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Mashable is a leading source for news, information & resources for the Connected Generation. Mashable reports on the importance of digital innovation and how it empowers and inspires people around the world. Mashable's 25 million monthly unique visitors and 10 million social media followers have become one of the most engaged online news communities. Founded in 2005, Mashable is headquartered in New York City with an office in San Francisco.
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FCC bans foreign drones, including DJI. What happens next.

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 17:41

Bah humbug. Just days before Christmas, the U.S. has effectively banned foreign drones, including the most popular drone maker, China-based DJI.

So, what happens next, especially if you already own a DJI drone or have a new one waiting to be unwrapped under the Christmas tree? Here's what we know.

On Monday, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) officially blacklisted foreign-made drones and components, which include DJI's drone products. The ban has been looming for a while now, and DJI, which accounts for a whopping 90 percent of the global drone market share, tried to fight it. The drone maker recently agreed to comply with audits in hopes of being removed from the FCC blacklist, but to no avail. DJI drones are now banned with all the others, on the blacklist.

The FCC instituted the ban in the name of national security, claiming foreign drones pose potential threats to the U.S.

"President Trump has been clear that his Administration will act to secure our airspace and unleash American drone dominance," Trump's appointed FCC chair, Brendan Carr, said in a statement.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. What about the DJI drone you already own?

So, where does that leave U.S. consumers who own a DJI drone? These consumers also include many industries that have pushed back on the ban, as drones have become an important tool for everything from law enforcement to agriculture.

According to the FCC, those who already own drones will not be affected by the ban. Consumers in the U.S. can continue to own and operate their DJI drones or any other drones made by companies affected by the blacklist. Additionally, retailers can continue to sell drone models and products from blacklisted companies that have already been approved for sale.

SEE ALSO: Review: Is Insta360's Antigravity A1 drone the DJI replacement we've been hoping for?

In a statement, Carr said that the ban "does not disrupt the ongoing use or purchase of previously authorized drones, and with appropriate avenues for excluding drones that do not pose a risk."

DJI released its own statement on the ban, committing to continue serving the U.S. market under these new regulations while criticizing the process by which they were implemented.

"DJI is disappointed by the Federal Communications Commission’s action today to add foreign‑made drones to the Covered List," the company said. "While DJI was not singled out, no information has been released regarding what information was used by the Executive Branch in reaching its determination."

"DJI products are among the safest and most secure on the market, supported by years of reviews conducted by U.S. government agencies and independent third parties," DJI continued. "Concerns about DJI’s data security have not been grounded in evidence and instead reflect protectionism, contrary to the principles of an open market."

The drone maker also reiterated the FCC's claim that consumers who already own DJI drones will not be affected by the ban and can continue to operate their drones. DJI also expressed hope that its future products will be cleared by the Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security for release in the U.S.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Catch em all with 10% off Pokémon Brilliant Diamond for Switch

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 17:18

SAVE $6: As of Dec. 23, get Pokémon Brilliant Diamond for $53.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $59.99. That's a discount of 10%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Pokémon Brilliant Diamond $53.99 at Amazon
$59.99 Save $6   Get Deal

Looking for a last-minute Nintendo Switch gift or just want to add to your collection? Amazon has your back with this deal on a great Pokémon remake for Nintendo Switch that can arrive as early as today if you hurry and pick yours up.

As of Dec. 23, get Pokémon Brilliant Diamond for $53.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $59.99. That's $6 off and a discount of 10%.

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

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and its companioin game Shining Pearl are remakes of the 2006 Nintendo DS entries Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. They take place in the Sinnoh region and come with a wide variety of then-new Pokémon to capture. These remakes take a different approach to the games, however, with special chibi art and a host of improvements to the originals as well as new content.

These remakes were looked upon fondly when they first debuted, and they're still very much worth adding to your collection, especially if you fancy yourself a big fan of the monster-collecting franchise. You don't need both entries to enjoy the game to the fullest, but keep in mind each game does have its own Legendary monster, with Dialga in Diamond and Palkia in Pearl.

This is a particularly fun Pokémon entry for Switch, so make sure you get it while it's still hot, as the clock is ticking down to the holidays fast.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds are a major 40% off at Amazon and some lucky shoppers will get delivery before Christmas

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 17:12

SAVE $72: The Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds are on sale at Amazon for $107.99, down from the list price of $179.99. That's a 40% discount that matches the record low at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds $107.99 at Amazon
$179.99 Save $72.00   Get Deal

A thoughtful gift that someone will use everyday is hard to come up with. Mashable's gift guides can help, but we have a special recommendation for that someone who is always struggling to get quality sleep. If that's someone on your Christmas shopping list, check out this thoughtful gift that's on sale at Amazon.

As of Dec. 23, the Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds are on sale at Amazon for $107.99, marked down from the list price of $179.99. That's a savings of $72 thanks to the 40% discount. This sale price matches the rarely-seen record low at Amazon. Depending on the delivery address, these might arrive in time for Christmas.

Whether it's a partner snoring, the cat running around, or the neighbor's party, noise is a big sleep disruptor. Putting on a fan or a white noise machine helps some people, but you have another option in sleep earbuds. The Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds are designed to be comfortable enough to wear all night long, even for side sleepers.

Mashable Lead Shopping Reporter Bethany Allard tested out sleep earbuds and found the Soundcore Sleep A20 to be the best option for most people. The earbuds let you stream your own audio or sleep sounds from the Soundcore app. They also track sleep data and come with six different earbud tips.

SEE ALSO: From Oura to Whoop, we tested the best sleep trackers of 2025

Soundcore mentions the Sleep A20 earbuds get about 80 hours of playtime before they'll need to recharge, which means you'll have to recharge about once per week, depending on how much you sleep. And don't worry about sleeping through an alarm — you can set that to play on the earbuds.

While they're back at a record-low price, snatch up the Soundcore Sleep A20 earbuds. Gift them to a loved one who could use some better sleep or buy them for yourself as motivation to get better rest in 2026.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Sonys awesome budget-friendly WH-CH520 headphones are only $38 right now

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 17:05

SAVE $31.99: As of Dec. 23, the Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones are on sale for just $38 at Amazon. That's 46% off their current list price of $69.99 and only $5 shy of their best price ever.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sony Sony WH-CH520 headphones $38 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $31.99   Get Deal

They may be the most basic headphones in Sony's lineup, but the WH-CH520s are still pretty great — especially when they're on sale.

As of Dec. 23, the Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones are down to just $38 from $69.99. That's 46% in savings and only $5 shy of their best price ever on record.

At under $40, these aren't going to match the depth of sound of Sony's WH-1000XM6 headphones, but they're still more impressive than their price tag lets on. As our reviewer noted, the WH-CH520s "surpass expectations by delivering broad connectivity, energetic sound, and longer playtimes than most luxury models."

Standout features include up to 50 hours of battery life, a three-minute fast-charge option, multipoint connectivity, customizable EQ, hands-free calling, and a lightweight design. You can even make your own sound profiles in the app to match the genre you're listening to.

If you don't need all the fancy bells and whistles that come with top-of-the-line headphones, you can save a bunch of money by opting for a more basic pair like the Sony WH-CH520s. As Mashable reviewer Alex Bracetti said, "They are arguably the best headphones under $100, easily the best headphones under $50, and a must-own for budget-conscious shoppers who want affordable Sony cans at a ridiculously low price."

The good news is every color option is currently down to just $38. The bad news is they won't arrive before Christmas.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Is Doctor Doom going after all the super babies in Avengers: Doomsday?

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 17:01

There's still just under a year left before Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters. But based on the film's first teaser, as well as the mid-credits scene of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, it seems like Marvel is already hinting at Doctor Doom's (Robert Downey Jr.) nefarious plans. Forget Infinity Stones, the MCU's next Big Bad is collecting super babies.

SEE ALSO: 'Avengers: Doomsday' teaser reveals the return of Chris Evans as Steve Rogers

Exhibit A: the very first time we see Doctor Doom in the MCU. His introduction comes during one of the post-credits scenes in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, in which he appears in the Fantastic Four's apartments and approaches Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby) and Reed Richards' (Pedro Pascal) child Franklin. By this point, the film has already established that Franklin is a being of immense power, so could Doctor Doom be trying to steal him away from his loving parents to use him for his own plans?

Let's move onto Exhibit B: the teaser trailer for Avengers: Doomsday. Obviously, the biggest reveal here is that Chris Evans will be returning as Steve Rogers. But the teaser unveils another surprise: Steve is now a father.

Avengers: Endgame gave Steve a happy ending, with him remaining in the past and marrying Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell). Because of the seeming finality of that arc, it's going to take something huge to bring him back out of retirement and into the fight against Doctor Doom. Yes, Doctor Doom on his own already seems like a big threat, but you know what would make Steve even angrier and ready to fight? If Doctor Doom took his baby.

The focus on children doesn't stop at Franklin Richards or Steve's baby, though. So much of the MCU post-Avengers: Endgame has been about superpowered kids, from Wanda Maximoff's twins Billy (Julian Hillard and Joe Locke) and Tommy (Jett Klyne) to Miss Marvel's Kamala Khan (Iman Vellani). Post-credits scenes also keep introducing the Avengers' descendants, like Bruce Banner's (Mark Ruffalo) son Skaar (Wil Deusner) and T'Challa's (Chadwick Boseman) son Toussaint (Divine Love Konadu-Sun). Elsewhere, Thor: Love and Thunder villain Gorr's (Christian Bale) whole evil plan involved imprisoning a bunch of children. Could Doctor Doom be treading a similar path in Avengers: Doomsday?

Again, we've got a year until we find out. But until then, I'm nervous for every young character in the MCU. Are they being set up to be part of the MCU's Young Avengers? Or are they just more kidnapping fodder for Doctor Doom?

Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters Dec. 18, 2026.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Find all your lost items in seconds with $10 off the Tile Slim

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 16:26

SAVE $10: As of Dec. 23, get the Tile Slim smart tracker for $19.99, down from its usual price of $29.99, at Amazon. That's a discount of 33%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Tile Slim $19.99 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $10   Get Deal

If you're always losing some of your most important belongings like your wallet or your purse or bag, a smart tracker is a great idea for you. You can just toss one in a card slot, a pocket, or even your car and you'll be able to track down your lost item in minutes. And right now you can get one for a great price at Amazon.

As of Dec. 23, get the Tile Slim smart tracker for $19.99, down from its usual price of $29.99, at Amazon. That's $10 off and a discount of 33%.

SEE ALSO: Grab a 4-pack of AirTags for under $65 and get 'em before Christmas

This slim, card-shaped tracker is the same size as a credit card, only slightly thicker, and you can fit it nto any wallet or other area in which you can fit a card. It's Tile's thinnest tracker yet, and it's perfect for any area you can't really make a traditional tracker like an Apple AirTag fit in.

This tracker works with both iOS and Android though, so you aren't locked to one network if you happen to lose something. When you connect this tracker to your phone, you can have it ring to help you find it or locate it on your phone with special directions via the free app. You can even trigger an SOS alert if needed in an emergency situation.

This handy tracker is a must-have if you find yourself losing all of your things at inopportune times, and it's super affordable. Grab one for yourself or a few and stay on top of your belongings. There's not enough time in life to be stressing over lost items.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Amazon Kindle Scribe is $140 off and itll arrive before Christmas

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 16:19

SAVE $140: The Amazon Kindle Scribe (64GB) is on sale at Amazon for $309.99, down from the list price of $419.99. That's a 31% discount that matches the record low at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Scribe (64GB) $309.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $140   Get Deal

We're getting close to the deadline for Christmas presents arriving on time. But there's no need to freak out if you're a last-minute shopper. Amazon has a nice selection of gifts that will still arrive for the holiday. You'll need to wrap in a hurry, but as long as everything goes to plan, you'll be ready. If one of the most versatile e-readers sounds like a nice gift, there's a great deal in store today.

As of Dec. 23, the Amazon Kindle Scribe (64GB) is on sale at Amazon for $309.99, down from the list price of $419.99. That works out to an awesome savings of $140 from a 31% discount. This sale price matches the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon for this model. This sale price applies to both the Metallic Jade and Tungsten colorways, so check delivery times/dates for both options if you're looking for the quickest possible delivery.

If you or someone on your Christmas shopping list loves to read and journal, the Amazon Kindle Scribe is the perfect model. On Mashable's list of the best Kindles, the Scribe earns top marks as the best option for taking notes. Mashable Shopping Reporter Samantha Mangino wrote, "If, looking through your bookshelf, your books have dog-eared pages, highlighted lines, and scribbles in the margins, your instinct might be that an e-reader isn't for you, but I'd like to introduce you to the Kindle Scribe," she said. "It's the only Kindle with writing capabilities and comes with an included stylus pen that magnetically attaches to the side of the e-reader; it's ready for all your handwritten thoughts."

SEE ALSO: Need a last-minute Christmas gift? The Amazon Kindle Colorsoft is $60 off and it'll arrive before Dec. 25.

Mangino explained the included pen moves across the screen with ease, giving it the feel of writing on paper. In the full review of the Kindle Scribe, it lost some points because of it's $450 price tag, but today's sale that brings it down to $310 gives it much more allure. Plus, the pre-Christmas deliver date is a major bonus.

Focusing on some specs, the Kindle Scribe has a 10.2-inch display, getting up to 94 nits of brightness. Battery life is strong, getting up to 12 weeks before you'll need to recharge and the included premium pen doesn't ever need recharging. But keep in mind that it's not waterproof like some of its other Kindle family members like the Paperwhite.

If you're in a slight panic about shopping for last-minute gifts, rest assured that almost anyone would love the Kindle Scribe. Snag it while it's on sale at Amazon for $309.99 which shaves $140 off the normal price. Get the gift bag ready and you'll have a wonderful Christmas present, good to go.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Kindle Paperwhite is still on sale for the holidays — save $25 while you still can

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 16:15

SAVE $25: As of Dec. 23, the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite is on sale for $134.99 instead of $159.99. That's a savings of 16% or $25 and about $10 shy of its best price ever.

Opens in a new window Credit: Kindle Amazon Kindle Paperwhite $134.99 at Amazon
$159.99 Save $25   Get Deal

Mashable shopping reporter Sam Mangino has tested every Kindle device and the Kindle Paperwhite constantly comes out on top. "It's "as good as an e-reader can get," she writes. Ahead of the big day on Dec. 25, you can pick one up for $10 shy of its best price ever.

As of Dec. 23, the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite is down to $134.99 from its list price of $159.99. That's $25 or 16% in savings. While we did see it drop even lower on Black Friday, this is still a really solid discount — and its second-best price all year.

Though I'm a major fangirl of the basic Kindle (and highly recommend it!), the Kindle Paperwhite is definitely the "better" device on paper. It's the fastest model yet and turns pages without stuttering or slowing down. The vibrant seven-inch display includes adjustable brightness and warmth to make reading in any condition easy on the eyes. And the real kicker is that it's waterproof (unlike the basic Kindle) — a pretty major reason why it lands in the top spot on our best e-reader's list.

Though it's a bit bigger than the basic Kindle, it's still small enough to slide comfortably in a purse. And just like every Kindle device, its battery life is bonkers at about 12 weeks per charge.

Unfortunately, you can only get delivery before Christmas in some locations. But saving $25 justifies waiting an extra day or two in my eyes. Snag the Paperwhite for only $134.99 while this deal is still live.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Apples iOS 26.3 has 2 new features to make the European Commission happy

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 16:13

The European Commission is pleased with Apple's iOS 26.3 – two of its features in particular, that is.

The European Union's watchdog said that two of the features introduced in the iOS 26.3 beta were a result of an EU investigation into Apple's terms for connected devices.

"The DMA creates new opportunities for developers to bring to market innovative products and services in Europe. This is another step towards a more inter-connected digital ecosystem to the benefit of all EU citizens,” an EC spokesperson told the Wall Street Journal.

One of the two features in question is Notification Forwarding for third-party smartwatches, which we've covered here.

The other feature the EC probably refers to is Proximity pairing, allowing users of iOS devices to easily pair with third-party devices, similarly to how you pair AirPods to your iPhone.

There's also a feature called Transfer to Android, allowing users to transfer their data to an Android device in an easier way.

SEE ALSO: Apple's iPhone Fold isn't even announced yet, and Samsung might already be working on a competitor

I can't remember when a new version of iOS was this focused on compliance with European rules. All three new features have to do with Europe's Digital Market Act (DMA), which Apple isn't very happy about.

All of these new features will only be available for customers in the European Union. Apple's iOS 26.34 is currently in beta, and will probably become available in January.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Avengers: Doomsday teaser reveals the return of Chris Evans as Steve Rogers

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 16:11

Marvel Studios keeps bringing back the actors it sent off in Avengers: Endgame — and I'm not just talking about Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom.

Instead, I'm talking about Chris Evans as Captain America/Steve Rogers.

SEE ALSO: Is Doctor Doom going after all the super babies in 'Avengers: Doomsday'?

The teaser trailer for the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday puts Steve front and center, revealing what's been going on in his life since the end of Avengers: Endgame. In that film, following the return of the Infinity Stones, Steve stayed in the past and married Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell). He grew old and, in the present, passed his shield and the title of Captain America to Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie).

However, based on the Avengers: Doomsday teaser, it's clear that that wasn't really the end of his story.

The teaser sees Steve returning to the home he shares with Peggy, then cradling his newborn child. Cute, right? Well, it's less cute than it is foreboding, because what in the world is going to happen to Peggy and that child to bring Steve out of retirement and into the fight against Doctor Doom? Remember how Doctor Doom was creeping on Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal) and Sue Storm's (Vanessa Kirby) baby Franklin at the end of The Fantastic Four: First Steps? What if he's coming after all the super babies?

In addition to Downey Jr. and Evans, Avengers: Doomsday also stars (deep breath) Chris Hemsworth, Kirby, Pascal, Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Letitia Wright, Paul Rudd, Wyatt Russell, Tenoch Huerta Mejía, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Simu Liu, Florence Pugh, Kelsey Grammer, Lewis Pullman, Danny Ramirez, Joseph Quinn, David Harbour, Winston Duke, Hannah John-Kamen, Tom Hiddleston, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Alan Cumming, Rebecca Romijn, James Marsden, and Channing Tatum.

Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters Dec. 18, 2026.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to survive holiday triggers and nail your New Year’s quitting goals

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 16:02

If you’re one of the 67 percent of Gen Zers (ages 18-24) currently using nicotine who are planning to quit for the New Year, you might be freaking out right about now. Between gift-hunting and dealing with your extended family and all the other chaos that generally flares up this time of year, you might even find yourself wanting to reach for the vape more than you usually do. All the more reason to stay on track with quitting, even with your halls fully decked.

Many e-cigarette, vape, or pouch users may reach for nicotine in order to deal with stress, anxiety, and depression. But according to the nonprofit public-health organization Truth Initiative, nicotine can actually make your symptoms worse. That’s right, worse. 

Findings from a meta-analysis of 26 studies have shown that quitting nicotine is associated with lower levels of stress, as well as an improved mood, which is something we could all use more of this time of year. A Truth Initiative survey has also shown that a whopping 90 percent of vapers who quit reported feeling less anxious and depressed.

But surviving the holidays and sticking to your New Year’s resolutions is hard, especially when vapes are being engineered to keep you using. Truth Initiative research shows that between 2017 and 2022, disposable e-cigarettes have nearly tripled in nicotine strength — making them more potent — and they have more puffs per device and are cheaper. Over 75 percent of teens who vape use their device within 30 minutes of waking up, a key sign of growing nicotine dependence.

The good news is that you don’t have to white-knuckle it this year. While only three to five percent of people quit for longer than six months using the ‘cold turkey’ approach, counseling and medication can more than triple your chances of quitting for good. 

Additionally, Truth Initiative has proven and free resources to help keep your quitting resolutions on track. EX Program, featured in their national campaign, Outsmart Nicotine, offers a solution loaded with digital tools and both expert and peer support to help you put the vape down for good.

Opens in a new window Credit: Truth Initiative EX Program A science-based approach to quitting nicotine Learn More Tap into a free digital support network

EX Program is a comprehensive digital resource developed by Truth Initiative with the experts at the Mayo Clinic. It isn’t a generic one-size-fits-all quitting program, it’s designed to meet the unique challenges faced by Gen Z. Research published in JAMA Internal Medicine has shown that using EX Program can increase your odds of quitting nicotine by up to 40 percent. As an added bonus, if you’re thinking about quitting cannabis, a new study has shown that EX Program can help you with that, too. 

Sign up and you’ll get a tailored quit plan and a suite of digital tools that you can access 24/7. In addition to receiving expert tips and strategies to help you quit, you’ll also get interactive texts from quitting experts and other quitters just like you who have gone through the process and know what it’s like. Whether you engage — or just lurk and learn — EX Program is an anonymous, safe space that’s got your back. And it’s free. 

Change your old patterns

In order to quit for good, you’ll need to break a physical addiction, which isn’t an easy feat. Thankfully, EX Program’s daily texts and expert resources can help you identify your personal triggers, cope with cravings, and replace your old routines with healthier ones. All you have to do to start is text DITCHIT to 88709.

Take exercise, for example. Something as simple as doing a few jumping jacks every morning or taking your pup on a walk can do wonders for your head — and boost those endorphins and dopamine. Playing games can also provide a fun distraction. Whenever you feel triggered, you can do something fun to help crush the nicotine cravings. Go ahead, put on your headphones and bust a move.

If you thought the holidays were a bad time to outsmart nicotine, they might actually be one of the best times ever. Regardless, remember that Truth Initiative has loads of proven digital tools designed to help you quit — and stay quit.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Best fitness tech of 2025

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 15:50

From smart watches to smart mirrors, technology has taken over the fitness industry with as much verve as it has taken over every other industry. And, in some cases, it's made it easier to train, lift, stretch, run, sleep, rest, and reset every day in 2025.

This year, Mashable tested a lot — and I mean a lot — of fitness tech. I trained for and ran the New York City Marathon with seven fitness trackers. We tried all the smart rings including, and beyond, the Oura ring. We tried every sleep tracker we could get our hands on and put every pair of headphones we could find in our ears for a good workout. We tested the fitness mirrors, and we built out tech-forward home gyms.

Here are four of the best bits of fitness tech from 2025.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 Apple Watch Ultra 3 (GPS, Cellular, 49mm, Black Ocean Band) $779.99 at Amazon
Apple Watch Ultra 3 Shop Now at Amazon

The Apple Watch Ultra 3, released in September, was one of my favorite trackers I tested while training for, and especially running, the New York City Marathon. Its screen is massive, which can be annoying for daily wear, but rules for trying to read metrics during a workout. The battery life is significantly improved over its predecessors, and it's surprisingly comfortable.

While the workout metrics are straightforward, they're also very reliable. If you're looking for fitness tech that also doubles as lifestyle tech, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is the way to go.

The Whoop MG Whoop MG $359 at Best Buy
Whoop MG Shop Now at Best Buy

The Whoop MG 5.0, released in May 2025, was rated the best sleep tracker by Mashable's Samantha Mangino, who noted that while there's a lot of data a sleepmaxxer might not be into, it's remarkably comfortable and is "best for someone who wants to be told what to do regarding sleep."

Anyone who wants to prioritize their fitness knows that sleep is the number one thing you can do to make your workouts go the extra mile. I wore the Whoop during my marathon journey and found that its tracking is elite for other athletic endeavors as well, such as indicating how strong your body battery is and providing recommendations for enhancing your recovery.

It doesn't have a screen, so there's no GPS or heart rate feedback data during workouts, but that also means there's no annoying text notifications while you're hanging out with family.

While the subscription model is financially frustrating, Whoop’s depth of recovery data makes it arguably one of the best tools for understanding your body.

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 $199.95 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $50.04 Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 See It at Amazon

These headphones, released in February, were reviewed by Mashable's Samantha Mangino and Alex Bracetti as the top headphones for working out. The duo said these are "best for fitness users who want the most boxes checked." The controls are accessible, there's convenient multi-platform support, they're durable, have engaging sound and noise cancellation, are comfortable and fit well, and offer long playtimes.

Strava

Simply a lovely app to track workouts and talk about them with friends. Nothing about Strava is particularly new for 2025, but its integration with fitness trackers works seamlessly, and you really can't get mad at its dedication to consistency.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 23, 2025

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 13:23

The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult to solve if you love German food.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. 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 today's 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?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for December 23, 2025 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

  • Yellow: Weaknesses

  • Green: Philosophical ideas

  • Blue: Superheroes wear them

  • Purple: Meaty snacks

Here are today's Connections categories

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

  • Yellow: Vulnerability

  • Green: Freudian concepts

  • Blue: Characters in capes

  • Purple: Starting with slang for sausage

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 #926 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Vulnerability: ACHILLES' HEEL, DOWNFALL, KRYPTONITE, SOFT SPOT

  • Freudian concepts: FIXATION, OEDIPUS COMPLEX, SUPEREGO, UNCONSCIOUS

  • Characters in capes: DARTH VADER, DRACULA, LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD, SUPERMAN

  • Starting with slang for sausage: BRATZ, DOGMA, FRANKENSTEIN, LINKLATER

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 23, 2025

Are you also playing NYT Strands? Get all the Strands hints you need for today's puzzle.

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.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Strands hints, answers for December 23, 2025

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 13:23

Today's NYT Strands hints are easy if you don't like the heat.

Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game, requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 23, 2025 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 23, 2025 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: B-r-r-r-r!

The words are related to the temperature.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe lower temperatures.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Not So Hot.

NYT Strands word list for December 23
  • Chilly

  • Polar

  • Cold

  • Glacial

  • Not So Hot

  • Freezing

  • Frigid

  • Cool

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and 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 Strands.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 23, 2025

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 13:22

Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if there's a twinkle in your eye.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. 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 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 23, 2025 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for December 23, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A glimmer.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter G.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

GLINT

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle 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.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 23, 2025

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

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 Wordle.

Categories: IT General, Technology

5 horror movies Stephen King recommended in 2025

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 13:10

Aside from slamming Trump, Stephen King often uses his social media platforms to recommend TV shows, books and films.

2025 was no exception. Over the past 12 months the author has made recommendations in a number of genres, but the one he kept coming back to – unsurprisingly – was his home turf of horror.

Here are five movies he shouted out this year.

SEE ALSO: Every single Stephen King movie adaptation, ranked Abraham's Boys View on Threads

"I really enjoyed ABRAHAM’S BOYS, based on the story by Joe Hill and starring Titus Welliver (BOSCH)," wrote King on Threads. "It’s a creepfest. You’ll find it soon, maybe try Shudder?"

Abraham's Boys is streaming on Shudder.

Killing Faith View on Threads

"A quasi-supernatural Western that has echoes of Cormac McCarthy," King wrote. "The first scene, involving a child and a horse, is an authentic shocker."

Killing Faith is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

The Monkey View on Threads

"You've never seen anything like THE MONKEY. It's batshit insane," King wrote on Threads. "As someone who has indulged in batshittery from time to time, I say that with admiration."

The Monkey is streaming on Hulu.

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

"Dave Franco and Alison Brie are great--and brave--in TOGETHER," King wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "Horror movies work when you care about the people. This one works."

Together is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

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

"WEAPONS: Confidently told, and very scary," King wrote on X. "I loved it."

Weapons is streaming on HBO Max.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson on Song Sung Blue and the value of karaoke

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 13:07

Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson team with director Craig Brewer for Song Sung Blue, a moving drama based on the stranger-than-fiction story of Milwaukee-based Neil Diamond tribute band Lightning and Thunder.

The film, which in my review I called a "feel-good movie and a good tearjerker," involves big dreams, heavy losses, and how music can carry people through all of it. So, when I — Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko — sat down with Jackman, Hudson, and Brewer to talk about the film, we naturally got into the power of karaoke.

Within the film, both Jackman and Hudson take on musical performances on stages big and small. But two scenes in a karaoke night hit me hard. The celebrated co-stars spoke about these scenes, then shared some stories of their own — like the time Hudson performed for Quincy Jones and the night John Travolta and Jackman did a duet of "Summer Love" from Grease, with the latter playing Sandy because he's Australian.

Brewer also shared his love of karaoke on and offscreen, getting into why this particular form of performance hits so hard, and what makes it so relatable.

Song Sung Blue opens in theaters on Dec. 25.

Categories: IT General, Technology

6-7? Aura farming? 2025s viral internet slang, explained

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 12:17

Each year, the internet gives birth to a new lexicon, one that's as fast-moving and unpredictable as the online trends that fuel it. 2025 is no different, with a fresh crop of viral slang that’s quickly become shorthand for everything from viral moments to internet culture’s quirks.

More than words, these phrases are creative expressions of identity in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Whether you're on TikTok, Twitch, or the latest meme loop, these are the terms that have dominated conversations among Gen Z and Gen Alpha this year.

SEE ALSO: The cult and community of Labubu

Buckle up, because we’re about to break down the slang that has defined 2025. You're about to hear these words everywhere, whether you're ready or not.

Aura farming

Aura farming is the art of cultivating an undeniable, magnetic energy that draws people in. It’s all about crafting a vibe so strong and captivating that others can’t help but be pulled into your orbit. Whether it's exuding confidence, radiating charm, or just owning the room, aura farming is often used to elevate one’s status and influence.

While the phrase technically evolved from a 2024 meme, it truly peaked this year. A prime example? Sung Jinwoo, the protagonist of Solo Leveling, who’s become the internet’s unofficial king of aura farming. His journey is all about leveling up, both in power and presence, as he faces stronger dungeon bosses. In a sense, the entire anime is one big exercise in aura farming, a constant evolution of strength and influence, perfectly embodying the idea.

Cook, cooking, cooked

When someone says "let me cook," they’re preparing to flex their skills or impress with a creative idea or a solution. It’s the digital equivalent of saying, "Let me show you what I can do." Whether it’s a fire take or a dope outfit, you’ll know they’re about to serve something incredible.

But cooking isn’t always a win. In a different context, when someone says they’re "cooked," it means they're out of options, overworked, or done for — like they’ve been taken to their limit. In a way, it’s the inverse: where "let me cook" invites success and flair, "I'm cooked" signals that it's all over for them. Alternatively, you could also say, "I'm fried."

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

If you're not familiar with this quirky phrase, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Born from the antics of Twitch streamer and former AMP collective member Fanum, "Fanum tax" is a silly way to describe that cheeky act of snagging a bite of someone else’s food, without asking. (You gotta pay the Fanum tax!) Explaining the phrase to GQ, Fanum simply said, "Feed your friends, bro."

But beyond the simple act of food theft, this term has morphed into a bit of a phenomenon, extending its reach to describe everything from friendship dynamics to viral TikTok trends. It's become a phrase to insert, often ironically, into just about anything.

Clock it

"Clock it" is all about drawing attention to something noteworthy. It’s a call to remember, an invitation to keep something in mind for later, like a spoiler for a big twist or a prediction that’s about to come true. It's the ultimate way of saying, "I told you so," but with a more stylish flair.

Clock that tea

"Clock that tea" is a phrase used to describe the act of noticing or picking up on juicy gossip, drama, or revealing truths, often before others do. It combines the slang terms "clock," meaning to observe or catch onto something (see above), and "tea," a term used for gossip or truth. For example, if someone walks into a room and instantly picks up on the tension between two people, they've clocked that tea. It's a way of acknowledging someone's sharp perception when it comes to spotting social dynamics or hidden drama. The phrase is rooted in queer vernacular and is particularly common in drag and ballroom-adjacent spaces.

However, "clock that tea" is often incorrectly paired with finger claps, a rhythmic hand gesture from ballroom culture in which you touch your index finger and thumb together in rapid motion. Finger claps are a sign of applause and celebration, a way to support drag and ballroom performers without disrupting their performance.

Ate, chewed, nibbled

When something "eats," it means it was so good that there’s nothing left to improve upon. Eating and leaving no crumbs means absolute perfection, whether we’re talking about a performance, a look, or a viral moment. It’s a way of giving top-tier praise, acknowledging that what just went down was next level.

SEE ALSO: A parent's guide to Skibidi Toilet: What is it and why is it so popular?

Originally coined within LGBTQ+ communities, particularly Black and Latinx ballroom culture, "ate" was a term used to describe moments of excellence. Over time, it made its way into the mainstream lexicon, where it now signifies a flawless execution. But here's where things get interesting: the evolution of "ate" has introduced new internet phrases like "she chewed" and "she nibbled." These are used when something is still impressive, but maybe not quite as flawless. It’s a tiered approach to praise — "she chewed" is close, but not quite the perfect "ate," and "she nibbled" signals that it was good, but there’s room for more.

Bop

Remember when "bop" used to refer to a catchy song? Well, in recent years, the word has taken on a very different meaning. Bop can also refer to a promiscuous person with multiple sexual partners, someone who posts their body online for views, or imply a sexual act, often linked to casual or performative sexuality. While the term is often viewed as a derogatory way to shame young women — think of "bop" as Gen Z and Gen Alpha's version of "slut" — it's also used within the sex work community.

This meaning was revitalized and adapted by online sex workers on platforms like camgirl sites and OnlyFans, who use bop as part of "algospeak," or a strategy to bypass content moderation and platform restrictions. The term’s popularity surged even more with the rise of the Bop House, a viral content house made up of OnlyFans creators that helped cement bop as a coded term within digital sex work culture.

Mewing

Mewing, a technique originally linked to reshaping your jawline by positioning your tongue in a certain way, has been floating around the internet for a while now, particularly in DIY beauty and wellness circles. But in 2025, it's taken on a new form. Teenage boys, especially, have turned "mewing" into a reason for not participating in class. Essentially, they're too busy mewing to talk or contribute. It’s become a tongue-in-cheek excuse, allowing them to avoid answering questions or doing any actual work.

This unexpected use of the term shows how internet slang can evolve in unpredictable ways, morphing from a niche beauty trend into a full-blown classroom strategy.

Mogger

Mogger is the term for someone who effortlessly makes others look like background characters simply by standing next to them. It comes from the verb mogging, which means to outshine or overshadow someone in terms of looks. If you’ve ever felt like your glow-up evaporated the moment a ridiculously good-looking friend walked into the room, congratulations: you’ve been mogged.

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A mogger is a person blessed with top-tier genetics, symmetrical features, or a jawline sharp enough to slice through glass. This term floats around in online spaces obsessed with appearance, like "looksmaxxing" (the art of optimizing one’s looks) and mewing (see above).

Gooning

Simply put, "gooning" is a kink centered around extended, often non-orgasmic masturbation that brings the participant into a trance-like state of uninhibited pleasure. While it’s similar to edging in that climax is often delayed or avoided, gooning is less about control and more about losing it. And while the phrase entered internet subcultures over the 2010s and 2020s, its meaning has expanded over time.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. SEE ALSO: What is gooning?

In the queer community, "gooning" is the word du jour, used both sincerely and ironically to describe ecstatic, over-the-top obsession or emotional surrender, sexual or otherwise. What began as a niche kink term now doubles as cultural shorthand for any kind of intense, exaggerated immersion, whether someone is lost in a thirst trap, spiraling through memes, or watching their favorite show on loop. This layered usage reflects not only the term’s absurdity but also Gen Z and Gen Alpha’s tendency to remix kink language into humor, self-parody, and commentary on overstimulation. As a result, "gooning" exists in multiple registers: a sincere erotic practice, an internet in-joke, and a tongue-in-cheek way to say, I’m losing it — in every sense of the phrase.

6-7

"6-7" is a nonsense catchphrase turned IRL emote, born from the chaotic life cycle of TikTok sounds. The phrase comes from Skrilla's rap track "Doot Doot," where he says "6–7" in a distinct cadence. However, the meme isn't really about the song. TikTok grabbed the sound and immediately rerouted it into basketball edits, especially highlighting 6-foot-7 NBA player LaMelo Ball.

SEE ALSO: Stephen Colbert struggling to explain '6-7' is a fun watch

From there, the meme took on a life of its own. The most influential version features a kid at a basketball game using the "6-7" lyric as an emote — an up-and-down bouncing hand motion performed purely for fun, the way a video game character might dance or taunt. That motion quickly became the default "6-7" gesture offline.

What does it actually mean? In short: nothing. "6-7" is pure silliness, a filler phrase with no literal definition, divorced from its origins and repeated simply because it feels good to say. Kids use it to be goofy, to match the vibe of the sound, or because someone nearby said the number six or seven, and that’s close enough to justify doing the gesture. It’s the kind of phrase TikTok takes from music to memes to mimicry in record time, turning nonsense into shared language overnight.

W

"W" is internet shorthand for a win — literally. It's used to celebrate a moment, opinion, or action that feels like a victory, whether major or petty. Calling something a "W" or commenting "W take" signals approval and alignment, the digital equivalent of giving someone a trophy for their stance.

Its counterpart is "L," meaning loss. Though rooted in sports and gaming culture, "W" has fully crossed into meme speak and stan spaces, where it’s used both sincerely ("Huge W for her") and sarcastically ("W job, bestie," typed when someone obviously fumbled). The tone depends on context, delivery, and how chronically online the participants are.

Lock in

To "lock in" means to focus with absolute intensity — no distractions, no messing around, full commitment.

The phrase picked up momentum in gaming and sports circles, where teammates urge each other to lock in before high-stakes moments. But in 2025 internet slang, it's used more broadly to hype up friends before anything requiring energy or determination, such as meeting a deadline, shooting a thirst-trap, going to the gym, or even committing to a bit in a group chat.

Someone who is locked in is tuned in, disciplined, and fully embracing the task. Because of its overuse in meme culture, it’s also frequently deployed ironically ("Time to clean my kitchen. I’m locked IN").

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 23, 2025

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 12:12

Today's Connections: Sports Edition will be easier if you think outside the box a bit.

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.

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: 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: Catching your breath

  • Green: Where buckets can be found

  • Blue: Same first name

  • Purple: Sounds similar

Here are today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

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

  • Yellow: A pause for recovery

  • Green: Parts of a basketball hoop

  • Blue: Jordans

  • Purple: Homophones of NBA players

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 #456 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?
  • A pause for recovery - BREAK, BREATHER, RESPITE, REST

  • Parts of a basketball hoop - BASE, GLASS, NET, RIM

  • Jordans - CHILES, LOVE, POOLE, SPIETH

  • Homophones of NBA players - BARNS, FLAG, HEART, QUICKLY

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.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Pips hints, answers for December 23, 2025

Tue, 12/23/2025 - 12:05

Welcome to your guide to Pips, the latest game in the New York Times catalogue.

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

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

How to play Pips

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

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 23, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for December 23, 2025 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Dec. 23 Pips

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

Number (2): Everything in this red space must add up to 2. The answer is 2-1, placed vertically.

Number (8): Everything in this space must add up to 8. The answer is 2-3, placed vertically; 5-1, placed vertically.

Number (12): Everything in this space must add up to 12. The answer is 1-6, placed horizontally; 6-4, placed horizontally.

Number (8): Everything in this space must add up to 8. The answer is 6-4, placed horizontally; 5-4, placed vertically.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for Dec. 23 Pips

Number (3): Everything in this purple space must add up to 3. The answer is 3-6, placed horizontally.

Equal (6): Everything in this red space must be equal to 6. The answer is 3-6, placed horizontally; 6-0, placed vertically; 6-6, placed horizontally.

Equal (4): Everything in this light blue space must be equal to 4. The answer is 4-3, placed horizontally; 4-1, placed vertically.

Less Than (2): Everything in this space must be less than 2. The answer is 6-0, placed vertically.

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

Less Than (4): Everything in this space must be less than 4. The answer is 5-2, placed vertically.

Less Than (2): Everything in this space must be less than 2. The answer is 4-1, placed vertically.

Number (5): Everything in this space must add up to 5. The answer is 5-3, placed horizontally.

Greater Than (2): Everything in this space must be greater than 2. The answer is 5-3, placed horizontally.

Hard difficulty hints, answers for Dec. 23 Pips

Number (10): Everything in this space must add up to 10. The answer is 5-4, placed horizontally; 3-5, placed horizontally.

Equal (4): Everything in this red space must be equal to 4. The answer is 5-4, placed horizontally; 4-0, placed horizontally; 1-4, placed horizontally.

Number (0): Everything in this space must add up to 0. The answer is 4-0, placed horizontally.

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

Number (6): Everything in this space must add up to 6. The answer is 3-4, placed vertically; 3-5, placed horizontally.

Less Than (3): Everything in this space must be less than 3. The answer is 3-2, placed vertically.

Number (8): Everything in this space must add up to 8. The answer is 3-4, placed vertically; 4-6, placed vertically.

Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 2-1, placed horizontally.

Equal (1): Everything in this light blue space must be equal to 1. The answer is 1-4, placed horizontally; 2-1, placed horizontally; 5-1, placed horizontally.

Not Equal: Everything in this space must be different. The answer is 0-3, placed vertically; 5-5, placed horizontally; 4-4, placed vertically.

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

Greater Than (10): Everything in this space must be greater than 10. The answer is 4-6, placed vertically; 5-1, placed horizontally.

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

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