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TL;DR: A refurbished, unlocked 128GB iPhone SE is on sale for $104.99 (reg. $359), giving you Touch ID, wireless charging, and a compact 4.7-inch display.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone SE 2nd Gen 2020 (Refurbished) $104.99
$359 Save $254.01   Get Deal

Remember when iPhones fit in your hand and had a button you could actually press? This refurbished 2020 iPhone SE does, while still packing an A13 Bionic chip, wireless charging, and current iOS support. For a limited time, you can grab one for only $104.99 (reg. $359).

This unlocked iPhone SE is an affordable option for anyone who wants a simpler iPhone, a backup device, or a first phone without flagship pricing.

Under the hood, it runs on Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, which still handles everyday jobs like messaging, browsing, streaming, social media, and casual gaming. The 4.7-inch Retina HD display is noticeably smaller than today’s giant-phone norm, which is a feature, not a flaw, if you miss being able to use your phone comfortably with one hand.

You also get a 12MP rear camera with Portrait mode and 4K video recording, plus a 7MP front camera for selfies and FaceTime. Qi wireless charging is supported, as is fast charging with compatible hardware, and the phone includes both a physical Nano-SIM slot and eSIM support.

Because it’s carrier-unlocked, you’re free to choose from compatible networks. And yes, Touch ID is still here to unlock the phone and approve purchases without pointing the screen at your face.

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This is a Grade B refurbished model from 2020, so light scratches, scuffs, or dents are possible, and you’re getting 4G LTE rather than 5G. It does come with a charging cable, wall adapter, and a third-party 30-day parts-and-labor warranty.

Formerly $359, this refurbished iPhone SE is now only $104.99.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: iScanner turns your iPhone, iPad, or Android device into a portable document scanner with OCR, PDF editing, signatures, and file-management tools. Lifetime access is $29.97 (reg. $199.90).

Opens in a new window Credit: iScanner iScanner App: Lifetime Subscription $29.97
$199.90 Save $169.93   Get Deal

Your phone already replaced your camera, alarm clock, calculator, and approximately half the other gadgets you used to own. With iScanner, you can add the document scanner to that list. The app turns the device already in your pocket into a portable scanner and document manager, and for a limited time, you can grab a lifetime subscription for only $29.97 (reg. $199.90).

Sure, you could snap a photo of every receipt, form, or handwritten note you want to save, but then you’re left hunting through cat photos and random screenshots when you actually need one. iScanner is built specifically for documents, automatically detecting borders, straightening crooked pages, and cleaning up scans. Its OCR can also recognize text in more than 20 languages.

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You can use it for multi-page documents, IDs, passports, books, receipts, assignments, and handwritten notes, then export the finished files in formats including PDF, JPG, DOC, XLS, PPT, and TXT. It also handles many of the tasks you’d normally need a separate PDF app for, including adding signatures and annotations, inserting text, blurring sensitive information, merging or splitting files, and adding watermarks or page numbers.

The built-in file manager helps keep all those scans from becoming another digital junk drawer. You can organize documents into folders and protect confidential files with a PIN. There are also dedicated modes for reading QR codes, solving math problems, measuring objects, and automatically counting similar objects with your camera.

Usually $199.90, lifetime access to iScanner is on sale for $29.97 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Amp up your AI workflow with one of these AI toolkits that give you access to multiple AI models: ChatPlayground compares models, 1min.AI handles broad creative work, and ChatOn offers everyday AI assistance across devices.

Opens in a new window Credit: ChatOn ChatPlayground AI: Lifetime Subscription (Unlimited Plan) $59.97
$619 Save $559.03   Get Deal

We use AI in almost everything now, from writing and research to design, coding, and planning. Using a single AI model is sort of like using the hunt-and-peck method to type. It can get the job done, but you won’t be doing it as efficiently or as wisely as you can.

Multi-model tools are the new way to do AI business and make it all easier to manage by bringing several assistants and specialized features into one workspace. No need for multiple subscriptions or running the same prompt a million times. It also means you don’t have to pay for multiple AI models. The smart pick depends on what you need to accomplish.

Here are three top-tier AI tools to help you decide which might be best for you.

Compare answers with ChatPlayground AI

ChatPlayground is built for people who want to compare before committing to an answer. Enter one prompt and review results from 20+ models, including ChatGPT, Gemini, DeepSeek, Llama, and Perplexity. It also supports coding, prompt refinement, image generation, image and PDF chats, saved history, and priority support. Unlimited monthly messages are subject to fair use, and available models may change as the platform evolves.

Get lifetime ChatPlayground AI Unlimited access on sale for just $59.97 (reg. $619) through Aug. 25.

Create across formats with 1min.AI

1min.AI is the broad content-production option. Its assistants span OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, Meta, Mistral AI, and Cohere. Tools cover writing, keyword research, image creation and editing, multi-document chats, translation, presentations, and PDF questions. Audio features include transcription, speech generation, music, voice tools, isolation, and translation.

Includes 1,000,000 credits per month, plus the opportunity to generate up to 450,000 additional credits every month.

Get lifetime 1min.AI access for just $39.99 (reg. $234).

Handle everyday tasks with ChatOn’s mobile app

ChatOn suits everyday work across iOS, Android, and the web. New users get GPT, Gemini, Claude, Sonar, 100+ prepared prompts, voice input, document processing, OCR, image and video creation, and real-time web search with source links. Its AI keyboard can also generate text inside other apps.

Get one year of ChatOn Premium for a one-time $29.99 (reg. $39.99), for new users only.

The right tool depends on how you work. Pick the one that solves your biggest workflow bottleneck and put AI to better use.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Live stream the Bundesliga for free on CazéTV, AbemaTV, and BBC iPlayer. Access these free live streams from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There's already a lot of football on the schedule. Fans quite simply don't have time to watch everything, but if you're making tough decisions about what to include on your watch list, the Bundesliga should be a priority. Is it the single best league in Europe in terms of overall quality? Probably not, but it's got a strong argument for being the most entertaining.

The big question every season is whether any team can compete with Bayern Munich for the title. Competing with a side stacked with elite talent like Olise, Kane, and Díaz is not easy, but the likes of Dortmund and RB Leipzig always have a chance. Could this season deliver a surprise winner?

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

What is the Bundesliga?

The Bundesliga is Germany's leading professional men's soccer league. It features 18 clubs competing across 34 matchdays, including heavyweight teams like Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.

The defending champions are Bayern Munich.

When is the Bundesliga?

The 2026/27 Bundesliga season runs from Aug. 28 to May 22.

How to watch the Bundesliga for free

The Bundesliga is available to live stream for free on a number of streaming platforms:

• Brazil — CazéTV (up to two live matches per week)

• Japan — AbemaTV (two live matches per week)

• UK — BBC iPlayer (select Friday evening fixtures)

These free live streams are geo-restricted, but anyone can bypass these restrictions with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another location, meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Bundesliga from anywhere in the world.

Access free live streams of the Bundesliga by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend 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 Brazil, Japan, or the UK

4. Visit CazéTV, AbemaTV, or BBC iPlayer

5. Watch Bundesliga fixtures for free from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams of the Bundesliga without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch select fixtures (plus Premier League action) before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free live streams all season, you will need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for live sport is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for the Bundesliga?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport for free, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 80% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with a money-back guarantee).

Live stream the Bundesliga for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Apple is about to launch a new Mac mini for the first time in two years, and it might come ahead of the company's big event in September.

This is according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, who claims the Mac mini will arrive "as soon as the coming days."

The report offers few details about what the new Mac mini will be like. Gurman claims that Apple tested version with Apple M5 and M6 chips, but it's unclear which ones will be used in the final product.

The Mac mini is an unusually coveted product these days, as many people started using it to run AI tools such as agentic LLMs locally, including the super-popular OpenClaw. But the Mac mini hasn't been updated since November 2024, with Apple's M4 or M4 Pro chips and a more compact enclosure. An updated version with Apple's latest chips might be a coveted product, though with recent price increases due to the memory supply crunch, it's hard to tell how good a deal it will be. Apple recently increased the starting price of the M4 Mac Mini from $599 to $799 (though the pricier model comes with twice the storage.

SEE ALSO: Apple is reportedly preparing iPhone price hikes (because of course they are)

Gurman also said Apple is working on a new iPad mini, which could launch by the end of October. The biggest changes for the new iPad mini should be the OLED display and a new chip, likely Apple's A19 Pro or A20.

If the report is accurate, the iPad mini will arrive at an interesting time, as Apple is widely expected to launch its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Ultra, in September. That device will reportedly be similar in display size to an iPad mini when opened, making it a bit of a competitor for Apple's smallest tablet. However, the iPhone Ultra is rumored to cost north of $2,300, while the iPad mini currently starts at $599.

SAVE $650: As of Aug. 25, the Samsung 57-inch Odyssey Neo G9 is on sale for $1,499.99 at Amazon. That's a 31% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 57-Inch Odyssey Neo G9 $1,499.99 at Amazon
$2,299.99 Save $800.00   Get Deal

If you've been thinking about upgrading your gaming setup, now is a great time to do so. The Samsung 57-inch Odyssey Neo G9 is down to $1,449.99 at Amazon. That works out to a $650 saving on the list price.

And that's not all. There's currently an Amazon promotion that gives you an extra $120 in free credit with your purchase. The promotional credit will be added to your Amazon account within 30 days of your order shipping, and Amazon will email you when the credit is awarded. Once added, the $120 credit expires after 120 days. The promotion is limited to one per customer and account, and the maximum promotional credit available through the offer is $120.

It's not an all-time low price (that's $1,399.99), but the free credit effectively makes this the best-ever deal on this monitor.

SEE ALSO: GTA 6 Cyberleek update: Everything leaked so far, what might be next

This Samsung gaming monitor is a dual-UHD option with a 57-inch UHD display, providing the screen space of two UHD monitors in one. It has a 240Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and DisplayPort 2.1 support, with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for smoother play.

It features Quantum Matrix Technology with Quantum Mini LEDs and 2,392 local dimming zones, delivering controlled brightness and contrast. It also benefits from VESA DisplayHDR 1000, which provides up to 1,000 nits peak brightness and a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio.

Find this gaming monitor deal at Amazon now.

SAVE $100: As of Aug. 25, the DJI Mini 3 drone is on sale for $383.99 at Amazon. That's a 21% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mini 3 $383.99 at Amazon
$483.99 Save $100   Get Deal

If you've been considering a DJI drone, there's still good news. The recent ban on foreign-made drones doesn't affect existing stock, so DJI models already on sale can still be picked up as normal. And right now, the DJI Mini 3 is available for its lowest-ever price. As of Aug. 25, you can save $100 with the new price of $383.99.

This is a lightweight drone weighing under 249 grams. This, plus built-in features designed to make it easy to fly, makes it a great choice for beginners.

SEE ALSO: The ultimate mobile podcasting rig: Save $40 on Shure’s MV88+ microphone

For shooting content, this drone can record 4K HDR video, with Dual Native ISO Fusion helping capture detail in both highlights and shadows. It can give you up to 10km of HD video transmission. Plus, it includes GPS Return to Home, Precise Hovering, and automatic takeoff and landing, making it easier to fly.

Its flight time can reach up to 51 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus. But it's worth noting that this takes the drone's weight above 249 grams.

This bundle includes the DJI Mini 3, DJI RC-N1, Intelligent Flight Battery, carrying case, landing gear, propeller guards, spare propellers and screws, a gimbal protector, propeller holder, screwdriver, and USB-C to USB-C PD cable.

You'll find this deal available at Amazon right now.

SAVE OVER $40: As of Aug. 25, the Shure MV88+ is on sale for $237 at Amazon. That's a 15% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shure Shure MV88+ $237 at Amazon
$279 Save $42   Get Deal

If you make videos for social media, work, or even just for fun, good audio can make a bigger difference than you might think. As much as a good camera helps, a decent mic setup can really help make your videos sound more polished. That's where the Shure MV88+ comes in.

It's a compact microphone designed to help your audio sound much better when recording from your phone. And as of Aug. 25, it's on sale at Amazon. Normally $279, it is currently priced at $237, saving you $42 on the list price.

SEE ALSO: The ultimate TikTok vlogging upgrade: The DJI Mic Mini is on sale for under $60 at Amazon

It's easy to set up and use, connecting directly to compatible iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac, and PC devices using the included Lightning and USB-C cables. There's also a built-in 3.5mm headphone output that allows for zero-latency monitoring while recording.

If you download the Shure MOTIV Audio and Video apps, you'll be able to adjust various settings to improve the audio. These include gain, EQ, compression, stereo width, DSP modes, and polar patterns.

Ready to upgrade your audio? You can find this microphone deal at Amazon right now.

TL;DR: Get the iPhone 17 for free from T-Mobile when you trade in your eligible phone on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan. The Apple iPhone 17 Pro is also free with T-Mobile — qualify by bringing your number on an Experience Beyond plan (no trade-in needed).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple T-Mobile: Free iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro   Get Deal

We've heard a lot from Samsung and Google recently. They've taken over the tech news cycle with a flood of new foldables, smartwatches, smart glasses, and flagship phones, leaving Apple fans waiting.

Of course, Apple's next keynote is looming on the horizon, but you don't actually have to wait to score a major upgrade. Between soaring component costs and global RAM shortages that are driving up retail prices across the board, T-Mobile is softening the blow by rolling out a set of limited-time free iPhone 17 offers.

If you want the simplest entry point into the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 17e is currently free when you switch to almost any qualifying T-Mobile plan, no trade-in required. For those eyeing the iPhone 17, it's completely free over 36 months on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan when you turn in an eligible trade-in device. And if you want the flagship iPhone 17 Pro for free, simply bring your existing number over to an Experience Beyond plan (no trade-in required).

All of these deals are live through the week.

T-Mobile requires you to pay local sales tax on the full retail value of the phone upfront, alongside a standard $35 device connection fee per line at checkout. Your savings are then applied as monthly bill credits spread over 24 to 36 months.

Paying a small fee in upfront taxes and fees to walk away with a brand-new iPhone 17 or iPhone 17 Pro remains one of the best mobile carrier deals on the market this weekend.

The Hydrow Labor Day sale at a glance: Hydrow Origin Rower $1,745 (save $450) Get Deal Hydrow Wave Rower $1,845 (save $150) Get Deal Hydrow Arc Rower $2,195 (save $100) Get Deal

Labor Day is the perfect excuse to finally get that rowing machine you've been eyeing for years, largely because top brands like Hydrow drop limited-time offers. From Aug. 24 through Sept. 10, you can save up to $450 on the brand's connected rowers — no code needed.

Whether you want Hydrow's flagship Origin, the compact and storable Wave, or the tech-loaded Arc, there's a discount waiting for you. Buy any of the three, and you'll also get a free "Strong Start" package (worth $300), including a 1:1 onboarding session, a four-week workout plan, and a workout kit. Order between Sept. 4 and Sept. 10, and you'll get a free month of membership tossed in too.

The Origin has been Hydrow's flagship since 2017. It comes with access to 6,000+ workouts, so you're getting a full cross-training system. Real athletes lead every class, and you'll get live feedback on splits, meters rowed, and streaks to help you track progress and push harder each session.

If you're tight on space, Wave is about 30% smaller than Origin and can even store upright, making it the pick for smaller apartments or shared workout spaces. It comes in five colors and has an open-frame design with a sleek, minimalist look. Don't let the compact size fool you, though — it still delivers the same smooth, quiet electromagnetic resistance and full library of 6,000+ workouts.

Finally, the Arc is for people who want the most advanced Hydrow experience. It's got better processing power, memory, and speakers to keep up with future software updates. HydroMetrics, a new strength-scoring system, provides real-time data so you can train with precision.

Ready to row into fall? Shop Hydrow's Labor Day sale before it's gone.

TL;DR: ChatPlayground is a new AI platform that gives you lifetime access to dozens of major models for $60.

Opens in a new window Credit: ChatPlayground AI ChatPlayground AI: Lifetime Subscription (Unlimited Plan) $59.97
$619 Save $559.03   Get Deal

Copying the same prompt into three different AI tools just to see which one answers best wastes time, and juggling separate tabs and subscriptions gets old very fast. Different models are good at different things, so comparing them side by side makes it a whole lot easier than just guessing if GPT will be able to write a good email today. ChatPlayground AI puts the top AI models in one interface, and a lifetime Unlimited subscription is on sale for $59.97 (reg. $619) through Aug. 25.

You can compare GPT-4o, Claude Sonnet, Gemini, DeepSeek, Llama, Perplexity, and more in a single clean window. That setup suits people who iterate fast, test variations, and want to tighten their results.

Beyond comparisons, ChatPlayground AI includes prompt engineering tools to refine outputs, image and PDF chat for context-aware responses, saved chat history for ongoing projects, and AI image generation powered by leading models. There’s even a Chrome extension to integrate it directly into your browsing workflow.

The Unlimited Plan means unlimited messages per month, making it ideal for startups, product teams, marketers, and prompt engineers who run experiments nonstop. You also get priority support and early access to new features and future models.

If you’re already paying for multiple AI tools or constantly switching between them, this brings everything into a single platform.

Get lifetime access to ChatPlayground on sale for $59.97. Sale ends Aug. 25 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: AcePDF Converter and Editor is on flash sale for $23.97 (reg. $99.99) through Aug. 25 — a lifetime license instead of another monthly fee.

Opens in a new window Credit: Acethinker AcePDF Converter & Editor: Lifetime License $23.97
$99.99 Save $76.02   Get Deal

Most PDF tools want you locked into a monthly plan just to merge a couple of files or convert a document. AcePDF Converter and Editor skips that model entirely — pay once, use it for as long as you need it. And this week only, it’s on flash sale for $23.97 through Aug. 25.

The app delivers fast, accurate conversion. Drop in a PDF and pull out a Word, Excel, or JPG file with the original layout, images, and hyperlinks intact, or go the other direction and turn a Word doc, Excel sheet, or PPT file into a clean PDF.

Built-in OCR extracts text from scanned or image-based PDFs, making old paperwork searchable and editable rather than just a picture. From there, you can mark up existing PDFs, fill out forms, merge or split files, compress large documents, add watermarks, or lock sensitive files behind a password.

Compatible with both Mac and PC, the license covers two devices, so it works whether you’re switching between a work laptop and a home computer.

Get AcePDF Converter and Editor for $23.97 in a flash sale through Aug. 25.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Windows 11 Pro is $10.49 for one compatible PC, with no subscription or recurring fees, with code SAVE30.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Windows 11 Pro $10.49
$199 Save $188.51   Get Deal

If your PC has been running a little sluggish or you’ve been meaning to bring your system up to speed, Windows 11 Pro is just $10.49 (MSRP $199) — a rare, time-sensitive offer that rewards quick, savvy decisions.

This isn’t about chasing trends; it’s more about giving your computer the modern foundation it deserves. Windows 11 Pro brings a sleeker UI, better multitasking, and enhanced security — all in a one-time lifetime license.

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Think of it as the difference between driving a reliable car and suddenly upgrading to one with a smarter dashboard, smoother handling, and built-in security features.

For professionals, creators, and frequent users, this upgrade also unlocks features like Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, BitLocker encryption, and seamless Azure AD integration — tools that make a real difference when you’re working across projects or managing sensitive data.

And yes, Windows 11 comes with Copilot, Microsoft’s AI-powered assistant that can summarize pages, change settings, or even help you generate code on the fly. It’s like having a co-pilot (literally) inside your OS.

But you don’t need convincing — you already know a smart upgrade when you see one.

Get Windows 11 Pro for just $10.49 (MSRP $199), with code SAVE30.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult if you're a film buff.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for August 25, 2026 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: It's not that deep

• Green: Defies science

• Blue: Classic films

• Purple: A sweet treat

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

Here are today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: Surface-level

• Green: Sci-Fi phenomena

• Blue: Stephen King film adaptations, with "The"

• Purple: Ending in ice cream orders

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 #1171 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Surface-level: COSMETIC, ONE-DIMENSIONAL, SKIN-DEEP, SUPERFICIAL

• Sci-Fi phenomena: HYPERSPACE, PARALLEL UNIVERSE, TELEPORTATION, TIME WARP

• Stephen King film adaptations, with "The": GREEN MILE, LONG WALK, RUNNING MAN, SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION

• Ending in ice cream orders: HARLEM SHAKE, INSIDE SCOOP, LICKETY-SPLIT, TRAFFIC CONE

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

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

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 yesterday's Connections.

Looking for spoiler-free NYT Connections hints or just wondering why Connections is trending today? We've got what you need to understand the clues for today's puzzle without spoiling any of the answers.

Of course, Mashable has also provided daily hints and answers for Connections, Wordle, and Strands for years, so we can help you if that's also what you need.

While we are focused more on meanings than hints in this story, sometimes learning that many of the words have completely unrelated meanings is a clue in and of itself. Connections frequently includes clues that involve words within words and other visual clues.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 25, 2026 Superficial meaning

Lacking deep meaning.

Hyperspace meaning

A movie or a sci-fi mode of transport.

Harlem Shake meaning

A viral internet dance.

Lickety-split meaning

To do or achieve something quickly.

Running Man meaning

A popular dance or one of two movies adaptations.

Traffic cone meaning

A conical device used to block or direct traffic.

Time warp meaning

A disruption in time. Possibly a dance from cult-classic film The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Long Walk meaning

A lengthy, exhausting journey. Possibly the title of a movie adaptation.

One-Dimensional meaning

Lacking profound depth or meaning.

Parallel universe meaning

An alternate timeline.

Green Mile meaning

A popular Stephen King book.

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

Inside scoop meaning

Possessing information before the general public does.

Cosmetic meaning

Relating to physical appearance

Shawshank Redemption meaning

An award-winning film starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman.

Teleportation meaning

Instantaneous transportation between two points.

Skin-deep meaning

Something that is only at the surface level.

Have you learned the meanings and still want the things? Check out the hints and answers for today's NYT Connections puzzle.

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

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

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 yesterday's Connections.

Today's Connections: Sports Edition will be easier if you know watch European soccer.

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. The sports 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 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 before 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: AFC North

• Green: Host cities

• Blue: European champions

• Purple: Football Giants

Here are today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow: An AFC North Player

• Green: European Cities to Host Olympics, Since 2000

• Blue: Champions League Winners

• Purple: New York Giants

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 #701 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• An AFC North Player: BENGAL, BROWN, RAVEN, STEELER

• European Cities to Host Olympics, Since 2000: LONDON, MILAN, PARIS, TURIN

• Champions League Winners: AJAX, JUVENTUS, PORTO, REAL MADRID

• New York Giants: BURNS, DART, HOLLAND, LIKELY

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 yesterday's Connections.

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

Released in August 2025, 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 on to 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 with 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 August 25, 2026

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 August 25, 2026 Easy difficulty hints, answers for August 25 Pips

Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 4-4, placed horizontally.

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

Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 1-6, placed horizontally; 3-3, placed vertically.

Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 3-3, placed vertically; 0-1, placed horizontally; 6-5, placed horizontally.

Less Than (2): Everything in this space must be less than 2. The answer is 0-1, placed horizontally

Medium difficulty hints, answers for August 25 Pips

Greater Than (2): Everything in this space must be greater than 2. The answer is 4-6, placed horizontally.

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

Equal (3): Everything in this space must be equal to 3. The answer is 2-3, placed horizontally; 3-6, placed vertically.

Equal (6): Everything in this space must be equal to 6. The answer is 6-6, placed vertically; 6-5, placed horizontally.

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

Equal (6): Everything in this space must be equal to 6. The answer is 3-6, placed vertically; 1-6, placed horizontally.

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

Hard difficulty hints, answers for August 25 Pips

Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 3-3, placed vertically; 0-6, placed horizontally; 2-0, placed vertically.

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

Number (6): Everything in this space must add up to 6. The answer is 2-0, placed vertically; 6-4, placed horizontally.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 6-5, placed horizontally; 0-4, placed horizontally.

Number (10): Everything in this space must add up to 10. The answer is 0-5, placed horizontally; 5-3, placed vertically.

Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 5-3, placed vertically; 6-6, placed horizontally.

Number (8): Everything in this space must add up to 8. The answer is 6-6, placed horizontally; 1-1, placed horizontally.

Not Equal: Everything in this space must be different. The answer is 4-0, placed horizontally; 3-1, placed vertically; 2-5, 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.

Today's NYT Strands hints are easy for those who love being outside.

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 August 25, 2026 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Enjoying nature

The words are adjectives related to the Great Outdoors.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe an outdoorsy activity.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

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NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Take a Hike.

NYT Strands word list for August 25

• Path

• Canteen

• Take a Hike

• Trailhead

• Woods

• Wildlife

• Market

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

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 yesterday's Strands.

Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you can connect the dots.

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 August 25, 2026 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 August 25, 2026 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

To snap.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter C appears twice.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

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...

CLICK

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.

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

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

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 yesterday's Wordle.

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

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

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

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

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

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

Shy.

Hurdle Word 1 answer

TIMID

Hurdle Word 2 hint

By oneself.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 25, 2026 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

ALONE

Hurdle Word 3 hint

The start.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 25, 2026 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Meanings for each word for Aug. 25, 2026 Hurdle Word 3 answer

BIRTH

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Ceasefire.

Hurdle Word 4 answer

TRUCE

Final Hurdle hint

Pelvic area.

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

GROIN

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