Mashable
SCOTUS: Feds need a warrant to scoop up your phones location data
The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that police must obtain warrants to conduct wide searches of cell phone data at crime scenes, also known as "geofence" searches.
In its ruling on Chatrie v. United States, the justices said that Americans are entitled to privacy with the location data their phones track, even if they consent to sharing it with tech companies like Google and Apple.
The case involved Okello T. Chatrie, a man convicted of robbing a Virginia bank in 2019. Prosecutors obtained a warrant for a geofence search that captured location data near the bank around the time of the robbery and, as a result, identified Chatrie as a suspect. Geofence searches draw a digital fence around a crime scene and pull data from all digital devices within that space.
Even with the warrant, Chatrie's lawyers claimed the government sought an "overly broad set of data that violated the Fourth Amendment," the New York Times reports. The Fourth Amendment protects Americans from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government.
SEE ALSO: The FCC's proposed plan to fight spam calls puts consumer privacy in jeopardyThe Justice Department claimed the government did not need a warrant to view anonymous location data, especially since users had already acquiesced to tech companies tracking that data. A majority of the justices disagreed.
"An individual has a reasonable expectation of privacy in records about his cell phone’s location, and police intrude on that constitutionally protected interest when they demand the information — even though for only a limited time, and from a third-party tech company," Justice Elena Kagan wrote for the majority. Kagan was joined in the decision by Justices Roberts, Sotomayor, Jackson, Kavanaugh, and Gorsuch (the latter agreed with the ruling but not its rationale, according to the Times).
Most smartphone track user location every few minutes, though users can view, edit, and delete that data. Google Maps is one of the most common ways Big Tech tracks movements, with more than 1 billion daily users. Chatrie's lawyers argued to the justices that his location data was private since it was password-protected.
Google has tried to get ahead of the legal complications surrounding data tracking. The company announced three years ago that it would store location data on individual phones rather than on Google servers, allowing it to avoid complying with location requests.
Even though Google found a workaround, the government has requested such location data from other companies, including Apple, Microsoft, Snapchat, and Uber.
While the justices ruled on the broader legality of the government seeking private data, they did not rule on the warrant used in the Chatrie case, instead sending it back to an appeals court.
Sidney Raskind tells Mashable the story of his 15-year journey to TikTok success
If there was one thing content creator Sidney Raskind knew for sure when he graduated high school, it's that he didn't want a desk job.
It took him a little longer to realize that he had even more clarity than that — he wanted to be a YouTuber (spoiler alert: he did it). Mashable caught up with him at VidCon 2026 to learn more about the journey that behind his graduation, to the content that helped him break through and go full time — life hacks and, as Raskind's says in nearly all his videos, things he didn't know until he was in his 30s.
What kept him going?
"I used to say spite," he joked with Mashable reporter Bethany Allard. But more than proving that he could escape the clutches of a desk job, Raskind knew he had a passion, and one that he could find success with. Especially since the barrier to entry for making videos online wasn't too high.
SEE ALSO: These are Sidney Raz's content essentials after nearly 20 years as a creator"When I came to the very first VidCon, I was, I was looking on stage and I thought, 'I can do this, too,'" he said.
With 4.6 million followers on TikTok and the title of being a featured creator at VidCon, it's clear Raskin was on to something. As for folks who hope to one day make it too, Raskind offered this:
" My biggest piece of advice is something that Seth Rogen said, which is, 'If you stop, you won't, you will always not get there. But if you keep trying and you keep going, then there is a possibility that you will get there.' It took me 15 years to figure out the content format and general understanding until it worked, and I just never stopped stopping, as they say in 'Popstar'."
You can watch the whole interview above, and for all things VidCon, Mashable has you covered.
The top Android 17 features to get excited about
Google just launched a new version of Android. It might take a bit to install, so you might as well brush up on what it has to offer while you wait.
Android 17 officially launched earlier this month, so if you have a Pixel or Samsung phone, you might as well get the download started. It brings several new features to play with, so without wasting any more time, let's dig in. Here are some of the top Android 17 features to anticipate as you watch that install progress on your phone screen.
SEE ALSO: Google officially launches Android 17 Bubbles enable better multitasking Timely! Credit: GoogleA couple of these updates are intended for or best used on foldables or other "large screen devices," as Google calls them. The first one of these is Bubbles, an easy way to multitask on your mobile device.
All you have to do is long-press an app icon to turn it into a floating window that you can move around and resize as needed. It can live on top of another open app, so if you want to livestream a World Cup game in one window and react to it with your homies in a group chat at the same time, you can do that. It sounds very intuitive and useful, which is what we want to see out of any free software updates.
Better gaming on foldable devices That looks handy. Credit: GoogleSpeaking of foldables, Google has also enhanced the gaming experience on these devices with Android 17. If you have something like a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, you can orient it in landscape mode and use a new layout where the game is displayed on the top half of the screen, while a virtual controller is on the bottom half. A lot of mobile games overlay virtual controls on top of the gameplay, but this would theoretically allow you to game without all that stuff getting in the way. Another win for foldables.
Record screen reactions for your social feeds Everyone has to react to everything all the time. Credit: Screenshot: GoogleWe live in a world where everything warrants a reaction for social media. These days, that often takes the form of someone talking into their selfie camera in front of an image of whatever they're reacting to. With Android 17, you can do that easily. Google says it takes "just a few taps" to overlay yourself on top of an image or viral clip, at which point you can get to yapping about it. That engagement won't generate itself, folks, but Android 17 comes pretty close to doing it all for you.
Enhanced parental controlsParental controls are not necessarily "exciting" according to the dictionary definition of the word, but they are good and important. With Android 17, Google has added some much-needed new safety features for kids. They originally launched on Pixel devices late last year, but now they're available for everything that runs Android.
With these features, you can do things like filter Google Play downloads, set a time for the device to lock down every night, and set screen time limits for the young ones. None of these are revolutionary, but they are vital to making sure your kid doesn't develop a debilitating screen addiction.
Lock down your lost phone This might save a lot of headaches for people. Credit: GoogleLastly, we have another feature that may not be "exciting" in the traditional sense, but will absolutely save lots of money and prevent lots of stress for Android device owners.
Mark as Lost is a new feature that will allow you to remotely lock down a missing phone using Find Hub. Even if the amoral brigand who pilfered your device has your PIN, they won't be able to open the phone without your biometrics. You may not be able to get the phone back, but they won't be able to do anything with it, either.
Serena Williams returns to Wimbledon after nearly 4 years away from singles
A first-round match at Wimbledon is not usually treated like the main event. Serena Williams’ return is one of the exceptions.
Williams, 44, is set to play 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint on Tuesday, June 30, in her first Wimbledon singles match since 2022, and tennis fans are abuzz with anticipation.
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.Williams has not played a singles match since the 2022 U.S. Open, where she "evolved away" from professional tennis after a third-round loss to Ajla Tomljanovic. In the years since, she has had a second child, expanded her business life, and moved into the kind of post-tennis chapter most fans assumed was permanent.
SEE ALSO: Serena Williams dances in Kendrick Lamar's halftime show. Yes, there's an alleged Drake connection.The comeback did not come out of nowhere. Williams has been inching back onto the court since 2025. But the singles decision, according to Williams, was not automatic. At her pre-tournament press conference, she said Wimbledon had held a wild card for her and that she was still unsure until the final days before the draw.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.Part of the hesitation, Williams said, came from what returning to professional tennis required off the court. To compete again, she had to re-enter tennis’ anti-doping testing pool and make herself available under the sport’s whereabouts rules, which require players to provide a daily one-hour testing window and keep officials updated on where they can be found.
Williams told reporters that the process has been "grueling," especially as someone balancing tennis with children, travel, and running multiple businesses. She said she understands why testing is necessary, but argued that parts of the system feel unreasonable for players whose lives do not fit neatly into one location or one schedule.
Ultimately, though, "I thought I should really take this opportunity,” Williams said. “Who knows if I’ll ever make it here again? This could be it.”
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.Williams has won seven Wimbledon singles titles and 23 Grand Slam singles titles overall. This time, though, Williams has said her expectations are different. She has talked less about chasing history and more about enjoying the chance to compete again.
Tennis players have spoken about the comeback as a major moment for the sport. Novak Djokovic called it "inspirational" and "epic," while Aryna Sabalenka said Williams' return is bringing more eyes to tennis. Online, fans have followed her practice sessions, press conference quotes, wild-card news, and even prediction-market movement around whether she would actually take the court.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.But the reaction has not been entirely celebratory.
Williams’ wild card has also reopened a debate about access and fairness at Grand Slam tournaments. Wild cards are discretionary entries, meaning tournaments can award them to players who do not qualify strictly through ranking. In Williams’ case, Wimbledon left its final women’s singles wild-card spot open before giving it to her.
That decision has frustrated some fans, who argue that a player active on tour could have used that spot, and Williams should remain retired.
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.On the other hand, Williams' draw is also bringing eyes to her opponent, Maya Joint. Joint was born after Williams had already won several Grand Slam titles, and she has spoken about Williams with nothing but respect.
“It’s an honor,” Joint told the WTA. “I always dreamed about playing Serena Williams, and if you’d told me 10 years ago that I’d be playing her first round at Wimbledon, that’s just crazy.”
Nevertheless, a win over Williams at Wimbledon would be career-cementing for her.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.The result could become a Serena comeback moment, a Maya Joint breakout, or simply an early look at what this version of Williams can still bring to the court. Either way, it has already become bigger than a normal first-round match, and us at Mashable will be tuning in.
How to watch Germany vs. Paraguay online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Germany vs. Paraguay in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN, an Official Supporter of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage is now well underway. Next on the schedule is Germany vs. Paraguay — one of three big knockout fixtures taking place on June 29.
Germany looked good in their opening group game, dismantling Curacao 7-1. But the Germans — four-time World Cup winners — looked shaky against Ivory Coast then lost to Ecuador 2-1.
They'll be looking for a decisive win to prove the tough times are over (don't forget, they failed to get to this point at the last two World Cups). Paraguay are certainly beatable, but nothing is certain at this level and Paraguay looked solid in the group stage.
If you want to watch Germany vs. Paraguay in the 2026 FIFA World Cup from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Germany vs. Paraguay?Germany vs. Paraguay in the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off at 4.30 p.m. ET on June 29. This fixture takes place at Boston Stadium.
How to watch Germany vs. Paraguay for freeGermany vs. Paraguay in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock BBC iPlayer to live stream the 2026 World Cup for free from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Germany vs. Paraguay for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit BBC iPlayer
Watch Germany vs. Paraguay for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the 2026 World Cup without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Germany vs. Paraguay (plus more World Cup fixtures) before recovering your investment.
ExpressVPN's regular 30-day money-back guarantee is not available for any subscriptions purchased during the FIFA World Cup between June 10 and July 11. ExpressVPN remains our top pick for sport, but you will need to pay the monthly rate. Alternatively, Proton VPN still offers that all-important money-back guarantee.
What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including the UK
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to 10 simultaneous connections
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99. That covers you for the duration of the World Cup.
Live stream Germany vs. Paraguay in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free.
Leaker claims the PlayStation 6 costs Sony $960 to manufacture
A well-known leaker in the gaming hardware space claimed this week that it costs Sony nearly $1,000 to make its upcoming PlayStation 6 console. If true, the console's eventual retail price could be significantly higher.
According to KeplerL2, a leaker known for accurate gaming hardware leaks, Sony's costs to manufacture its upcoming PlayStation 6 console recently went up by $200. Kepler2 reported earlier this year that, due to rising costs, the PlayStation 6's bill of materials was at $760. So, the leaker now says that ever-increasing costs have pushed the manufacturing cost of the PlayStation 6 to a whopping $960.
The AI boom continues to cause massive supply issues for computer chips, storage, and memory worldwide. That's led to a wave of price increases in the gaming world, with all of the big console makers raising prices. Most recently, Microsoft announced that it will raise prices on the current generation of Xbox consoles by as much as $150 starting in August.
SEE ALSO: Valve's Steam Machine officially has a price, and it's a doozySupply chain experts interviewed by Mashable say that the memory shortage known as RAMageddon could get worse before it gets better. That's bad news for gamers looking forward to the next generation of consoles, like the highly anticipated PlayStation 6. For instance, the soon-to-be-released Steam Machine console recently arrived with a whopping $1,049 price tag.
How much the Sony PlayStation 6 could costWhat does this report mean for gamers? Basically, it's highly unlikely that Sony would sell the PlayStation 6 for below cost. In fact, gaming news outlet Kotaku points to a recent Sony Q&A posted on its corporate website where the company says they're not looking to sell the console for less than it costs Sony.
“As for pricing, it is not realistic for us to absorb all the component cost increases, and we have already implemented some price increases outside of Japan," Sony said in reply to a question about pricing for its next generation video game consoles. “As a principle, we do not intend to sell hardware at significant losses.”
This means that consumers are likely looking at a $1,000 PlayStation 6 — and that's without Sony making any profit.
AI companies have only ramped up the supply and demand issues. Earlier this year, hard drive manufacturer Western Digital shared that it expects shortages to continue as the company has already sold out its storage supply for 2026 and AI companies are already buying up supply well into 2028.
Sony is reportedly still targeting a release date for the PlayStation 6 for the 2027 holiday season. However, there have been previous reports that suggested that the ongoing memory shortages could potentially push that launch date beyond next year.
Are gamers willing to buy the latest gaming console at exorbitant prices, or will it make more sense to wait out the supply issues and launch at a lower price? That's a calculation that Sony has to make.
The Owala FreeSip is back down to its Prime Day price
Save 20%: As of June 29, grab the Owala FreeSip (24 ounces) for just $23.99 at Amazon. Typically, this bottle costs $6 more at $29.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Owala Owala FreeSip $23.66 at Amazon$29.99 Save $6.33 Get Deal
We've made it no secret that we're fans of the Owala FreeSip.
At least half of Mashable's shopping team owns the water bottle, and for good reason. The FreeSip spout truly gives the best of both worlds experience, with a straw opening for sipping and a larger spout for swigging. Best of all, as of June 29, the 24 ounce version of the Owala FreeSip is back down to its Prime Day price of $23.99 in select colors, saving you 20% on the $29.99 list price.
Beyond having two different ways to use it, the Owala has a lot of smart design choices. There's the lockable cap that keeps the straw component covered when not in use, and the part of that lock that doubles as a handle for easy carrying on the go. There's the insulation that can easily keep water cold all day long, and the dishwasher-safe lid and straw. The main pain point with this water bottle is the base, which may not fit into every cupholder.
That said, at the time of writing you can also grab some colorways of the FreeSip Sway on sale, which has a cupholder-friendly base.
Shop for a new mattress during 4th of July sales when you can take up to 60% off
Summer is a tough time to get sleep. The sun rises earlier, sets later, and it's hot. All of that on top of a schedule filled with trips, summer camps, and backyard gatherings is a recipe for a season of bad sleep. If you're not interested in sacrificing sleep this summer, the 4th of July is one of the best times to make bedroom upgrades.
Much like Memorial Day, mattresses and bedding essentials like sheets and pillows tend to see exceptional discounts around the 4th of July holiday. That's great news for keeping high-quality sleep a priority over the summer. Here are some of our favorite 4th of July mattress and bedding deals if you're in need of a refresh.
Best mattress deal Opens in a new window Credit: Bear Bear Original Hyrbid Mattress (queen) $834.60 at Bear$1,284 Save $449.40 Get Deal Why we like it
By now you've probably heard that a hybrid mattress offers the comfort of an all-foam bed with the support of a coil mattress. The only problem is that hybrid mattresses tend to be expensive. That's not the case today thanks to the Bear 4th of July sale. The new Bear Original Hybrid is on sale for only $834.60 in a queen size, down from the normal price of $1,284.
Bear mentions that this mattress is ideal for those who like a medium-firm bed that can help regulate hot summer temps. It can also be nice for those who deal with joint pain, or side sleepers who struggle with pressure points while sleeping.
Bear has a 120-night sleep trial, so you can try out the bed at home for four months while still being eligible for a return if you don't love it.
More mattress dealsAvocado: Save up to 15% on organic mattresses
Brooklyn Bedding: Take to 30% off sitewide
DreamCloud: Save up to 60% on mattresses and 66% on bundles
Eight Sleep: Take up to $500 off Pods and accessories
Tuft & Needle: Save 25% on all bundles
Saatva: Take up to $650 off mattresses or ip to $750 off bundles
$507 Save $154.13 Get Deal Why we like it
Brooklinen has become one of the most trusted brands for those who want comfortable but durable sheets. The brand's 4th of July sale takes 30% off sheet bundles like the Classic Percale Hardcore Sheet Bundle. Percale is the perfect material for summer since it's made of a breathable and natural cotton fiber. The bundle includes the classic percale core sheet set (fitted sheet, flat sheet, two pillowcases), the percale duvet cover, and two extra pillowcases. Plus, it comes in a great range of colorway and print options.
More bedding dealsBaloo: Save $30 on weighted throw blanket + cotton duvet cover bundle
Coyuchi: Take up to 40% off
Cozy Earth: Take 20% off bedding bundles
Ettitude: Take up to 25% off sitewide and up to 70% off final sale
Naturepedic: Take 20% off organic bedding + get a free muslin blanket
Silk & Snow: Take 20% off all sheets
T-Mobile will automatically upgrade some legacy phone plans to higher-price plans
UPDATE: Jun. 29, 2026, 12:39 p.m. EDT This article has been updaded to add a statement from T-Mobile.
If you've been quietly riding out an old T-Mobile plan for the last decade or so, that ride is about to end.
T-Mobile is automatically migrating thousands of customers on legacy plans to its current lineup of plans, the company confirmed to CNET, with affected subscribers beginning to receive notification via text or the T-Life app today. The switch will take effect within the next few billing cycles and applies to both individual customers and some small businesses. (Disclosure: CNET and Mashable are both owned by the same parent company, Ziff Davis.)
SEE ALSO: AT&T commits to ending DEI programs while seeking government approvalT-Mobile didn't specify which plans are being retired, but per CNET, a company representative said some stretch back 10 to 15 years, including Simple Choice, T-Mobile One, and grandfathered Sprint plans from the carrier's 2020 merger.
Customers will be moved to comparable options within T-Mobile's current lineup, including Essentials, Experience More, and Experience Beyond. For some, that means a price increase, though T-Mobile chief marketing officer Allan Samson told CNET the new rate will still typically be lower than what a new customer would pay for the same plan today.
A T-Mobile spokesperson gave Mashable the following statement:
We’re retiring our oldest plans, some of which were built nearly 15 years ago – in the 3G and 4G eras, and well before our 5G network was fully deployed. Customers will transition to modern plans that provide access to America’s best wireless technology, enhanced features and a 5-year price guarantee for peace of mind. Some customers will see no change to their monthly bill, while some will see a modest adjustment. Every customer moved to a new plan will keep their current benefits while gaining improvements in network and service experiences.
What makes this move notable isn't the migration itself. As CNET notes, AT&T added fees to legacy plans in May, and T-Mobile hiked prices in March 2025. Rather, it's the fact that the company will perform the switch automatically, requiring no action from the customer and no option to stay put. If you end up on a plan you don't want, your only choices are to switch to a different T-Mobile plan or switch to a new carrier.
Internally, T-Mobile framed the move as a systems cleanup, with CNET reporting the change eliminates over 1,100 legacy billing codes.
SEE ALSO: T-Mobile is giving away the Apple iPhone 17 for free — how to claim this free promoStarbucks is bringing back the famous Smores Frappuccino — how to get early access on June 30
It's been six long years, but Starbucks is finally bringing back the beloved S'mores Frappuccino for a limited-time summer run.
The blended drink makes its temporary return to menus nationwide on July 1. But if you're a Starbucks Rewards member (I'm currently at Gold status myself), you can get early access starting tomorrow, June 30. All you have to do is order this caffeinated concoction through the Starbucks app.
In addition to bringing back the S'mores Frappuccino (which features marshmallow-infused whipped cream, milk chocolate sauce, and a graham cracker topping), Starbucks is introducing two brand-new drinks: S'mores Cold Brew topped with a marshmallow-flavored cold foam, chocolate drizzle, and graham cracker sprinkles, and an Iced S'mores Chai.
View this post on InstagramCustomers on Reddit are obviously thrilled (one user commented, "MY FAVOURITE (drink) CHILD IS BACK FROM THE WAR", while another gave it a "10/10," calling it "amazing, worth the hype"). That said, the Starbucks staffers are panicking.
Over on Instagram, baristas are pointing out that this surprise drop wasn't in their summer training. And since most stores only have two blenders, a sudden rush of complex Frappuccinos is going to be pretty tough to manage. On the r/starbucks subreddit, employees echo that sentiment, noting that while the special marshmallow whip is tasty, it's also "labor-intensive" and raising concerns about how they're supposed to keep up their drive-thru times with all the new recipes.
The Starbucks S'mores Frappuccino in all its glory. Credit: StarbucksMashable covered the original rollout of the S'mores frapp back in 2015. Starbucks says it's been on "hiatus" for the past six years, until now.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.The Starbucks menu includes 170,000 possible drink combinations, creating challenges for its baristas. When you factor in sizes, pumps, and other personalization options, outside estimates have put the total Starbucks drink combinations at more than 300 billion. Now, with the S'mores Frappuccino and two related beverages joining the menu, there are even more.
So, just remember to be patient and tip your barista if you're ordering a complicated blended drink (making all that marshmallow whip is no joke).
The s'mores lineup is only available for a short window this summer.
The DOJ is cracking down on illegal World Cup streams in Operation Offsides
As World Cup matches continue across North America, U.S. officials are targeting one of the tournament’s biggest unofficial channels: illegal streams.
On Friday, June 26, the Department of Justice announced that it had seized nearly 400 internet domains that were allegedly being used to illegally stream FIFA World Cup matches in real-time, which, according to the DOJ, is in violation of U.S. copyright law.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.The seizures were part of "Operation Offsides," an international enforcement effort led by the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center with help from Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. prosecutors, foreign law enforcement partners, FIFA, and several major media companies (NBCUniversal, Warner Bros., and the UFC, to name a few).
So if someone clicks on one of the seized domains now, they will not see a World Cup stream; they will see a law enforcement notice explaining that the site has been taken offline — “THIS SITE HAS BEEN SEIZED,” to be specific.
SEE ALSO: How to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup online for free This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.The operation also extends outside the U.S. The DOJ said law enforcement actions were coordinated through the International Computer Hacking and Intellectual Property Network of U.S. prosecutors, with servers and domains linked to illegal World Cup streams targeted in Peru and Bulgaria. Additional disruption efforts took place in Croatia, Romania, Poland, and Colombia.
In the statement, Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva added the DOJ seized the domains to disrupt international networks “that profit from the global popularity of the World Cup.” The department also framed the action as part of the United States’ responsibility as one of the tournament’s host nations, along with Canada and Mexico, to protect the event from illegal activity.
The DOJ’s argument was not only about copyright; officials also warned that illegal streaming sites can put viewers at "significant risk."
That warning is a big part of the government’s case against illegal sports streams. DOJ officials say unauthorized streaming sites can expose viewers to malware attacks and unsecured connections that may compromise personal or financial data. The risk is not just theoretical: a 2022 report from the U.K.-based anti-piracy group Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) found malicious content on all 50 illegal sports streaming sites it analyzed, including scam ads, banking trojans, and explicit pop-ups. Viewers also face deceptive ads, scams, and extensive tracking.
So while an illegal stream may look like a quick workaround when a match is hard to find, the malware is—apparently—not optional.
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.Friday's crackdown also lands in the middle of a much larger sports piracy fight. Just days before the DOJ announced the World Cup domain seizures, ACE, UEFA, UC3, and Mexican authorities said they had disrupted 44 domains linked to PirloTV, a major illegal sports streaming network focused largely on live soccer. Those domains generated more than 950 million visits worldwide each year, including about 230 million visits from Mexico alone.
After the PirloTV-linked domains were disrupted, new domains quickly appeared again. It's basically a version of pirate-wack-a-mole.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.There is a reason watching illegal sports streams is so popular right now. Sports broadcasting rights are increasingly split across traditional broadcasters, streaming apps, cable packages, and geographic markets. For fans, especially during a global event like the World Cup, figuring out where to watch every match can be confusing and expensive. Some even say the quality is better on illegal sites.
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.Rights holders, meanwhile, argue that piracy pulls viewers away from licensed broadcasts, advertisers, and platforms that paid a ton of money for the rights to show the games.
Risks around the tournament go beyond illegal streams. On May 27, the FBI had warned fans about fake FIFA websites created ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Those spoofed sites were designed to impersonate FIFA and could be used to sell fake tickets or hospitality packages, collect personal information, and facilitate financial scams. Taken together, the warnings show how quickly the online ecosystem around a major tournament has been risky,
For now, hundreds of those World Cup streaming domains are offline. But sports piracy has a long history of moving from one domain to the next, especially during events with massive global demand. The latest seizure is a major enforcement action, but it is probably not the final whistle.
Did PlayStation outsell Xbox 8 to 1 with GTA VI pre-orders? Microsoft rebuts claims.
Grand Theft Auto VI found itself mired in a little bit of controversy regarding platform sales over the weekend.
On Saturday, IGN shared data indicating that IGN readers were pre-ordering the PlayStation 5 version of GTA VI substantially more than the Xbox Series version, by a ratio of 8-to-1. IGN's social post made it explicitly clear that this data was based on IGN's own affiliate link data, meaning it is not representative of the gaming community as a whole. For what it's worth, Mashable's own affiliate data shows a similarly stark split between PS5 and Xbox pre-orders.
(Disclosure: IGN and Mashable have the same parent company, Ziff Davis.)
SEE ALSO: 'GTA VI' Online release date: What we know so far This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.Regardless, it became enough of a story that Microsoft felt the need to respond to it. A spokesperson told Windows Central that IGN's data should not be taken as a definitive account of what's happening with GTA VI pre-orders. By Monday morning, Microsoft's GTA VI pre-order rebuttal statement was a trending Google search term.
“This doesn’t represent pre-order data. We’ve had record orders," Microsoft told Windows Central in a statement. "People should wait for real data and not clicks on affiliate links."
There's a decent possibility that two things are true here. First, Microsoft is almost certainly seeing huge numbers of pre-orders for GTA VI because it is one of the most hyped video games in many, many years (if not in the history of gaming). Second, the PS5 version most likely is being pre-ordered more than the Xbox version (even if it's not by an 8-to-1 ratio) because the PS5 has been a significantly more successful console than the Xbox Series machines. Sony has confirmed more than 93 million lifetime unit sales for the PS5, and while Microsoft does not share official sales data anymore, recent estimates put the Xbox Series consoles in the neighborhood of 35 million units.
Sony and Rockstar have also entered into some kind of marketing partnership for the game, with the developer boasting that GTA VI "plays best" on PS5 earlier this month. It's safe to assume that millions of people will play the game on Xbox, as Microsoft suggested, but it's also safe to assume more people will play the title on PS5.
After years of anticipation and repeated delays, Rockstar Games officially opened Grand Theft Auto VI pre-orders on June 25, ahead of a Nov. 19 release date.
Grand Theft Auto VI - PlayStation 5 (Code in Box) $79.99 at AmazonSee It at Amazon Grand Theft Auto VI - Xbox Series X (Code in Box) $79.99 at Amazon
See It at Amazon
Did you catch the Michelin star man in The Bear Season 4? We did.
In The Bear Season 4, episode 1, Carmy Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White) reaffirms his quest for The Bear to get a Michelin star. After all, if the restaurant earns one, the recognition could bring in more customers and save The Bear from financial ruin.
SEE ALSO: 'The Bear' Season 5 gives Carmy one hell of a career pivotBy the end of Season 4, The Bear has not heard whether they've earned the Michelin star. The lack of follow-through on this key plot point is just one of many ways in which Season 4 drops the ball on any kind of pacing and urgency, even though The Bear's crew are staring down a two-month doomsday clock reminding them of the restaurant's imminent closure. But every second counts, right?
Still, the Michelin star plotline wasn't entirely abandoned, because the show hints pretty hard that a Michelin inspector visited The Bear.
In Season 4, episode 3, after Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) gives a dining party the surprise of a sandwich from the Chicago Beef, he briefly connects with another impressed customer (Gary Janetti).
"You have a bunch of mind readers in here," the customer says, going on to praise Sydney's (Ayo Edebiri) new scallop dish and The Bear's "excellent vibe."
Later, he catches sight of Richie's other big surprise: turning the outside of the Beef sandwich window into a winter wonderland so that a recently cancer-free diner traveling in from Los Angeles can experience a Chicago snow in person. It's clear the customer Richie spoke to is touched by the display, which is a good thing, because he's definitely the Michelin inspector.
First, the show's outsize focus on an unnamed diner hints pretty hard that he's someone important. Second, the show drops a major, Chicago-specific hint about his role.
SEE ALSO: 'The Bear' Season 4 does Tina dirtyIn Season 4, episode 2, The Bear's staff strategizes over how to spot a Michelin inspector. According to the former Ever staff and real-life Chicago restaurateur Donnie Madia (playing himself), no one knows who the inspectors are, but there are signs. Sometimes they fiddle with their reservation at the last second, or bring a celebrity as a distraction.
"You do hear things, though," Madia says. "Like they use a weird last name. Like a street in the city they're visiting."
What name does the mystery diner's driver call him as she comes to pick him up from the restaurant? None other than Mr. Clark — and Clark is a major street in Chicago! Case closed, Janetti's customer is the Michelin inspector Carmy and his team were so dreading serving.
The good news is that the inspector appeared impressed with his experience at The Bear. He enjoyed the food and the atmosphere, plus he got to witness some of Richie's surprises. Maybe he'll dock points for Richie securing him an extra sandwich from the Beef, since Madia advised staff not to pamper the Michelin inspector more than they would a usual guest. But it seems like Richie truly didn't know and was just providing a nice service, so maybe the inspector will let it slide.
The bad news? The inspector's visit has no bearing on the rest of the season. Instead, a late visit by a Food & Wine critic ends up having more of an impact.
I'm sure Michelin will come back into play in a potential Season 5. However, to front-load the season with mentions of it only never to circle back is a massive failure of pacing, as well as a sign that The Bear is confused about its own priorities. At least we'll always have that Clark Street Easter egg.
Season 5 confirms Peter Clark was the Michelin inspector.The Bear Season 5 tries to throw viewers off the scent of the mysterious Mr. Clark. They introduce a new guest, played by Peter Grosz, who fits all the telltale signs of being the Michelin inspector. He fiddles with his reservation last-minute, switching to a two-top. He brings a celebrity guest with him, legendary Chicago weatherman Tom Skilling, playing himself. The last name on his reservation, Dearborn, is also the name of a Chicago street.
However, this man is a total red herring. Janetti's mystery diner, whose full name turns out to be Peter Clark, returns in The Bear's series finale, when he calls Carmy to congratulate him on the Bear restaurant earning two Michelin stars. (Maybe the Clark Street tie-in was just a happy coincidence?)
Whoever Mr. Dearborn truly is, I hope he enjoyed his meal at the Bear and gave it a Michelin star in his heart, even if he couldn't in real life.
All seasons of The Bear are now streaming on Hulu.
UPDATE: Jun. 29, 2026, 11:09 a.m. EDT This article was first published June 26, 2025, with the release of The Bear Season 4, and has been updated to reflect the events of Season 5.
Get ready to fight for your life: Starbucks is dropping a new Pink Drink Bearista Cup
If you survived the great Starbucks Bearista Cold Cup shortage of 2025, grab your emotional support water bottles, because we're about to do it all over again.
Starbucks just announced that it's bringing back the notoriously viral, instantly sold-out bear glass, but this time, it's getting a bright summer makeover. Enter: the Pink Bearista Glass Cold Cup.
SEE ALSO: ChatGPT launches Starbucks app, with AI suggesting drinks for your moodInspired by the Pink Drink, this limited-edition cup is pretty much destined to break the internet (though all the Gilmore Girlies were probs to blame for the beanie version selling out so quickly). The new glass features the bear wearing a little pink hat and comes with a strawberry straw topper. I fear the Stanley Stans will be to blame for this sell-out.
Starbucks is bringing back its viral bear glass with a bright, pink summer makeover starting July 13. Credit: Starbucks The new Pink Drink-inspired Bearista cup features an adorable pink hat and a matching strawberry straw topper. Credit: StarbucksIf you don't want to pay ridiculous reseller markups on eBay this time around, here's a quick rundown on how and when to get one:
Brick-and-mortar: You should be able to purchase one in-store at select Starbucks coffeehouses on July 13. (Starbucks is enforcing a strict two-item purchase limit per customer.) The cups will be available in the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
Starbucks Shop: Starbucks Reserve members will get early access via the Starbucks Shop on July 9. Note: This is not the same thing as being a standard "Rewards member." Reserve members are the highest tier of the Rewards program. (I'm a Gold status member myself.) Reserve status members earn 2,500 stars in a single year.
May the odds be ever in your favor next month. Since I haven't hit that coveted Reserve status yet, I'll most likely be hitting up my local Starbucks until I can find one in stock.
The Instagram-viral Cadence Travel Capsules are on sale for 25% off
Save 25%: Cadence's daily routine capsule set is on sale for $103 at Amazon as of June 29, knocking the price down $35 from $138.
Opens in a new window Credit: Cadence Cadence Daily Routine Capsule set (7 pieces) $103 at Amazon$138 Save $35 Get Deal
If you find yourself reliably scrambling for travel-size containers the night before a trip, investing in a dedicated set can help ease pre-travel stress.
That's one of the appeals of the Instagram-viral Cadence capsules, which are most recognizable as the magnetic little hexagons with the interchangeable lids for labeling your toiletries. With wide mouths for easy filling and capacities within TSA regulations, they're designed to be simple to use and to take anywhere. They're also the source of many cases of sticker shock — but as of June 29, you can grab the seven-piece Capsule daily routine set for $103, saving you 25% on the usually $138 set.
Yes, that's still a good deal more expensive than grabbing a set of a few plastic bottles at CVS. The idea behind the capsule set, though, is that you're much more likely to hang on to them than those plastic CVS bottles, due to how easy they are to fill, keep track of, and use until the very last drop. It's an upfront investment — not unlike a pair of sleep earbuds — but one that frequent travels would be likely to appreciate.
This specific set includes three small containers at 0.56 ounces, and four medium containers at 1.32 ounces. On Cadence's website, one small capsule runs for $15, while one medium capsule runs for $24. That would but the individual price of buying at $45 for three small capsules, and $96 for four medium capsules (aka, nearly the cost of this entire set), putting the total price of buying this set piecemeal at $141. At Amazon, you have your choice of five difference colorways, including eucalyptus, charcoal, pacific (blue), petal (light pink), and sand.
Moon phase today: What the Moon will look like on June 29
Tonight is the Full Moon, which as we all know, means the Moon shining at its fullest in the sky. This marks the peak of the lunar cycle before it gradually begins to wane again and head towards the New Moon.
What is today’s Moon phase?As of Monday, June 29, the Moon phase is Full Moon. Tonight, 99% of the moon will be be lit up, according to NASA's Daily Moon Guide.
You don't need any visual aids tonight to see features on the Moon's surface. In fact, without anything you'll see the Mare Fecunditatis, Mare Crisium, and the Kepler Crater. With binoculars you'll also be able to catch a glimpse of the Clavius Crater, Alps Mountains, and the Apennine Mountains. For keen astronomy fans with a telescope, you'll also be able to spot the Apollo 12 and 16 landing spots, as well as the Rima Hyginus.
When is the next Full Moon?The next Full Moon will take place on June 29.
What are Moon phases?NASA explains that the Moon takes roughly 29.5 days to circle Earth once, passing through eight distinct phases during that time. Even though we always see the same side of the Moon, the portion illuminated by the Sun shifts as it moves in its orbit. This changing angle of sunlight is what makes the Moon look different throughout the month, from thin crescents to half-lit shapes and eventually a fully illuminated Full Moon. The continual progression through these stages is called the lunar cycle.
New Moon - The Moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).
Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).
First Quarter - Half of the Moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-Moon.
Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.
Full Moon - The whole face of the Moon is illuminated and fully visible.
Waning Gibbous - The Moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)
Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) - Another half-Moon, but now the left side is lit.
Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.
June Full Moon 2026: See the Strawberry Moon
It's almost the Full Moon, and in June it's called the Strawberry Moon. Like many of the Moon's names, this doesn't have anything to do with the visuals of the Moon (kind of like how last month's moon wasn't actually blue), but more to do with the seasonal and cultural traditions associated with June.
Want to know more about the first Moon of the summer? Keep reading to find out more.
When is the June full moon?The Full Moon will occur on Monday, June 29. Time and Date estimates it will peak at 7:56 p.m. ET.
What is the June full moon called?The June Full Moon is known as the Strawberry Moon.
According to NASA, this name originated with the Algonquin tribes of the northeastern United States. It marked the time in June when strawberries were ripe and ready to harvest.
So, it's no surprise it ties in with peak strawberry season, when the fruit is at its best and you start seeing punnets everywhere. Another little reminder that summer is finally kicking in.
When is the next full moon?The next Full Moon will take place on July 29.
What are the lunar phases?The Moon completes a full cycle of eight phases as it orbits Earth in about 29 and a half days. As it moves around our planet, sunlight falls on different parts of it from our point of view, even though we always see the same side. This changing angle of light makes the illuminated portion appear to grow and shrink, moving from full brightness to a thin glow and back again. The phases are:
New Moon — The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (so, we don't see anything).
Waxing Crescent — A small sliver of light appears on the right side
First Quarter — Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.
Waxing Gibbous — More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.
Full Moon — The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.
Waning Gibbous — The moon starts losing light on the right side
Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) — Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.
Waning Crescent — A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.
Want more science and tech news delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for Mashable's Light Speed newsletter today.
The premium Samsung 49-inch Odyssey OLED G9 curved gaming monitor has never been this cheap before
SAVE $294: As of June 29, the Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G93SC OLED curved gaming monitor is on sale at Amazon for just $854.99 instead of its list price of $1,149. That's 26% in savings.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G93SC OLED curved gaming monitor $854.99 at Amazon$1,149 Save $294.01 Get Deal
If you've been wanting to upgrade to a premium gaming setup, now's a good time to make the jump, as the Samsung 49-inch Odyssey OLED G9 monitor is the cheapest it's ever been.
As of June 29, the Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G93SC OLED curved gaming monitor is on sale at Amazon for $854.99. That's 26% or $294 off its recent list price of $1,149 (originally $1,599) and its lowest price on record. Most ultra-wide OLED curved gaming monitors of this size clock in at over $1,000, so while this still seems expensive, $854.99 is actually a pretty sweet deal.
Beyond a massive amount of screen real estate at 49 inches, the Odyssey G93SC also features a steep 1800R curve, which completely envelops you as a gamer. It is worth noting that its 32:9 aspect ratio isn't compatible with every game, so you may want to double check that your favorites will work on this display before pulling the trigger. As you can imagine, it also takes up quite a bit of desktop space and takes some getting used to. Still, many Redditors have boasted that once they jumped on board the OLED ultrawide train, they've never gone back.
The G93SC packs a 240Hz refresh rate, 0.03ms response time, DisplayHDR True Black 400, and G-Sync and FreeSync Premium Pro compatibility. There's also plenty of ports on board for connectivity, including HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, and USB Hub.
If you're ready to invest in some unforgettable gaming experiences, the Samsung Odyssey OLED G93SC is definitely a fantastic first step. And if you add it to your cart ASAP, you'll save nearly $300.
How to watch Brazil vs. Japan online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Brazil vs. Japan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN, an Official Supporter of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has entered the knockout stage. Canada are already through to the next round after scoring a late winner against South Africa, and there's more to come through the week.
Next up, Brazil are facing Japan in a match that has all the makings of a classic. Brazil can beat any team on their best day — though we still haven't seen them hit top form in this tournament. Japan have performed brilliantly in some of their group games and come into this clash unbeaten.
If you want to watch Brazil vs. Japan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Brazil vs. Japan?Brazil vs. Japan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off at 1 p.m. ET on June 29. This fixture takes place at Houston Stadium.
How to watch Brazil vs. Japan for freeBrazil vs. Japan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is available to live stream for free on ITVX.
ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock ITVX to live stream the 2026 World Cup for free from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Brazil vs. Japan for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit ITVX
Watch Brazil vs. Japan for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of the 2026 World Cup without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Brazil vs. Japan (plus more World Cup fixtures) before recovering your investment.
ExpressVPN's regular 30-day money-back guarantee is not available for any subscriptions purchased during the FIFA World Cup between June 10 and July 11. ExpressVPN remains our top pick for sport, but you will need to pay the monthly rate. Alternatively, Proton VPN still offers that all-important money-back guarantee.
What is the best VPN for ITVX?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on ITVX, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including the UK
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to 10 simultaneous connections
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99. That covers you for the duration of the World Cup.
Live stream Brazil vs. Japan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free.
Naomi Osakas Wimbledon dress has been made available by Nike — heres how to buy it
If you're dying to get your hands on Naomi Osaka's custom Wimbledon dress, I have some good news and some bad news. The good news is that Nike has finally released it to the public, and for a brief, shining moment this morning, it was in stock. The bad news? By the time I sat down to write this, almost every size was sold out (right now, you can only get it in an extra small).
The dress, which Nike is charging $185 for, features seven little 3-D flowers as a nod to Kirigami (a timeless Japanese art form). It looks delicate, but it's built for actual tennis — the fabric is stretchy and sweat-wicking, and the floral details are "carefully placed" specifically so they "don't interfere with her play."
Opens in a new window Credit: Nike Naomi Osaka Slam Women's Dri-FIT Tennis Dress $185 at NikeShop Now
Even Osaka herself was shocked by how fast the dress flew off the virtual shelves. "You guys selling out my Wimby dress before I even had the opportunity to wear it on court is really gagging me," she posted to Threads. "Okay fashionistas, I see you! (I got you for the walk on though)."
Osaka has been having a solid run leading up to the major, too. She just beat Elise Mertens in straight sets to reach the quarterfinals at the Bad Homburg Open. With Wimbledon officially kicking off today, we're going to see her wear this exact look on the grass courts very soon.
If you happen to wear an extra small, run over to Nike's site right now. For the rest of us, it's either wait and hope for another random restock, or bite the bullet and check resale sites like eBay (just prepare yourself for a markup).


