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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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Meta outage: Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp experience downtime

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 19:31

Updated on Friday, June 12 at 4:22 p.m. ET — Meta's status page indicates that all disruptions have been restored and all disruptions are now concluded.

Updated on Friday, June 12, at 1:26 p.m. ET — Andy Stone, Meta VP of Communications, posted an update on X that stated Meta services were being restored.

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The Meta status page for its business services listed most of the June 12 disruptions as resolved. "We have recovered from an earlier outage impacting Ads Creation and Editing, and services have now been restored. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may have caused." However, the WhatsApp Business Platform still showed "High Disruptions" as of this writing.

Updated on Friday, June 12 at 1:15 p.m. ET — As of this writing, the outages for Meta's services appear to be on their way out, at least according to DownDetector. Meta has not provided an official cause for the outage yet, however.

Some of Meta's products had a hard time on Friday morning.

Services like Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp all experienced temporary service outages to start the weekend. The cause is unknown at this point in time, but Meta's VP of Communications, Andy Stone, acknowledged the outage on X.

Stone said Meta's engineers are working on it.

SEE ALSO: How to tweak Instagram's algorithm to show you the content you really want This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. That's not good. Credit: Screenshot: Downdetector

In addition, the platform DownDetector recorded spikes in user error reports for Meta products on Friday. A peak of 10,000 users reported problems accessing Instagram, with the majority reporting problems with the app.

According to DownDetector users (Disclosure: Mashable and Down Detector have the same parent company, Davis), Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp all experienced problems starting in the late morning on Friday. On top of that, Meta's status page for its business applications also noted "High Disruptions" on Friday morning, too.

Anecdotally, multiple Mashable staff members have had a hard time posting or sending messages on Instagram during this outage. It's unclear exactly when the problem will be resolved, but at the very least, Meta is aware of it and is doing something about it.

This is a developing story...

Categories: IT General, Technology

We found the best Apple Watch deals ahead of Prime Day — shop the Series 11 for $100 off

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 18:59
Best early Prime Day Apple Watch deals Best Apple Watch Deal Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm, GPS) $299 (Save $100) Get Deal Apple Watch Series 11 (46mm) Deal Apple Watch Series 11 (46mm, GPS) $329 (Save $100) Get Deal Best Apple Watch SE 3 Deal Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm, GPS) $219 (Save $30) Get Deal

Warmer weather means more time outside, and when you're in the great outdoors, a fitness tracker or smartwatch helps track all of that activity. Whether you're headed out on a European vacation or have a list of summer hikes to tackle, an Apple Watch is one of our favorite ways to stay connected and track activity, and with Prime Day on the horizon, we're hunting for deals on the smartwatch.

Amazon's biggest sale of the year, which spans four days from June 23 to 26, is almost here. Early deals are already dropping, and while there are some gems like the lowest price ever on the Apple AirPods Pro 3, most of the deals are just OK. Apple Watches are on sale, and you can find one for its lowest price ever, too, but we're still holding out for more deals.

SEE ALSO: A Prime Day Apple deals primer: How low prices will go on AirPods, iPads, and MacBooks Best early Prime Day Apple Watch deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm, GPS) $299 at Amazon
$399 Save $100   Get Deal

The Apple Watch Series 11 is down to $299 ahead of Prime Day, which, according to Camelcamelcamel, is its lowest price ever. So while we know this is the best price on the latest smartwatch from Apple, we also know that it's been sitting at $299 for several months now. With Prime Day coming up, it feels like it's due for another price cut.

But that doesn't take away from the Apple Watch Series 11's $299 price, which saves you $100 off its $399 price tag. We rate it our favorite smartwatch for fitness tracking, and it has an impressive battery. With improved battery life compared to the Series 10, you don't need to charge the watch midday for battery life to last you all night. So if you've been thinking about upgrading, grab it now for its lowest price ever.

Apple Watch Series 11 dealsApple Watch SE deals
Categories: IT General, Technology

The World Cups breakout star is a duck in a tiny Mexico jersey

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 18:58

The FIFA World Cup is less than 24 hours old, and the internet has already found its main character.

Not a striker. Not a goalkeeper. Not even one of the tournament's many celebrity attendees.

A duck.

Following Mexico's 2-0 opening-day victory against South Africa, social media users quickly became obsessed with a video of a duck waddling through crowds in Mexico City while wearing a tiny Mexico jersey. (And no, it's not AI.) In a tournament known for producing unforgettable moments, the bird's appearance immediately earned it an unlikely place in the online conversation.

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The clip spread across social media, with fans crowning the feathered supporter everything from the "most famous duck in Mexico" to the tournament's MVP. Given that El Tri opened its World Cup campaign with a win, it's hard to argue with the duck's track record so far.

The tiny jersey-wearing mascot emerged amid a day of celebrations that stretched far beyond the action on the pitch. As Mexico supporters flooded the streets after the victory, videos of fans from different countries celebrating together quickly became some of the tournament's most wholesome moments.

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Clips circulating online showed Mexican fans welcoming South Korean supporters with chants of "BTS," impromptu rounds of "Gangnam Style," and plenty of tequila. In one viral video, fans from both countries could be seen raising shots together, turning a World Cup game into an international friendship summit.

All in all, the vibes were undefeated.

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The cultural exchange between Mexico and South Korea also produced the World Cup's very first meme, featuring a Korean fan wearing a sombrero.

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The camaraderie between South Korea and Mexico wasn't limited to the stands. During the tournament's opening ceremony, EJAE, the singer behind KPop Demon Hunters' Oscar–winning hit "Golden," performed the World Cup anthem "DNA" alongside Italian singer Andrea Bocelli.

That's one of the reasons the World Cup remains such a uniquely online event. Every tournament produces its share of highlights and heartbreak, but it also creates viral side stories that take on a life of their own. Sometimes it's a fan. Sometimes it's a celebration. And sometimes it's a duck wearing a soccer (sorry, fútbol) jersey.

With more than a month of matches still ahead, the internet will almost certainly find new heroes. For now, though, the World Cup belongs to one very fashionable duck.

Categories: IT General, Technology

These are all the best iPhone 17 Pro deals live right now

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 18:10

TL;DR: You need an iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max to use Apple's newest Siri AI features. Here are the best deals running right now from Apple, Amazon, and major carriers to help you save up to $1,100 on an upgrade.

If you missed out on buying the iPhone 17 Pro when it launched last September, procrastination may have worked in your favor. Apple just announced that its newest and most advanced Siri AI features will only be available to 17 Pro and Pro Max users. (Though the company has confirmed that iOS 27 may run on devices as old as the iPhone 11.)

SEE ALSO: These 29 iPhones are getting iOS 27: Is yours on the list?

So, if you want the full experience when the update drops this fall, you'll need the newest hardware. Here are the best places to buy the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max today:

The best iPhone 17 Pro deals available right now
  • Amazon (Renewed): If you're not too worried about whether your phone is brand spanking new or not, Amazon's got an unlocked, refurbished iPhone 17 Pro (256GB) for $1,027.74. It's a small savings off the original $1,099.99 retail price, but you can get an additional $600 discount with an eligible trade-in.

  • Apple Store: If you want to buy directly from the source, Apple is offering up to $1,100 in trade-in credits when you swap out an iPhone 13 or newer. If you finance with Apple Card Monthly Installments (ACMI), you can get 0% APR, but you have to choose one of the big four carriers at checkout.

  • AT&T: AT&T is offering up to $1,100 back in bill credits spread over a 36-month installment plan, but your trade-in phone must be valued at a minimum of $290 to get the maximum discount. You also have to activate or upgrade to an eligible unlimited plan.

  • T-Mobile: T-Mobile is running a "no trade-in needed" promo where you can get up to $1,100 back via 24 monthly bill credits by switching over to an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan.

  • Verizon: New business and individual accounts can score up to $829.99 off the iPhone 17 series at Verizon by adding a new line on an eligible plan, or up to $830 off via standard trade-in credits spread over a 36-month installment plan.

  • Best Buy: If you'd rather not deal with a carrier directly, Best Buy's offering up to $1,100 off via AT&T bill credits or up to $830 off via Verizon bill credits when you activate a line and trade in an eligible device.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Siri AI is not into you, Apples Craig Federighi says

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 18:06

Feeling lonely? Having trouble with your love life or lack thereof? Were you hoping the new AI-powered Siri could fill those voids?

Unfortunately, you may have to look elsewhere for companionship. Apple's Senior Vice President of Software Engineering Craig Federighi says Siri is just not that into you – and Apple purposefully designed it that way.

At WWDC this week, Federighi and Apple's Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing Greg Joswiak sat down for an interview with Laurie Segall of the tech YouTube channel Mostly Human.

During the interview, Segall pointed out that the features showcased during WWDC focused on Siri AI as a utility and not as a companion.

Federighi responded by explaining that this was a very purposeful move by Apple.

"I think that utility is at the foundation of human creativity and ultimately time for connection, right?" Federighi said. "I think the unlock around all of this is that you get to live the rest of your life and you get to feel really empowered doing it. I guess that's where the sexy part comes in, right? I don't think the sexy part actually belongs in the computer. It belongs in your life and so that's our focus. The idea of AI as a solution for loneliness, I mean loneliness is about a lack of connection to real people, you know, real humans."

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Federighi's discussion around AI as a solution for loneliness is significant. Numerous AI companies have been sued over the past few years due to AI chatbots and assistants attempting to have a human-like relationship, platonic or romantic in nature, and that connection resulting in real-life injury or death.

Apple's view seems to be in stark contrast to the approach of some of these other AI companies.

"Many of the existing chatbots, they're really focused on engagement to a large degree and sycophancy, right?" said Federighi. "They kind of want to pull you in. They might encourage you to reveal things about yourself and then use that as a basis to establish a connection. We view it quite the opposite. The way that we have designed Siri, Siri really wants to say, 'Listen, that's not what I'm here for, right? I'm here to I'm here to help you. I can help you get things done. I can help you learn about the world.' But if you try to engage Siri as a romantic partner, Siri's not up for that. Siri's 100 percent not into that."

So, there you have it. Apple says no funny business with the new Siri. And that seems to be the safe approach.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The latest iPhone Fold rumors, leaks, and renders: Everything we know so far

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 17:59

The long-awaited foldable iPhone should arrive in 2026; all signs point to a fall or winter 2026 release. Apple kept a very tight lid on its first-ever foldable phone right up until dropping the iOS 27 developer beta, which includes some direct and indirect references to the iPhone Fold (also rumored to be called the iPhone Ultra or iPhone Ultra Fold).

Early adopters already love foldables — and they have plenty of options — but Apple's been notably absent from the genre. However, don't count Apple out. The company has a history of showing up late to the party and then absolutely cornering the market, as it did with AirPods and iPhones.

So, as we await official details, here's everything we know about the first foldable iPhone, including the latest rumors, specifications, release date, and pricing.

When will the iPhone Fold be released?

We think the iPhone Fold will arrive in fall 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. Numerous rumors pointed to this over the last year. However, while Apple traditionally releases all of its new iPhones in September, the Fold might not be ready by then.

A tech analyst named Tim Long recently claimed that shipments of the iPhone Fold will begin in December of this year, not September, though Bloomberg's Mark Gurman threw cold water on this rumor. And Gurman seems to have a crystal ball looking right into Apple headquarters these days.

Still, given the ongoing global memory shortage, last-minute delays are always possible, so we'll have to wait and see.

What's the iOS 27 beta telling us about the iPhone Fold?

The iPhone Fold isn't (yet) an official device. We do know a lot about it, but mostly via rumors, whispers, and reports coming out of Apple's supply chain.

But now, with the first iOS 27 developer beta, we have some actual clues about the iPhone Fold's existence. Software researcher M1Astra dug through the code (via Bloomberg), and found code that determines whether a device is folded or unfolded. Strings like “mechanicalAngleDegrees” and “angleDegrees" point to Apple fine-tuning the experience depending on how widely a foldable device is open. Researcher Sam Henri Gold found similar clues in the code.

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That's not all. Certain widgets, such as Music, News, and Weather, can now be configured to take up the majority of the iPhone's display. Doesn't make a ton of sense on a regular iPhone (you'd probably just want to have the Music app open instead), but on an iPhone Fold, such a widget could occupy one side of the display while you do something else on the other.

Apple seems to be preparing developers to handle a larger variety of form factors. Credit: Apple

Then, at WWDC 2026, Apple's Senior VP of Software Engineering, Craig Federighi, pointed out a developer-specific feature called the Device Hub, which allows developers to simulate their apps in different screen configurations.

Finally, Macworld found references in the code suggesting a device that has both the Dynamic Island and a Touch ID; such a device does not exist today, but the iPhone Fold is rumored to have both.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. SEE ALSO: Apple's iPhone Fold is on track, but it might be pricier than we thought What will the iPhone Fold specs look like? What would you want to see in a foldable iPhone design? Let us know in the comments. Credit: Zain bin Awais / Mashable

The iPhone Fold remains a mystery to some extent, of course, but we do have a very rough idea of what it could offer. Based on all the rumors and leaks, the iPhone Fold will have a wider design than the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, Galaxy Z Fold 7, and the impressive Motorola Fold.

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman predicts that the foldable iPhone will be a book-style foldable with four cameras — two on the back, one on the inside, and one front selfie camera. Gurman also predicted it would use Touch ID like the iPad Air and Pro, even though iPhones typically use Face ID. All the recent leaks back up Gurman's reporting.

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In fact, the smartphone market is already adapting to the expected size of the iPhone Fold, and a Samsung Z Fold 8 Wide model recently leaked. Huawei was the first to market with a wide foldable, though the new Pura X Max is only available overseas.

The iPhone Fold specs could look something like this:

  • Displays: 7.8-inch inner OLED display, 5.5-inch outer OLED display

  • Thickness: 9.5mm unfolded, 4.5mm when folded

  • Security: Touch ID

  • Processor: A20 processor

  • Cameras: Dual rear cameras (48MP), dual inner/outer front cameras

  • Price: $2,399

  • Battery: At least 5,088 mAh

We've seen several reports claiming that Apple is committed to making the iPhone Fold's display the best it can possibly be. It should be very durable, super thin, and without a visible crease. Samsung Display is reportedly producing the OLED displays for the iPhone Fold, as Samsung's got the best flexible display tech in the game. There's a reason Samsung released the Galaxy TriFold while the world is still waiting on the first foldable iPhone.

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported earlier this year that the iPhone Fold would have a 7.8-inch inner display, a 5.5-inch outer display, and measure in at just 9 to 9.5mm of thickness. We heard another rumor in September 2025, which claimed the iPhone Fold would look like two iPhone Airs put together, with a similar thickness of 5.6mm. Why the discrepancy between the two reports? It could be the difference between the device's thickness when folded and unfolded.

There's also talk about Apple using innovative tech to make the iPhone Fold lighter and more durable than most foldables. These rumors include a report that the company is using liquid metal for the phone's hinge, which should improve durability.

What will the foldable iPhone be called?

Up until now, most of the tech world has simply called the unannounced device the "iPhone Fold." However, since it's not a confirmed product yet, it's very possible that the phone will have a different name at launch. Some outlets, such as 9to5mac, have lately taken to calling it the "iPhone Ultra" or "iPhone Ultra Fold."

While that would be a cool name (and may actually be the name when it comes out), we're going to stick with "iPhone Fold" for now, just for the sake of simplicity.

How much will the iPhone Fold cost, and will people buy it? A hypothetical rendering of the rumored iPhone Fold. Credit: Zain bin Awais / Mashable

The iPhone Fold is likely to be expensive. An early estimate from research analyst Arthur Liao suggested the price tag for the Fold — gulp — could come in around $2,399. That's in line with expectations in a new report from International Data Corporation (IDC). Last year, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said the iPhone Fold is likely to retail between $2,000 and $2,500.

Despite the sizable cost (the flagship Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is priced at $1,999.99), sales expectations remain high. The IDC report estimated Apple would siphon one-third of the spending in the foldable market in 2026.

"But the real game-changer for the category comes at year-end when Apple enters the foldable space, projected to capture over 22% unit share and a staggering 34% of the foldables market value in its first year, thanks to an expected average price point of $2,400,” read the report.

In March, Mark Gurman claimed that Apple could classify the iPhone Fold as an "Ultra" product, putting it in a higher price tier than other devices in its portfolio alongside other high-end machines like the Apple Watch Ultra. If the phone ends up costing at least $2,000 as expected, this would make sense.

The latest iPhone Fold leaks

In December 2025, we saw lots of alleged iPhone Fold renders circulating on social media, which all share a similar design. We'd take these with a grain of salt, of course.

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In February, a leaker known as Instant Digital posted some alleged renders of the iPhone to the Chinese social media site Weibo. Like most leaks, especially the ones pertaining to Apple, we can't confirm their authenticity. However, they line up with earlier reports of the overall look of the phone.

More recently, Apple leaker Sonny Dickson shared another potential iPhone Fold render in March 2026.

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Dickson shared more purported dummy units of the iPhone Fold in April, giving those renders a bit more physicality than they had before.

April has been fairly bounteous in terms of iPhone Fold leaks. Aside from Dickson's dummy units, YouTuber Vincent Zhong got his hands on the newly released (in Asia) Huawei Pura X Max Wide. This Chinese phone is one of the first real "wide foldables" that we've seen hit the market, and its screen dimensions are almost exactly the same as the alleged dimensions of the iPhone Fold.

While the iPhone Fold will almost certainly look different from Huawei's device, Zhong's hands-on video gives us a decent idea of what to expect from the iPhone Fold as a physical object in your hands.

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We've also gotten some interesting dummy photos from tech leaker Majin Bu on X in April. In these photos, the dummy units look very similar to what we've seen in other recent leaks. In other words, it looks like a shorter, more book-style foldable than previous foldables. It looks like it'll also support MagSafe cases.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. What about the cameras and battery?

Instant Digital makes some interesting claims. Most notably, the report says the iPhone Fold will have the largest-ever iPhone battery. (For reference, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is estimated to have a roughly 5,088 mAh battery.)

"The volume buttons are not on the left side," reads a translation of the post. "Instead, they are placed directly on the top of the right-side frame (similar to the volume button layout on the top of the iPad mini). This may take some getting used to for users’ typical phone habits."

The post also stated, "The rear dual camera + right-side microphone + flash are arranged horizontally. The camera module appears to be fully black and does not match the body color. Currently, the only confirmed color is white, but it is expected that Apple will launch two color options."

What else do we know about the iPhone Fold?

Beyond physical design, another recent report suggested you'll be able to run multiple apps side-by-side when the phone is unfolded, sort of like multitasking on iPadOS 26. However, by all accounts, this device will run iOS, not iPadOS, so you won't exactly get a full iPad experience from the iPhone Fold. (Apps that are designed to run natively in iPadOS, for example, would not be compatible.)

SEE ALSO: Samsung Galaxy Z Trifold vs Apple foldable iPhone: Specs and rumors

Finally, even though the iPhone Fold is still in the realm of fantasy, there are already rumors about a follow-up, clamshell-style foldable from Apple, potentially called the iPhone Flip. That one probably isn't coming until next year, though.

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Categories: IT General, Technology

FIFA World Cup schedule today: Games, kickoff times, livestream info for June 12

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 17:33

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off yesterday with an opening match between host country Mexico and South Africa. Mexico was able to pull out the W in front of a fiery home crowd. Fellow host nations United States and Canada start their World Cup campaigns today, June 12. Can they follow Mexico's lead? The pressure is on.

World Cup Matchday 2 is upon us, and live coverage of the tournament starts at 3 p.m. ET today as host country Canada welcomes opponent Bosnia-Herzegovina. With 48 teams in the mix, there's a lot to keep up with. So we've broken down everything you need to know to tune in live on June 12.

FIFA World Cup schedule today: June 12How to livestream FIFA World Cup games todayWatch Canada vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina

Canada, one of the tournament's co-hosts, begins its World Cup campaign in Toronto today against Bosnia and Herzegovina, looking to take advantage of a home crowd. The Group B matchup kicks off at 3 p.m. ET, and live coverage will be on Fox and Fox One. Peacock will carry the live Spanish-language coverage.

Watch United States vs. Paraguay

The United States is the last of the host nations to kick off its World Cup campaign. The U.S. Men's National Soccer team is hoping for a strong opening against Paraguay in front of a West Coast crowd. The Group D matchup will kick off at 9 p.m. ET at Los Angeles Stadium, and live coverage will be on Fox, Fox One, and Tubi. Peacock will also carry the Spanish-language coverage.

Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One (3-month subscription) $39.98
$59.97 Save $19.99 only for a limited time Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Tubi Tubi (United States vs. Paraguay only) Watch for free Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Peacock Peacock (Spanish language coverage only) Starting at $10.99/month Get Deal More live streaming optionsLive TV cable replacement

If you'd rather get more bang for your buck, you can sign up for a live TV cable replacement service, like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV. These options give you access to 100+ live channels via WiFi connection, including Fox and FS1, for a monthly fee. They can get pretty expensive, but most offer a free trial and introductory rate. Here are a few options to consider:

Watch for free on ITVX, BBC iPlayer, and more with a VPN

Don't want to sign up for another streaming service? I don't blame you. Instead, you might consider subscribing to a VPN and streaming the World Cup matches for free on international services like ITVX, BBC iPlayer, NOS, or RTÉ. We recommend ExpressVPN, an Official Tournament Supporter of the FIFA World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Europe, as our VPN of choice. It offers servers in 105 countries, a user-friendly app available on all major devices, fast connection speeds, up to 10 simultaneous connections, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you're a VPN newbie, our global World Cup watch guide will help you nail down the details.

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpresVPN ExpressVPN (1-month plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal
Categories: IT General, Technology

Where to score FIFA World Cup food deals this summer: Grubhub, Buffalo Wild Wings, McDonalds, and more

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 17:19

Nothing pairs better than food and football (er, soccer). So, now that the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially kicked off, why not indulge in some tasty treats to celebrate? Restaurant chains across the country are getting in on the global tournament with special food and drink items and even some deals.

Whether you're a dedicated soccer fan, new to the sport, or just like delicious food deals, here are all the spots you can score some World Cup food specials this summer.

Auntie Anne's

Auntine Anne's launched a Pitch Pack built for game day. Through July 31, customers can match up any two Pretzel Nugget flavors or Mini Dogs, along with two dips. Plus, it comes in a cute soccer-themed snack box.

The chain is also dropping some limited-edition World Cup merch online, called the Nug Cup Collection. Loyalty members can get $3 off plushies and scarves with the code PRETZELFAN.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Sports and wings are built for each other, and Buffalo Wild Wings knows it. Thus, it's serving up a limited-time Matchday menu inspired by global flavors. The lineup includes six new dipping sauces with flavors from around the world: Peri Peri (South Africa), Yuzu Wasabi (Asia), Maple Sweet Chili (Canada), Sweet Curry (Europe), Smoky Elote (Mexico), and Creamy Chimichurri (South America). The chain is also introducing two new signature cocktails (Red Card Punch and Yellow Card Margarita) and Michelob Ultra Beer Towers.

Chipotle

Chipotle released a limited-edition soccer jersey (there are only 53 available) that reward members have a chance to win. You'll have to use 10 of your rewards points for an entry into the raffle between June 10 and 24.

Crumbl

Through June 13, Crumbl is offering new flavors inspired by the international World Cup teams, including: Blue Raspberry Sports Drink Cookie, American Brownie Sundae Cookie, Mexican Tangy Mango Cookie ft. Tajín, Canadian Nanaimo Bar Cookie, Ultimate Peanut Butter Cookie, and Soccer Field Dubai-Style Cheesecake.

Grubhub

Grubhub is loaded with deals this summer in honor of the World Cup.

From June 29 through July 5, customers can take advantage of the following offers:

  • BOGO 2-piece Chicken Combo from KFC, $15 minimum

  • BOGO Whopper Jr. from Burger King, $15 minimum

  • Free Bacon Cheeseburger from Shake Shack, $25 minimum

  • $15 off orders over $50 from Primo Hoagies

From July 6 through 12, there's a new round of deals:

  • BOGO 4-piece Signature Chicken or Chicken Sandwich from Popeyes, $15 minimum

  • BOGO Personal Pan Pizza from Pizza Hut, $35 minimum

  • Free 10-piece wings from Wingstop, $30 minimum

  • BOGO Spicy Chicken Sandwich from Wendy’s, $20 minimum

Finally, from July 13 through 19, the offers switch to:

  • BOGO Chicken or Cheese Quesadilla from Taco Bell, $20 minimum

  • Free 6-inch Tuna, Turkey, Spicy Italian, or Sweet Onion Teriyaki sub from Subway, $20 minimum

Hard Rock Cafe

Hard Rock Cafe is launching a new Messi Legendary Burger, alongside Lionel Messi, which consists of two smashed patties topped with provolone, tomato, chorizo jam, pickles, and roasted pepper aioli. It's only available for a limited time during the World Cup.

Stop in the Rock Shop for special Hard Rock x World Cup merch as well, including jerseys, hoodies, T-shirts, and more.

Insomnia Cookies

In honor of the World Cup, Insomnia Cookies introduced the Goal Game Pack, which gives fans 16 classic cookies for the price of a dozen. The offer is only available through June 30 at participating bakeries nationwide.

Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme is keeping the deals rolling after National Donut Day with a new offer for the World Cup. Meet the Matchday Dozen, available between June 11 and June 14 at participating U.S. locations. It includes:

  • Kickoff Donuts: unglazed, Cookies and Kreme-filled donut with green cookie dough icing, as well as soccer field lines and a soccer ball piece

  • Soccer Rainbow Donuts: Original Glazed donut with vanilla icing, dipped in rainbow sprinkles with a soccer ball piece

  • Fan favorites: Original Glazed and Iced Chocolate with sprinkles

Customers can also score a $2 Original Glazed dozen when they purchase another dozen or the 16-count Minis through June 14.

McDonald's

McDonald's launched a FIFA World Cup meal on June 4, which includes limited-edition collectible cups featuring Grimace or any of the following soccer stars: Christian Pulisic, David Beckham, Ronaldinho Gaucho, Thierry Henry, Son Heung-Min, Lamine Yamal, Alphonso Davies, and Santiago Gimenez. The meal costs between $10 and $12, depending on location, and customers can choose between a Big Mac and a 10-piece McNugget box for lunch/dinner or a Sausage Biscuit with egg or a Sausage McMuffin with egg for breakfast.

The chain is also letting kids get in on the action with a Happy Meal version. It includes 23 options of Squishmallow plushies, including World Cup mascots.

Subway

On the days the U.S. plays its Group Stage games (June 12, June 19, June 25), Subway is offering Sub Club members a 40% discount on any footlong if the U.S. wins. The offer will be added to Sub Club accounts the following day.

TGI Fridays

On the longest Friday of the year, June 19, TGI Fridays is offering Matchday Bites starting at $8.99, Matchday Platters starting at $14.99, Red and Yellow Card margaritas, $5 GOOOAL Shooters, $5 drafts, and $20 buckets.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Should you buy a robot vacuum before Prime Day? I test them for a living and found some early deals to eye.

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 16:43
A quick look at the best robot vacuum deals ahead of Prime Day Best robot vacuum on sale overall Dreame L60 Ultra FE $849.99 at Amazon (save $250 at Amazon) Get Deal Best mid-range robot vacuum deal Eufy C28 $529.99 at Amazon (save $270 at Amazon) Get Deal Best budget robot vacuum deal Roborock Q10 S5+ $329.99 at Amazon (save $270 at Amazon) Get Deal

Don't ask ChatGPT which robot vacuum you should buy on Prime Day — ask the person who has tested nearly 40 robot vacuums in their own home. Most of the best robot vacuums of the past few years, including new 2026 models, will be on sale for Prime Day between June 23 and June 26. But if your floors need automated cleaning earlier than the end of the month, I found a handful of worthwhile robot vacuums on sale to buy ahead of Prime Day.

That doesn't just refer to the models with the biggest discounts. I've further whittled down the list to the robot vacuums with the best ratio of cleaning specs and smart features compared to their sale price.

SEE ALSO: HGTV hive, rise up: The best Shark robot vacuum and cordless stick vacuum just dropped in 4 earth tones

For example, the Roborock Saros 10R that I loved last year is $500 off, now back at its record-low price of $999.99. That sounds like a steal until I remind you that you can get significantly more suction power for $749.99 with the Dreame L60 Ultra FE. The self-emptying Shark Navigator for $246.95 sounds great until you realize that just $30 more can get you mopping and small obstacle avoidance with the Roborock Q10 S5+. (If you're shopping for a really high-end robot vacuum, I'd wait for the Dreame X60 Max Ultra Complete or Narwal Flow 2 to go on sale.)

So, here are the early Prime Day deals on robot vacuums that are worth your time so far:

Best Amazon robot vacuum deal ahead of Prime Day Dreame L60 Ultra FE $849.99 at Amazon
$999.99 Save $150   Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it

Not to rope the Roborock Saros 10R back into it, but it really does make the Dreame L60 Ultra FE's value stand out. This model was just released at the end of April 2026, and its 30,000 Pa suction power isn't too far off from the 35,000 Pa of the most powerful Dreame robot vacuum. With accurate AI obstacle avoidance and heated self-washing mopping pads thrown in, this is a really solid vacuum for less than $800.

I can personally attest to the L60 Ultra FE's cleaning power for the price — it's currently sitting in my living room. I'm a sucker for the corner mopping of a spinning mopping pad, which still squeezes into 90-degree angles better than roller mop robot vacuums that can slide out to clean edges. This Dreame model has done a commendable job with cat litter, crumbs under the kitchen counter, and cat scratcher flecks stuck in the rug.

Deals on robot vacuum mop combos (+ self-washing mopping pads)Budget robot vacuum and mop deals

Note: You don't need to be a Prime member to shop these early deals, but that will change come the official Prime Day kickoff on June 23.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Spotify adds editor videos to New Music Friday. We asked its curators why.

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 16:02

For years, Spotify's New Music Friday has been one of the app's most influential playlists, helping millions of listeners discover new releases every week. But starting today, the platform is making a subtle change to one of its biggest products: It's putting the actual people responsible for curating it front and center.

Listeners in the U.S. will now find short-form videos from Spotify's editorial team embedded directly within New Music Friday. The clips feature editors explaining why they're excited about certain releases, highlighting emerging artists, and sharing the stories behind songs they think listeners should know about.

SEE ALSO: Spotify's new Reserved feature could make concert ticketing less miserable

The new experience combines New Music Friday with The Drop Weekly, Spotify's editor-led video series that launched last year. According to the company, listeners have responded strongly to those more personal recommendations, generating more than double the engagement through saves and likes.

The move arrives at a moment when music discovery is increasingly shaped by algorithms. Streaming services like Spotify can instantly generate playlists based on listening habits, while AI tools promise increasingly personalized recommendations. According to Spotify's music editors, that's exactly why human perspectives matter more than ever.

"I would argue that they want that more and demand more of that," Alaysia Sierra, Spotify's head of R&B editorial, told Mashable when asked whether listeners still value hearing directly from human curators. "I think there's no better time to remind people that humans are here and still doing the work. Connection is something we're all deeply craving, and that's why humanizing recommendation and discovery feels especially important."

It may also be worth noting that human-curated playlists are less likely to surface AI-generated music, since editors tend to prioritize artists and stories they find meaningful and worth championing.

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For Spotify's editorial team, the goal is bigger than simply recommending a song. It's providing the context that turns a casual listen into a lasting connection.

"We live in an era where anyone could listen to any song at any moment," said Cecilia Winter, editorial lead for Global Hits. "It's the act of both sifting through and actually finding the great stuff, but also moving into a space where we're sharing more context around it that's really going to create that stickier connection."

That idea came up repeatedly during Mashable's conversations with Spotify's editors. In their view, discovery isn't just about surfacing music; it's about helping listeners understand why a song matters. It's not so much about who you should be listening to but why. That's a role music media has traditionally filled. Publications like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork connect artists to larger cultural conversations and give audiences a framework for understanding what's worth paying attention to and why.

"The context is the discovery in a way," said Carla Turi, Spotify's senior editor for Folk & Indie. "Knowing that a song came out of a specific moment or that an artist was responding to something or someone in their lyrics, I think it completely changes how you experience music."

For Sierra, that work is especially important in R&B, a genre they describe as "cultural and rich and evolving" but one that can still be overlooked in broader music conversations. The challenge, they said, is identifying artists before everyone else catches on. While Spotify's editors have access to listener data and trend signals, Sierra often trusts a simpler metric: whether they can't stop replaying a song herself.

"If I keep going back to the song and wanting to replay it and it's making me feel this way, then I know that—or hope that—other people will feel the same way too," they said.

One of the biggest shifts they're watching right now is the globalization of R&B. Sierra pointed to a growing wave of artists emerging from the UK, including Cleo Sol, Elmiene, Sasha Keable, and Kwn, as evidence of the genre's continued evolution beyond traditional geographic boundaries.

"You just get these constant markers that something is obviously happening," they said. "All of these artists from this space are being loved and received and growing."

The new videos also pull back the curtain on a process most listeners never see. The New Music Friday playlist is assembled through a highly collaborative editorial process. Throughout the week, genre specialists and cultural experts from across Spotify meet to discuss upcoming releases, share songs they're excited about, and debate which should be included on the playlist.

Spotify isn't alone in this approach. Major streaming competitors, including Apple Music and Amazon Music, also employ editorial teams to curate playlists and shape music discovery. These videos offer a rare look at how that process works inside the world's largest music streaming service.

"When it comes to what makes it onto the list, there are many factors we balance," Winter said. "Obviously, we want to reflect the major news stories and moments that will be interesting to a broad audience. But we also want to showcase artists across genres that we’re especially excited about as editors and music experts."

That work extends well beyond listening sessions. Editors track audience behavior on Spotify, follow online communities, attend concerts, and maintain relationships with labels. They also regularly compare notes with colleagues around the world to identify emerging scenes before they reach the mainstream. The approach has more in common with traditional music journalism than the purely data-driven image often associated with streaming platforms.

Turi pointed to conversations with Spotify's international editorial teams as one example. A few years ago, editors in the Nordic region began highlighting a growing underground dream-pop and alt-pop scene emerging from Copenhagen. Before long, those sounds started spreading across markets and influencing artists elsewhere, and Spotify launched Cph+, its own dedicated playlist to the scene.

The example underscores how Spotify's editorial operation can function as more than a mirror of listener behavior. The company's biggest playlists—including New Music Friday, RapCaviar, mint, and Lorem—have become influential tastemakers in their own right, capable of introducing emerging artists to millions of listeners and helping shape what breaks into the mainstream.

Still, the editors insist there's no shortcut to discovering what's next.

"We're listening to music pretty much all day," Winter said. "There isn't really any shortcut to listening to music all day and identifying, OK, I'm starting to hear a lot of the same trend, or a lot of the same use of an instrument, or the same style in a way that I wasn't hearing six months ago."

The editors are also paying close attention to the next wave of sounds. Turi highlighted the post-hyperpop, alternative scene emerging around artists like 2hollis, MGNA Crrrta, and Ninajirachi, while Sierra said they're excited about the growing role music videos could play in music discovery on Spotify.

As for what they're listening to right now? Sierra recommends the rising artist nomi's "Sweet Talk"; Turi has Chanel Beads' "Song for the Messenger" on repeat; and Winter picked "L.U.C.K.Y" by New York duo Fcukers as one of her songs of the summer.

"It's a really nice song for walking around and feeling like the main character," Winter said.

Adding editor videos to New Music Friday won't fundamentally change how Spotify recommends music. But the feature speaks to something bigger.

More and more, platforms are realizing that people don't just follow recommendations; they follow people. It's why creators matter. It's why newsletters have become more personal. It's why publications increasingly ask reporters to step in front of the camera and build direct relationships with audiences, rather than hide behind the byline.

Spotify's editors aren't all that different. The recommendation itself still matters, but increasingly, so does knowing who's making it. The person behind the playlist becomes part of the discovery experience. And in the age of AI overviews and automated discovery, the value of a recommendation often comes down to the person making it.

As Sierra put it, it's a reminder that there are still humans behind the headphones.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Dell’s 16-inch XPS revival is a return to form for the beleaguered US PC maker

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 15:24

Dell's revivified XPS 16 is a pricey, premium laptop for well-heeled shoppers. Its sleek chassis, peppy performance, and attractive extras (notably, an OLED touch screen) justify the expense if you're shopping for a high-end desktop replacement.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Last House trailer traps Greta Lee and Wagner Moura in their home

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 15:00

Netflix loves a twisty sci-fi in which regular folks get suddenly trapped inside their home with no means of escape. Brick blew our minds, and now another mysterious sci-fi snare is set to to arrive in The Last House, with a tense new trailer out today.

Greta Lee and Wagner Moura star in this thriller from director Louis Leterrier (Now You See Me), with the Past Lives and The Secret Agent stars playing couple Ann and Jason, who find themselves and their kids sealed inside their house. Like the Ultrahouse 3000 from The Simpsons, the house appears to have a mind of its own, pushing its inhabitants into survival mode within their own home.

Gabriel Barbosa, Emma Ho, Noah Alexander Sosnowski, and Riley Chung also star.

The Last House is streaming on Netflix on Aug. 7.

Want more of the latest entertainment news, reviews, trailers, and interviews? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Daily Shows Desi Lydic has a brutal response to Trump seeing 22 medical specialists

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 14:39

Despite frequently bragging about his health, as Donald Trump nears his 80th birthday he certainly seems to be meeting with a lot of healthcare professionals — and Daily Show host Desi Lydic shared her thoughts on the matter.

"This weekend is his birthday, and he made it to 80 — with a little help," said Lydic during Thursday's show, before throwing to a Washington Post article about Trump reportedly being seen by 22 different medical specialists. "No wonder I can't get a doctor's appointment, half the medical profession is busy duct-taping together the world's healthiest man."

Ouch.

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Categories: IT General, Technology

Elon Musk seemingly found the cheat code for capitalism. The SpaceX IPO proves it.

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 14:26

Elon Musk, who has effectively admitted cheating at video games, may have found the ultimate cheat code that will turn him into the first trillionaire in the global game of capitalism.

That may well be the story of the SpaceX IPO, for which the company filed its SEC-mandated S1 form Thursday. The document was stuffed with eye-poppingly dubious claims about SpaceX's future as an AI company, as well as eye-wateringly embarrassing admissions about SpaceX, its new subsidiary xAI, and Grok.

And yet, none of these pokes in the eye seem to stop SpaceX from eyeing a record $1.75 trillion valuation.

SEE ALSO: Why SpaceX bought xAI: Data centers in space aren't the only reason What's in the SpaceX IPO? SpaceX's Starship at Orbital Launch Pad 2 at Starbase, Texas, on May 21, 2026. Credit: Joe Marino / UPI / Shutterstock

To explain how bizarre the filing really is, and how deeply it might sink other offerings, let's first ignore the words Spacex xAI, Grok, Elon and Musk. Instead, just imagine you're telling your financial advisor you want shares in a new-to-market space launch company.

This company lost nearly $5 billion last year, on $18 billion of revenue. The revenue makes it look tiny, and its losses are increasing. But so is its revenue, so you have high hopes for its future.

OK, says your financial advisor, raising a quizzical eyebrow. A risky bet, but those can pay off big sometimes. What's the angle?

Well, you reply, the CEO is all in on AI. This space launch company is actually an AI company now, since it merged in a hurry earlier this year with one of the CEO's other companies, one he described as "the smallest" of the major AI players. The merger was a millstone, the cause of most of the combined company's losses.

Who's the creator you tell everyone to follow? Vote for them in Mashable's Fan Fav.

Still, AI's connection to the space launch business makes total sense. The CEO says he's going to launch AI data centers in space starting in 2028. And you totally believe that, despite this guy having a long history of making bold space-based predictions that don't come to pass.

Do space AI data centers even make sense? Who knows! "The conditions of space on such AI infrastructure have not been tested, by us or anyone else," notes the IPO. "Any component failures could result in permanent capacity loss" — since there are no IT guys up there to fix them.

But hey, what could make sensitive data center components fail in space? I mean, apart from the list in the company's S-1 filing: geomagnetic storms, solar flares, cosmic radiation, micrometeorites, orbital debris, as well as the vibration and thermal shock from launching them in the first place. Oh, and "the useful life of our satellites is inherently shorter than that of the information technology systems and infrastructure they host," the filing also says, but you're trying not to think about what that means in a data center business.

SEE ALSO: Why SpaceX bought xAI: Data centers in space aren't the only reason

Eh, regulatory filings can be such Debbie Downers! What matters is this guy really believes in his AI product, right? So much so that SpaceX's IPO claims a $26.5 trillion addressable AI market (compared to the space launch and Starlink connectivity market, for which it only claims a total potential of $2 trillion). That AI product, by the way, comes in "Unhinged Voice mode" and "Spicy Imagine mode." The IPO notes its "heightened risks" of "reputational harm," not to mention regulatory and legal harm, thanks to "potentially explicit content ... misinformation ... exploitative imagery, intellectual property infringement," or "harmful, harassing, abusive, or discriminatory" content.

What could possibly go wrong?

Well, apart from the international investigations that have opened up into whether this company's product was used to make nonconsensual deepfakes of minors, as the IPO is also required to note. (You can almost hear the deep sighs of the lawyers who wrote this — but at least they didn't have to mention the whole MechaHitler thing.)

Speaking of legal harm, you also have no problem with the $3 billion in new data center gas turbine purchases revealed by the IPO, even though this is doubling down on harm for which the company already faces a huge lawsuit from environmental groups. After all, this guy has a history of winning most of his legal battles! Just pay no attention to the last one, where he flouted a court order by skipping off to China, and a jury found he had no right to bring the case in the first place.

Given all that information in the abstract, many financial advisors would advise you the company isn't worth the risk — if they don't advise you to get your head checked.

The cheat code at Tesla Tesla's Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg in Grünheide, Germany. Credit: Joko / imageBROKER / Shutterstock

In the case of SpaceX, however, your financial advisor may be rushing to invest before you do. The IPO sets 30 percent of shares aside for so-called "retail investors," an unusually high percentage; arguably they're more likely to bet on a name, a personality, a legend, than a company's fundamentals.

The reason, essentially, amounts to five words: "never bet against Elon Musk." First uttered by fellow Paypal billionaire and friend Peter Thiel, then SpaceX investor Peter Diamandis, this rallying cry has been taken up by the CEOs of Morgan Stanley and Breyer Capital. It is an article of faith — literally, in articles that use it to wave away Musk's more baffling moves, from the design of the Cybertruck to the overpriced Twitter purchase. (Which, given that Musk turned Twitter into the less popular X, then folded it into xAI, and then folded that into SpaceX, may go down as the most buried sunk cost in business history.)

SEE ALSO: 'Sales suck monkey d*ck': Elon Musk's Tesla in 10 telling quotes

Musk long ago mastered the razzle-dazzle of business showmanship. He has learned to dance on ever-higher tightropes of promised futures. At a crucial moment in the early days of Tesla, he offered preorders for the Model S when its prototype didn't even exist yet. That lesson has come in handy in Tesla's Cybertruck era, when the company has been saddled with an odd looking, low-selling EV that is becoming ever more of a joke with every wheels-could-fall-off recall and watery misdirection, dogged by cheaper Chinese rivals, and boycotted by much of Europe.

In response, Musk simply squeezed billions more out of the company for the honor of having him stay, then pivoted Tesla towards another, bigger promised future. That future — one filled with humanoid robots and robotaxis — is about as airy, as unproven, and as full of pitfalls (literally, the Optimus robots fall over) as AI data centers in space. But at this stage, Musk can simply insist it's going to happen, then sit back and dare Tesla investors to bet against him.

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The Optimus robots, like the SpaceX data centers, "allow for near term demonstrations that look impressive but aren’t meaningfully revenue-generating, while allowing Musk to make long term projections of 'infinite' revenues that can be (nearly) infinitely postponed," noted Tim Farris, president of satellite and telecom industry research firm TMF Associates. The Rorschach test works for investors who want to believe in the "never bet against Musk" myth.

Never mind that "never bet against Musk" is far from literally true. In 2026, you can make money from short-selling (that is, betting against) Tesla stock, which is down just under 5 percent from where it was on Jan. 1. You could also have made a more than 30 percent return on the prediction markets in the past year, as one canny investor did, by predicting Musk's DOGE side quest would ultimately fail.

There are signs of cracks in Wall Street's wall of belief in Tesla. Last year was the company's first ever revenue decline on the books. Tesla investors are reportedly nervous that the SpaceX IPO is going to cost them — SpaceX, one major Tesla investor groused to Fortune, will become Musk's "new baby."

But Musk only has to dance ahead of the Tesla wave a little while longer. If all goes according to plan, and the AI bubble doesn't burst before he can bring his shiny new space AI baby to market next month, a Musk army of retail investors will help turn airy promises into a trillion dollars of net worth for their hero.

And then...we're boldly going where no economist has gone before. With access to that much capital and that much voting power — Musk will control 85 percent of the vote at SpaceX, making him virtually impossible to dislodge as CEO — there's no limit to the height of the tightrope he could dance on. It's not beyond the bounds of reason to imagine Musk folding a failing Tesla inside SpaceX, then dazzling investors by spinning ever more unproven plans for humanoid robots maintaining space data centers.

In the game of global capitalism, becoming a trillionaire may be the ultimate cheat code.

This article reflects the opinions of the author.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Roommate Therapy with Sesame Streets Bert and Ernie

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 14:11

Sunny day! Sesame Street's Bert and Ernie came to Mashable's Say More studio for a visit with Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko. Together, they talked about the importance of compromise when it comes to being a good roommate and ordering a pizza that can make everyone happy.

In this segment, which we're calling "Roommate Therapy," Mashable's Entertainment Reporter Belen Edwards and Senior Editor Shannon Connellan called in with questions for Bert and Ernie. They've been roommates for ages. So, who better to ask about how to handle sharing space and the best way to ensure some quiet time to yourself?

Bert and Ernie were happy to help, as you can see for yourself.

For more from Bert and Ernie and the whole Sesame Street family, check out Sesame Street: Volume 2, now streaming on Netflix.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Exclusive: Nothing headphones and smartphones are now available at Best Buy in the US

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 14:00

Nothing, the London-based brand behind retro-inspired tech like the Headphone (1) and Phone (4a) Pro, is making its way to brick-and-mortar stores in the U.S. Beginning June 12, the Phone (4a) Pro, Headphone (a), Phone (3), and Ear (3) are available in more than 500 Best Buy stores across the country.

According to data from Canalys, Nothing achieved a 120 percent boost in unit sales and a 175 percent revenue increase in the U.S. alone in 2025, making it one of the world's fastest-growing consumer technology brands. Nothing debuted in Best Buy Canada last year and has now made its way to the States.

We've tested Nothing's headphones, smartphones, and watches, and have come away impressed every time. Now, shoppers in the U.S. will be able to go hands-on with Nothing's products before purchasing.

SEE ALSO: Review: The Nothing Headphone (a) are the best headphones from the brand yet

"Nothing exists to challenge the status quo in consumer technology," said Carl Pei, Chief Executive Officer at Nothing, in a press release. "We’re here to remind people that tech can still be fun, rebellious, and different. As more U.S. consumers are drawn to this ethos, we are excited to make our products more accessible to show them first-hand what makes Nothing special."

Nothing products have distinctive designs that set them apart from other brands on the market. The Nothing Headphone (1) earned a spot on our list of the most stylish headphones. See Nothing's audio and mobile offerings for yourself in person at select Best Buy stores and online at BestBuy.com.

Shop Nothing at Best Buy Nothing Headphone (a) $299 at Best Buy Shop Now Nothing Ear (3) $179 at Best Buy Shop Now Nothing Ear (a) $79 at Best Buy Shop Now Nothing Phone (4a) Pro Starting at $499.99 at Best Buy Shop Now
Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Strands hints, answers for June 12, 2026

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 13:33

Today's NYT Strands hints are easy if you're good with essays.

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 June 10, 2026 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Something to talk about

The words are related to making an argument.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are used to create a speech.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

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

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Parts of Speech.

NYT Strands word list for June 11
  • Hook

  • Body

  • Conclusion

  • Problem

  • Topic

  • Point

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

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for June 12, 2026

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 13:33

The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult if you like animals.

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 June 10, 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: Spellcasting

  • Green: Animals

  • Blue: Over and over again

  • Purple: Running water

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

Here are today's Connections categories

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

  • Yellow: Starting with Incantations

  • Green: Starting with Animal Group Names

  • Blue: Starting with Synonyms for "Repeat"

  • Purple: Starting with Parts of a River

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 #1096 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Starting with Incantations: CHARM BRACELET, CURSE WORD, HEX KEY, SPELL CHECKER

  • Starting with Animal Group Names: MURDER MYSTERY, PACK RAT, PRIDE ROCK, SCHOOL DAYS

  • Starting with Synonyms for "Repeat": COPY EDITOR, ECHO PARK, MIRROR SELFIE, QUOTE UNQUOTE

  • Starting with Parts of a River: BANK TELLER, BED HEAD, DELTA AIRLINES, MOUTH GUARD

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 June 10, 2026

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

Wordle today: Answer, hints for June 12, 2026

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 13:33

Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you like taking things apart.

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 June 10, 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 June 10, 2026 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Separate in parts.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

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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.

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Categories: IT General, Technology

Legos Ideas Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. set gets a $14 discount at Amazon ahead of Prime Day

Fri, 06/12/2026 - 13:24

SAVE OVER $10: As of June 12, the Lego Ideas Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. set (#21357) is discounted to $55.99 at Amazon. This is $14 off its full price of $69.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego LEGO Ideas Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. (#21357) $55.99 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $14.00   Get Deal

In what feels like perfect timing with Toy Story 5 coming out soon, the delightful Lego Ideas Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. set (#21357) has been discounted at Amazon before the retailer's big Prime Day sale. As of June 12, this Lego set is marked down to $55.99.

This saves $14 over its full price of $69.99, but it's also just pennies away from its lowest-ever price at the retailer. According to price tracker camelcamelcamel, it was $55.95, so why not take this opportunity to scoop it up for a Pixar fan in your life? Again, with Toy Story 5 releasing soon, the timing couldn't be better to build it.

SEE ALSO: How to sign up for Amazon Prime in time for Prime Day

This Lego set - comprised of 613 pieces and recommended for adults ages 18 and up - brings to brick-built life adorable Luxo Jr., the little lamp who first appeared in Disney Pixar's animated short of the same name, back in 1986. Luxo Jr. is fully poseable, too, so you can display it however you like once it's fully pieced together. You'll also piece together the ball that Luxo Jr. knocks around, which is a very fun touch.

If the Lego Ideas Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. set has been on your radar, now is a fantastic time to scoop it up at Amazon and save.

If you're curious what other Lego sets are worth picking up right now, check out our rundown of the 10 best Lego sets of 2026 so far to see some of our favorites.

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Categories: IT General, Technology

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