2024 Australian Open is the 112th edition of the tournament. This year's event will take place from Jan. 14 to Jan. 28.

How to watch the 2024 Australian Open for free

You can watch every match from the Australian Open for free on 9Now.

This popular streaming platform is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this free service with a VPN. These tools can hide your digital location and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can connect to 9Now from anywhere in the world.

Access 9Now from anywhere in the world by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Visit 9Now

5. Stream the 2024 Australian Open for free

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) £82.82 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to 9Now without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2024 Australian Open for free.

Simply use ExpressVPN to unblock 9Now, watch the Australian Open, and then recover your investment without hassle. It's not complicated.

What is the best VPN for 9Now?

ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking 9Now, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 94 countries including Australia

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to five simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £82.82 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Watch the 2024 Australian Open for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Stream Zambia vs. Morocco for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The BBC has secured the rights to broadcast 10 AFCON fixtures, including two matches from the round of 16, two from the quarter-finals, both semi-finals, and the final. We've already been treated to Ivory Coast vs. Guinea-Bissau and Egypt vs. Ghana on the platform, and next up is Zambia vs. Morocco.

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

When is Zambia vs. Morocco?

Zambia vs. Morocco kicks off at 8 p.m. GMT on Jan. 24. This fixture takes place at the Laurent Pokou Stadium in San Pédro, Ivory Coast.

How to watch Zambia vs. Morocco for free

The match between Zambia and Morocco will be broadcast live on BBC Three, with coverage starting from 7:50 p.m. GMT on Jan. 24. You can also live stream this fixture for free on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming service with a VPN. These powerful tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can access BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.

Access BBC iPlayer to stream AFCON 2023 by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Visit BBC iPlayer

5. Stream Zambia vs. Morocco for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) £82.82 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch Zambia vs. Morocco before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 94 countries including the UK

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to five simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £82.82 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Watch Zambia vs. Morocco for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

SAVE 10%: Normally $29.99, Palworld is on sale for $26.99 via Steam as part of an introductory offer that's live until Thursday, Jan. 25 at 1 p.m. ET.

Opens in a new window Credit: Pocketpair 'Palworld' (PC) $26.99 on Steam (save $3) Get Deal

Pocketpair's new survival crafting game Palworld came bursting out of the gate guns ablazing. Less than a week after launch, it's sold over 7 million copies and surpassed 1.8 million concurrent players on Steam to become the second most-played game ever on the platform.

If you weren't one of those many, many players, consider hopping on the bandwagon within the next 24 hours or so: Palworld is on sale for 10% off on Steam until Thursday, Jan. 25 at 1 p.m. as part of an introductory offer, which brings it down a few bucks to $26.99. (Note that this discount is only available for PC players — the Xbox version is still full price.)

SEE ALSO: The controversy around 'Pokémon with guns' game 'Palworld,' explained

Palworld has been recurrently referred to as "Pokémon with guns," (and The Pokémon Company has noticed) but it's really more like "ARK: Survival Evolved with Pokémon." Players exploring its open world will find it teeming with crafting materials and critters called Pals, which look like a lot like Pocket Monsters (to the point where it's a little sus). Pals can be tamed, fought, bred, ridden, armed, employed at your base, assigned chores, whisked into battle, and yes, even eaten. If you want to build a Pal empire with friends, multiplayer works with up to four people in online co-op mode and up to 32 on a dedicated server.

An important heads-up that Palworld is still in its early access phase, and according to a developer note on its Steam page, it'll remain that way for at least a year as more content and improvements are added. As things currently stand, though, the game is pretty fun as-is: The early access PC version got an 8/10 from our comrades at IGN (which is owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis), who said "deep survival mechanics and a hilarious attitude make it hard to put down." Go read their review.

SAVE $80: The Garmin Venu Sq smartwatch (GPS, light gold and white) is just $119.99 at Amazon, down from the typical price of $199.99. That's a 40% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin Venu Sq (GPS, light gold and white) $119.99 at Amazon (save $80) Get Deal

Does your smartwatch need to be recharged every night? Does the clunky design clash with your sleek style? If you've been looking for a sophisticated smartwatch without sacrificing on functionality, today's deal at Amazon is a calling your name.

As of Jan. 24, the Garmin Venu Sq (GPS, light gold with white) is just $119.99 at Amazon, down from the normal price of $199.99. That's an $80 savings or a 40% discount.

With a bright color display, the Garmin Venu Sq is ready to keep up with your daily activities. You'll be able to stay connected to texts and emails while keeping tabs on health and fitness stats. The Garmin Venu Sq comes with over 20 preloaded sports apps for easier tracking. Plus, if you're running errands instead of hitting the track, use Garmin Pay for simple contactless payments.

SEE ALSO: All the best smartwatches for every wrist and interest

The Venu Sq goes further than just tracking steps by giving users a daily body battery score, tracking stress, and it comes with a pulse oximeter sensor. You can also use the watch to keep track of hydration and monitor sleep quality.

In smartwatch mode, the Garmin Venu Sq can last up to six days on one charge and up to 14 hours in GPS mode. If your current smartwatch doesn't live up to these stats, today's deal is a sign that it's time to upgrade to the Garmin Venu Sq.

If you were to listen to In the Know, the fake radio show at the heart of Peacock's new sitcom of the same name, you would have a tough time separating it from NPR staples like Fresh Air and All Things Considered. At least, at first.

To start, you'd be lured in by the classic radio voice of host Lauren Caspian (voiced by Zach Woods), jazzy musical cues, and the promise of high-profile guests like Mike Tyson, Roxane Gay, and Ken Burns. But then you'd notice that things are... off. Why does Lauren keep bringing his highly embarrassing personal life into the conversation? Why do all the guests seem to hate him? And why is Lauren a puppet, while the interviewees are real humans? With these questions and more, In the Know lifts a funhouse mirror up to public radio in a way that is equal parts loving and satirical.

SEE ALSO: Should you sign up for Peacock? What is In the Know about? Credit: Peacock

Created by Mike Judge (Beavis and Butt-Head, King of the Hill), Brandon Gardner, and Woods, In the Know takes us behind the scenes of its titular program. There, a staff of stop-motion puppets work their carefully hand-made butts off bringing In the Know to all 30 thousand of its NPR listeners.

Said team can basically be divided into three camps. There's Lauren and fact checker Fabian (voiced by Caitlin Reilly), aspiring do-gooders whose activism often reads as more performative than genuine. They constantly butt heads with each other and with executive producer Barb (voiced by J. Smith-Cameron) and audio engineer Carl (voiced by Carl Tart), the show's weary voices of reason. Then there's oddball cultural critic Sandy (voiced by Judge) and frat bro intern Chase (voiced by Charlie Bushnell), two outsiders who develop an unlikely rapport. Together, these six weather all the crises office life and public radio can throw at them, from fundraising drives to choosing a new safety rep.

In the Know gets better as it gets weirder. Credit: Peacock

In the Know is in large part a send-up of public radio-loving liberals, but the satire can be hit or miss. The best of it comes through in In the Know's interviews, which are interspersed throughout each episode. These segments see Lauren chatting with real-life human celebrities over video, including Norah Jones, Jonathan Van Ness, and Kaia Gerber. The improvised conversations garner some of the show's biggest laughs (watch Gerber struggle to keep a straight face while Lauren rants about the male gaze) and its most interesting commentary, as Lauren's hypocrisy and self-centered desire to be perceived as the perfect person and ally tends to encroach on the very voices he wants to uplift.

The weaker satire often falls to Fabian, whose tirades on gender, conformity, and being "neuro-sensitive" come across as a conservative's caricature of a very online leftist. At least she gets somewhat more complicated over the course of Season 1's first six episodes. Some characters, like Chase, unfortunately remain mostly one-note.

However, In the Know really comes into its own as it allows itself to stray away from obvious satire and into stranger territory. In one episode, a rumor arises that Lauren's voice makes people physically ill. In another, a trip to a chair store becomes an opportunity for self-discovery. While not explicitly leaning on buzzy, discourse-worthy terms in the way Fabian and Lauren usually do, these segments still have a lot to say about things like our work-life balance, online echo chambers and conspiracy theories, and more.

In the Know is an animated treat. Credit: Peacock

The weirder In the Know gets, the more opportunities animation studio ShadowMachine (Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio) has to show off its impressive work. Every aspect of In the Know's offices and staff is beautifully crafted and lived-in, from the recording booth right down to the cozy sweaters everyone wears. The puppets' expressiveness holds its own against the human guests, their physicality making sure a joke lands or enhancing any deliciously awkward interview moments.

In the Know is worth a watch based on the craft alone, but overall the show makes for a fun, offbeat stylistic experiment. Between the blending of stop-motion and real life and the improvised format of the interviews, you'll find plenty of strange surprises. And although six episodes doesn't give us much time with these characters, there's definitely potential for more bizarro sitcom greatness ahead.

In the Know hits Peacock Jan. 25.

TL;DR: The second season of The Traitors UK will be available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer. Anyone from around the world can access this streaming service with ExpressVPN.

We were all treated to some pretty special TV in 2023, but for juicy drama on an almost daily basis, it was difficult to beat the first season of The Traitors UK.

Well it's back. And we can't wait to see how things unfold. The concept is great, and you just know that everything is going to start falling apart after a few days. We love the drama.

If you want to watch the second season of The Traitors UK for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is The Traitors available to watch?

The second season of The Traitors UK premiered on BBC One at 9 p.m. GMT on Jan. 3. Subsequent episodes will air on BBC One at the same time every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Alternatively, you can stream everything for free on BBC iPlayer.

How to watch The Traitors for free

You can watch the second season of The Traitors UK for free on BBC One, with free streaming available on BBC iPlayer.

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

Access BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Visit BBC iPlayer

5. Steam the second season of The Traitors UK for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) £82.82 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to BBC iPlayer without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to stream the second season of The Traitors UK before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?

ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 94 countries including the UK

• 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

• Up to five simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £82.82 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Stream The Traitors UK for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

SAVE 25%: As of Jan. 23, the Theragun mini (1st gen) is just $149.99 at Best Buy, down from the original price of $199.99. That's a $50 discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Therabody Theragun mini (1st gen) $149.99 at Best Buy (save $50) Get Deal

If January has brought more trips to the gym or the track, your muscles might be yelling out for some relief. While going for weekly massages can be incredible, it's less friendly on the wallet. Instead, grab today's deal on a portable massager to calm sore muscles.

As of Jan. 23, get the Therabody Theragun mini (1st gen) for just $149.99 at Best Buy, down from the normal price of $199.99. You'll save 25% thanks to this deal.

SEE ALSO: The Fitbit Inspire 3 is the budget-friendly fitness tracker of our dreams

Weighing under 1.5 pounds, the Theragun mini is your portable percussive massage friend. The ergonomically designed grip handle makes for easier use while you're navigating between the three speeds (1750, 2100, and 2400 ppm). It also comes with a soft carrying case so traveling with the Theragun is easier, whether you keep it in your gym bag or pack it along on a vacation that'll include hiking.

Expect to get about 150 minutes of percussive massage on one charge with the Theragun mini. The included power adapter will bring you back to full charge.

Relax those sore muscles thanks to today's deal on the Theragun mini. For just $149.99, you can utilize muscle pain relief anywhere your adventures take you.

TWO FREE KINDLE BOOKS: Amazon Prime members can dive into two new Kindle reads for free this January with Amazon First Reads. Non-Prime members can grab two Kindle books for $1.99 each.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Two Kindle books Free for Prime members, $1.99 each for non-Prime members Get Deal

Looking for your next page-turner? Amazon's First Reads program offers shoppers early access to new books across multiple genres. Plus, Prime members get special discounts on a curated selection of Kindle books. (Amazon Prime is $14.99 per month or $139 annually, but you can get a 30-day free trial to see if it's worth the investment for you).

SEE ALSO: How to cancel your Amazon Prime membership

This month, Prime members can get their hands on two free Kindle books from various bestselling titles. From thrilling mysteries to heartwarming romances, this Prime perk offers something for every reader to enjoy. Non-Prime members can also take advantage of the First Reads program but will have to shell out $1.99 for each book. (Still a great deal, tbh.)

If you're a Kindle Unlimited member, you can borrow Amazon First Reads books for free and add them to your reading library at no additional cost.

It's free to sign up for the program, and Prime members can enjoy the added benefit of saving money on ebooks throughout the year. Once you sign up, you'll receive a once-a-month email announcing the latest Amazon First Reads picks. And, that's it! Then you can start reading on any compatible Kindle device or via the Kindle app.

SAVE $275.01: The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 (256GB, beige) is just $644.98 at Amazon, marked down from the normal price of $919.99. That's a 30% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 (256GB, beige) $644.98 at Amazon (save $275.01) Get Deal

Some tasks deserve more than a cellphone screen but don't warrant sitting down at the desk in front of your computer. If you stream shows while relaxing in bed or want to sketch on a Sunday afternoon from the comfy couch, you'll want a trusted tablet with a top-of-the-line display. If that sounds like you, tune in for this deal.

As of Jan. 24, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 (256GB, beige) is just $644.98 at Amazon, down from its normal price of $919.99. That's a 30% discount or a savings of $275.01. To score this deal, select the beige colorway with 256GB of storage space. This sale price brings it down to the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: Score Amazon Fire tablets for all-time low prices, plus more tablet deals

Unlike some tablets on the market, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 won't let you down when it comes to display quality. The S9's 11-inch screen boasts Dynamic AMOLED 2X, so you're in for a treat in terms of color, contrast, and clarity. This could be especially handy when using the tablet with the included S Pen while sketching away the afternoon. The S Pen can also be perfect for students taking notes while reading textbooks or for marking up a PDF while working.

With 256GB of storage, you'll be able to download shows, apps, and audiobooks. Amazon also has the smaller 128GB model on sale, but it costs $699, so you'd be paying more for less storage.

Another highlight of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip which is Samsung's most powerful tablet processor. Mashable's review of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ mentions the S9 is a better option for serious tablet users. Plus, the 11-inch screen of the Tab S9 means you can attach a keyboard and have a legitimate laptop-like workstation.

If your life is calling for the versatility and portability of a tablet, today's deal on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is your sign that it's time to make the upgrade.

There's no other non-existing product we've heard more rumors about than the Apple Car.

In 2016, following two years of vaporous reports, we heard that the fabled vehicle was being built in Germany, with a potential launch date in 2019 at the earliest. In 2017, all the signs pointed to the project being abandoned. In 2018, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said Apple plans to launch the Apple Car between 2023 and 2025. In 2019, Apple laid off 200 employees from its autonomous vehicle group, once again indicating that the mythical vehicle will not see the light of day any time soon. There were many more reports like these over the years, but the pattern was obvious: Apple probably is working on something, but it keeps being postponed into the indefinite future.

The latest report on the Apple Car, coming from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, has both bad and good news for anyone wishing for a people mover with an Apple logo.

According to the report, Apple has once again grown serious about building the Apple Car, with project head Kevin Lynch, CEO Tim Cook, and Apple's board discussing it in a series of meetings. The outcome of those meetings was a strategy to build an electric vehicle with Level 2+ autonomy (roughly on par with Tesla's Autopilot right now), and launch it in 2028 at the earliest.

There are two main takeaways from the report. One is that the car doesn't sound all that futuristic; the report does say that the company hopes to upgrade it to Level 4 autonomy (nearly fully autonomous driving) sometime after launch, but other than that, it sounds like a pretty regular electric car. Earlier rumors suggested a fully autonomous vehicle that might not even have a steering wheel. As Gurman puts it, Apple hopes "to make the car stand out with a sleek design, safety systems and unique user interface."

SEE ALSO: In-store Apple Vision Pro demos: What to expect when you walk in

The other important tidbit is the launch date, which is four years in the future at the earliest. A lot can happen between now and then; for example, Apple rival Xiaomi recently launched an EV which might be in its second or third iteration by 2028. However, judging by this latest report, at least it seems that this time there will be no more delays: Either the car happens in 2028, or the company will scrap it altogether.

The report also mentions the potential price range for the Apple Car, and it's an eye-watering $100,000. Start saving now, maybe.

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: NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for January 24 SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for January 24

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024:

AcrossCoffee and Coca-Cola, on the pH scale

• The answer is acids.

Daybreak

• The answer is sunup.

Dwarf planet that's only about half the width of the United States

• The answer is pluto.

Bit of web traffic

• The answer is click.

___ crow flies (directly)

• The answer is asthe.

DownPet adoption org.

• The answer is ASPCA.

Selects from a large group

• The answer is culls.

Indigenous people of the Arctic

• The answer is Inuit.

Language in Amsterdam

• The answer is Dutch.

Thin rod on a bicycle wheel

• The answer is spoke.

Palworld instantly exploded in popularity upon its early access launch. Widely described as "Pokémon with guns," the video game reportedly sold 5 million copies in just three days and surpassed 1.5 million concurrent players on Steam, taking third place for most simultaneous players of all time.

Unfortunately, Palworld's meteoric rise has not come without controversy, and not all of it concerns the game's premise of Pokémon dupes wielding shotguns. Palworld's overwhelming success has been overshadowed by accusations of art theft and plagiarism, which have dominated the conversation about the game since its Jan. 18 release.

SEE ALSO: 4 really weird things you can do in 'Palworld' What is Palworld?

Palworld is Pokémon with guns. That’s it. That’s the game.

Created by Japanese developer Pocket Pair, Palworld is an open world survival game in which players gather resources, build bases, manage their hunger, and fight off enemies — all common concerns of the genre.

However, one unique feature has catapulted Palworld to the internet's attention: Pals, the cute, unmistakably Pokémon-esque creatures the game allows you to recruit. Players can fight these not-Pokémon in order to weaken and catch them using "Pal Spheres," with over 100 of the creatures to collect. They can then be utilised for a myriad of useful purposes, such as mounts, in battle, and to help with various tasks.

Also, you can give your Pals guns.

Palworld's survival elements already do a lot to separate it even from open world Pokémon game Scarlet and Violet. You can reportedly even eat your Pals, an option that is largely left unexplored in the world of Pokémon. But what has really captured gamers' attention is Palworld's enthusiastic inclusion of surprisingly realistic-looking firearms — weapons which you probably wouldn't expect if this were a Nintendo-sanctioned Pokémon game. 

To be clear, Palworld is not a Pokémon game, and has no affiliation with Nintendo. Pocket Pair has claimed that Palworld is more heavily inspired by 2015 survival game Ark: Survival Evolved than Pokémon, and that they in fact tried to distinguish it from the latter. Still, it's practically impossible not to see the similarities.

What is the controversy around Palworld?

Palworld already received mixed reactions when it was first revealed in 2021. Though some gamers were excited by the silliness of having such unexpectedly mature themes in a Pokémon-like game, others expressed disapproval for Palworld's combination of gun violence and ostensibly child-friendly imagery. Palworld's clear similarities to Pokémon and apparent themes of animal cruelty also made several gamers believe the trailer was a joke, or interpret it as an immature attempt to be edgy.

These concerns haven't dissipated now that players can explore Palworld for themselves. In fact, Palworld's early access release has brought such controversies back to the fore — alongside other issues.

Accusations of plagiarising Pokémon

Gamers have accused Pocket Pair of outright plagiarising from Pokémon, taking to social media to highlight the numerous parallels in their creatures' designs. Many of Palworld's Pals bear a striking resemblance to various Pokémon, sharing similar features, colouring, and builds. 

This would already be enough to make Pokémon fans start asking questions. Though Pocket Pair claims that it drew inspiration from roleplaying series Dragon Quest, viewing Pals and Pokémon side by side makes it seem reasonable to wonder whether Palworld was also influenced by its more famous pocket monster predecessors.

Tweet may have been deleted

Still, these similarities aren't necessarily nefarious on the face of it. What appears much more damning are Palworld's models.

Twitter/X user @byofrog directly compared Palworld's assets to those from Pokémon and concluded that many of the former's 3D mesh models had been taken from the latter and merely tweaked or edited. Various game developers have agreed with @byofrog's assessment upon viewing their comparisons, stating that the models are too much alike for it to be a coincidence.

"To 'accidentally' create a complex model mesh with so near-exact proportions is practically impossible," game designer Eric Covington wrote on Twitter/X. "To repeat that improbability throughout your roster… doesn’t pass the sniff test."

"I have no issue with them broadly copying pokemon's design vibe for parody reasons," posted concept artist RJ Palmer. "Its just when they are actually kitbashing their model rips that it gets kinda icky."

SEE ALSO: Yes, 'Pokémon' is looking into 'Palworld'

The Pokémon Company is well aware of Palworld, issuing a statement declaring the company is investigating "another company’s game" and that it will "address any acts that infringe on intellectual property rights". Nintendo is aware of Palworld, but hasn't yet issued any official response — though the company reportedly issued a DMCA takedown for a Palworld Pokémon mod.

Mashable has reached out to Pocket Pair with questions about the art, and we will update this article if we receive a response.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Accusations of using AI art

Pocket Pair has further been accused of using AI to design their Pals, though the evidence to support this is largely circumstantial. 

Suspicions were raised not only due to the similarities between Pals and Pokémon, but also because of Pocket Pair CEO Takuro Mizobe's public appreciation of AI. Critics have resurfaced several old X/Twitter posts in which Mizobe apparently admired fake AI-generated Pokémon and expressed enthusiasm for the future development of games using generative AI technology.

Pocket Pair has also used AI in its games before, making it the main theme of its party game AI: Art Imposter. Released to early access in 2022, AI: Art Imposter is transparent about its use of AI, requiring players to generate images themselves. Even so, it demonstrates that the developer isn't adverse to using such technology in its games.

None of this is a smoking gun, and there's still more than enough room for doubt when it comes to Palworld's potential use of AI. While generative AI has been around for several years, it was significantly less common or widely used when Palworld's first trailer was revealed three years ago. 

Still, there's enough suspicion and speculation circulating to make many gamers feel uneasy. 

Credit: Pocket Pair Do not harass game developers

But wait, it gets worse. Unfortunately, some gamers have reportedly jumped from expressing valid criticism for Palworld to directly attacking its developers online. The situation even deteriorated enough that Mizobe took to X/Twitter to address it.

"Currently, we are receiving slanderous comments against our artists, and we are seeing tweets that appear to be death threats," Mizobe wrote, translated from Japanese via Google Translate. "I have received a variety of opinions regarding Palworld, but all productions related to Palworld are supervised by multiple people, including myself, and I am responsible for the production. I would appreciate it if you would refrain from slandering the artists involved in Palworld."

@byofrog, who has also been critical of Palworld for "[glorifying] animal abuse," asked people not to pile on the developers as well.

"I hope this is obvious to all of you but PLEASE don't harass the modeler from Palworld," they posted. "Even if they did steal assets, which is NOT a proven fact, it's not a crime to threaten someone over."

Remember, it's fine to discuss apparent art theft and call for it to be investigated. It isn't fine to attack and threaten people, regardless of whether you believe they're guilty of plagiarism.

Where can you play Palworld?

Palworld is currently available early access on PC via Steam, and will currently set you back $26.99. You can also pick up a preview on Xbox One and Series X/S for $29.99, or play it using an Xbox Game Pass subscription.

If you’re struggling to choose between the platforms, the Xbox version is reportedly missing several assets and features. This includes 32-player dedicated servers, as well as the ability to name your character.

It’s important to be aware that the Palworld is still in early access, meaning it hasn’t been finished yet. As always, you should only purchase an early access game if you’re happy to accept it as is, as there’s no guarantee it will improve or be updated at all. It’s a bit like getting married in that regard.

Still, all this may not matter if Nintendo does decide to pursue legal action against Pocket Pair, which could potentially force Palworld to shut down entirely. 

Netflix has gone and done it: the streaming company is axing its cheapest ad-free subscription plan.

The tier, which costs $11.99 a month, will soon be unavailable to users in Canada and the UK within the second quarter of the year. Company executives informed shareholders of the decision in its earnings report dated January 23.

SEE ALSO: Netflix signs deal with WWE to exclusively stream live weekly 'Raw'

Subscribers will be left with the platform's other ad-free plan, which is priced at $15.49/month. The company's Premium tier is priced at $22.99/month. Others can opt for an ad-supported subscription at $6.99/month.

Following Canada and the UK, the plan will likely be retired in other places: "We’re looking to retire our Basic plan in some of our ads countries, starting with Canada and the UK in Q2 and taking it from there," reads the report.

Netflix's plans to phase out its basic plan has been in the works for a while now. New viewers in Canada were unable to sign up for the Basic plan as of June 2023, with the same being applied to the US and UK by July.

The company's co-CEO Greg Peters told investors in a video interview that Netflix's ad-supported tier is at 23 million monthly active users. During the final quarter of 2023, Netflix also added 13.1 million subscribers, elevating their subscription numbers to 247 million globally.

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

Dating as a senior isn't easy, but it's not nearly as tough as you think. Dating at any age is tricky — and being over 60 in the dating world could actually have its perks. There's a reason why post-retirement age could be the happiest time of your life.

Yes, there may be fewer potential partners in the dating pool, but if you think about it, that just makes everything less overwhelming. And now that online dating is hot and heavy for the over 60 crowd, it's easier than ever to track down that special someone.

It's totally normal to feel hesitant about making the jump to online dating, but there really isn't anything to fear.

How do you start dating again as a senior?

The first step to start dating after a break is simply acknowledging that you're ready. At this point, you can decide how and where you want to try to meet people. Dating apps have been around for decades, which means they are totally normal and shouldn't be a last resort.

You'll also want to be direct with what you're hoping to achieve. A serious relationship? Casual hookup? Friendship that might led to more? Whatever it is, be upfront because you don't want to fall for someone who isn't looking for the same thing. Honesty is the best policy when it comes to dating.

Should older adults use dating sites?

Finding the best dating site is intimidating at any age. That age group does have a few more options, which may be another reason that you're feeling unsure about online dating if you're a baby boomer.

However, youth has a disadvantage you may not have considered: Many people in their 20s and 30s just aren't ready to settle down yet. Developing a crush on someone is more likely to end up in an awkward "situation-ship" rather than a serious relationship. Dating over 60 means you're at an age when you know what you want and you're not afraid to put it all out there. This is the "no bullshitting" age of dating.

SEE ALSO: The best dating sites and apps for women

As you get older, you realise what's important to you and what you're truly looking for. Doesn't finding love with that mindset sound a hell of a lot easier? EliteSingle's senior dating blog notes that most older individuals realise that life is just too short to play games, and that older people take dating much more seriously than they did 40 years ago. And while it may be a little weird that this person isn't your first love, you can take solace in the fact that it could be lasting love.

Does all this seriousness mean that the excitement from meeting someone new is gone when dating as a senior? Absolutely not. An advice post for seniors on Zoosk says to "be prepared to return to your inner teenager," because the firsts are just as exciting. You'll get butterflies, wait for them call and do a happy dance when they do, and first kisses will be just as tingly.

Should you use free dating apps?

There are a lot of free dating sites and apps out there, and the likes of Tinder and Hinge are good examples of free apps with massive networks of users. The bad news is that a lot of free apps simply don't cut it. You get what you pay for with dating sites and apps, and for the best experience with the greatest possibility of finding exactly what you're looking for, you are going to have to cough up the cash.

You can still find something worth your time with a free app, but if you're looking for compatibility tests, chat rooms, videos, and a greater level of control, we recommend upgrading. Paid sites provide access to premium features that give you the best chance of finding something special.

What is the best dating site for seniors?

We scoured the internet to find the best dating sites for single seniors. Some websites are for all ages with a senior option, and some sites are specifically for people over 50. And we'll just tell you now: All of the sites have free memberships, but to get the real in-depth features to find real connections with other mature singles, you'll want to have a paid account.

We've noted those price differences, as well as the differences in sign up, navigation simplicity, and the overall relationship tone of the site to help you choose the best one to fit you. Take your pick from this strong selection of dating sites for seniors, including popular services like SilverSingles, Match, and eharmony.

These are the best dating sites for seniors in 2024.

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

Dating can be tricky. Sometimes you want to make the first move, but you don't want to appear too eager. But if you play it too cool, you risk getting ignored all together. The whole process can be frustrating and intimidating, especially if you don't know how to start. If you're lost, we recommend trying online dating.

There are a lot of great sites out there that can help you find someone special. The only really issue is that with all of the options, it can sometimes feel like there's too much choice. Throw in busy lives and daily responsibilities, and the thought of combing through loads of profiles sounds like the last thing you want to do. 

We get it, we really do.

Is online dating difficult?

One aspect of online dating dynamics poses a challenge for both men and women, but from different angles: If it's a lady you're pursuing, chances are she's received more than a few unsolicited messages already. For women, maneuvering around creeps is often more work than it's worth.

For men, the responsibility to not be one of those guys can add a heightened intimidation factor.

What do you need to know before signing up to a dating site?

The internet is plagued with tales of nasty messages and creepy opening lines from men. Avoiding the creep factor with someone you just matched with shouldn't be hard — simply don't be pushy about sexting, getting their number, or meeting up, and definitely don't harass someone about not wanting to hang out. As for devising an opener that will grow into a nice conversation, the harmless intent to be funny or flattering can go south quickly. Choosing the right dating app can make all the difference for men who are a little rusty or generally shy about messaging first.

SEE ALSO: The best dating sites and apps for women

For men who need a point in the right direction when it comes to conversation starters, dating sites with user profiles more extensive than a rushed Tinder bio could make a world of difference. The ability to see someone's hobbies, favourite movies, career goals, or even political views before even talking to them opens up a wealth of clever ice breakers.

Tinder can be the right app for some singles, but if you find yourself constantly deleting it and re-downloading Tinder every other month despite the fact that you hate the app, a different site might make better use of your time. What is it that's not working about your current dating site of choice? Is it too entrenched in hookup culture? Is it not focused on hookups enough? Do you find yourself getting intentions mixed up with people who aren't looking for the same thing? Each dating site serves a different purpose, and things are a lot easier when you're mingling with people who want what you want.

What is the best dating site for men?

After going through many dating sites and apps, we have narrowed down the best options for single men looking for something casual or a long-term relationship. You can rest assured that these sites offer the best potential for finding a great match.

We looked at a number of factors that make a dating app worth using, including visibility, popularity with singles, ease of use, lifestyle, and success rate with matches to find the ones that matter to single men the most. Whether you're looking for a casual fling or a committed relationship, we have a dating site for you and the matches you want. 

These are the best dating sites for men in 2024.

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

The online world isn't always the friendliest of places for women, particularly when it comes to trolling and misogyny on social media. From Twitter reply guys, to other forms of online harassment, to straight up cyberstalking, letting women exist in peace seems to be a hard concept to grasp.

When it comes to dating apps specifically — where others often assume that a dating app profile means that one is willfully subjecting themselves to creepy comments — the chance of women enduring such unsettling experiences feels doubled. The onslaught of men grasping at straws for attention with messages saying "think they saw you somewhere" or requesting nudes in their opening line is an online dating specialty.

Is it easier to shoot your shot by simply using a hot selfie on your Instagram story as bait for your crush? That's a classic tactic that'll never die. But unless you and said crush are already in some sort of flirtationship and already follow each other on social media, finding love, a hookup, or someone to grab a drink with could happen a lot faster with the right dating app (as opposed to waiting to meet someone at work or agreeing to a blind date).

SEE ALSO: The best dating sites to help you find a connection

This means not deleting and re-downloading Tinder after every breakup or every time you ghost (or get ghosted by) your current entanglement. Tinder can truly be a great place to meet genuine people who are open to getting serious, to find a reliable friend with benefits, or to get a good-old-fashioned confidence boost from a mutual right swipe. But if you're frustrated with horny users disguising themselves as relationship seekers or relationship seekers who can't handle it when you say you're just looking for a hookup, opting for a dating site more finely-tuned to what you're looking for means you'll spend less time dealing with people who aren't looking for the same thing. 

Maybe you can't stand starting every conversation from scratch. Maybe your biggest fear is ending up on a date with someone who doesn't care about cats. Instead of a lazy bio, dating apps that delve into someone's hobbies, favourite movies, career goals, or political views before even talking to them opens up a wealth of clever ice breakers, and ensures that you aren't going into things blindly. 

What are dating apps doing to make dating safer?

Meeting someone from the internet in person for the first time is nerve-wracking for anyone. But for women, it can dredge up the same fear that occurs when walking alone past a big group of men. 

Match Group is making strides toward a safer dating experience: Tinder was the first to unveil new features coming out of its partnership with Noonlight, a safety app that tracks the location of users and notifies authorities if there are concerns. Before heading out on a date, Tinder users can log info about where they're going and who they're meeting, as well as hit a panic button to alert authorities if there's an emergency.

Match Group plans to roll out the same features for its other apps, like Hinge and OkCupid, later. In March 2021, Tinder announced plans to let users run a background check on their matches.

Should you use free dating apps?

There are plenty of free dating sites and apps out there, and the likes of Tinder and Hinge are popular options with massive networks of users. You can easily enter the online dating game without spending anything, but you get what you pay for with dating sites and apps.

For the best experience with the greatest possibility of finding exactly what you're looking for, you are probably going to need to cough up some cash. The best dating sites don't come cheap, and whilst you can still find a hookup with a free app, you should upgrade is you're looking for compatibility tests, chat rooms, videos, and a greater level of control.

What are the best dating sites for women?

Whether you're looking for a fun time or your next long-term relationship, we have picked out a wide range of apps and sites for different types of daters. So whatever you're looking for, we have you covered with this guide.

We have done the tough stuff, looked at all the facts and figures, and worked out which sites are the best options for every single type of woman out there. We have narrowed it down to the best sites, and reviewed the likes of eharmony, Match, Lumen, and AdultFriendFinder for your consideration.

These are the best dating sites for women in 2024.