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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.
Updated: 39 min 27 sec ago

Spotify is raising prices yet again. Heres how much and when.

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 14:33

Spotify Premium is about to become more expensive.

The company announced the change in a blog post Thursday, saying it's updating the price of Spotify Premium in the U.S., Estonia, and Latvia. And when Spotify updates prices, it's typically upwards.

The change, which is going live in February, will soon be announced to Premium subscribers via email.

In short, you'll have to pay one dollar more for Premium in the U.S. Starting in February, the price for Individual Premium plans will go up from $11.99 per month to $12.99 per month, while Student plans are going up from $5.99 to $6.99.

Things won't be anything better for Duo subscribers, as the price of that plan is going up $2, from $16.99 to $18.99, while Family plan is going up from $19.99 to $21.99.

SEE ALSO: Spotify is no longer running ICE recruitment ads

The company didn't list too many reasons for the change, claiming merely it's updating its pricing to "keep delivering a great experience."

Spotify prices have gone up steadily over the past couple of years. Most recently, the company lifted prices in June 2024 in the U.S., which was the second such hike in a year.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 15, 2026

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 13:43

The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult to solve if you have a green thumb.

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 January 15, 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: Landscaping instruments

  • Green: Fixed

  • Blue: Small units

  • Purple: Male titles

Here are today's Connections categories

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

  • Yellow: Gardening tools

  • Green: Unmoving

  • Blue: Things that come in flakes

  • Purple: Words formed by two men's names

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 #949 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Gardening tools: HOSE, RAKE, SHOVEL, SPADE

  • Unmoving: FROZEN, STATIC, STATIONARY, STILL

  • Things that come in flakes: CEREAL, DANDRUFF, SALT, SNOW

  • Words formed by two men's names: JACKAL, LEVITATE, MELTED, PATRON

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 January 15, 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

NYT Strands hints, answers for January 15, 2026

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 13:43

Today's NYT Strands hints are easy if you have great hearing.

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 January 15, 2026 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 15, 2026 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: The ears have it!

The words are related to a body part.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe parts of your hearing aids.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Hear Hear.

NYT Strands word list for January 15
  • Stirruo

  • Cartilage

  • Lobe

  • Hammber

  • Anvil

  • Hear Hear

  • Drum

  • Canal

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Strands.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Wordle today: Answer, hints for January 15, 2026

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 13:43

Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you love geology.

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 January 15, 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 January 15, 2026 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A gorge.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

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

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

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

CHASM

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

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for January 15, 2026

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

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

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to today's Wordle.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Watch NASAs SpaceX Crew-11 splash down off Californian coast

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 13:23

NASA's SpaceX Crew-11 has safely returned to Earth in an unprecedented ISS medical evacuation, splashing down off the Californian coast on Thursday morning.

Landing in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego at 3:41 a.m. ET / 12:41 a.m. PT, a Dragon capsule saw four astronauts safely returned from the International Space Station after a 167-day mission. NASA's Commander Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, Japan's Kimiya Yui, and Russia's Oleg Platonov landed right on time, according to NASA, and were retrieved by a SpaceX recovery crew waiting nearby.

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You can watch the splashdown on NASA's YouTube livestream (around the 1:30:00 mark).

As the capsule waited for the SpaceX recovery crew, a few cheeky dolphins popped up right beside it:

Cute! Credit: NASA / YouTube

The crew's landing date was brought forward due to medical concerns with one of the crew, the name of whom NASA has kept confidential during all press statements. Mashable space reporter Elisha Sauers took a detailed look at NASA's first medical evacuation from the ISS. According to NASA, the crew member "remains stable," and stated in a press release, "Due to medical privacy, it is not appropriate for NASA to share more details about the crew member."

SEE ALSO: NASA preparing for its first crewed Moon mission in 50 years

After being brought aboard the SpaceX recovery ship, all four astronauts exited the capsule with help from the crew, then were transported immediately to a medical tent on board. According to NASA, they're set to be assessed in a local hospital overnight and then taken to NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston for further evaluation.

NASA Commander Zena Cardman emerging from the landed Dragon capsule. Credit: NASA / YouTube

Crew-11 left Earth on Aug. 1, 2025, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, and have since conducted research and experiments designed to prepare for future human exploration of Mars and the moon.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Samsung Odyssey G5 ultra-wide gaming monitor just dropped to under $300 at Amazon

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 12:57

TL;DR: The Samsung 34-inch Odyssey G5 ultra-wide gaming monitor is down to $279.99 at Amazon. This deal saves you $120 off its original $399.99 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 34-inch Odyssey G5 $279.99 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $120 Get Deal

You don’t need to wait for major sales to score a serious upgrade to your gaming setup. As of Jan. 15, Amazon has the Samsung 34-inch Odyssey G5 ultra-wide gaming monitor on sale for $279.99, down from its original $399.99 list price. This is a sizable 30% discount on one of Samsung’s most immersive displays. 

This version of the Odyssey G5 is built for players who want more screen without jumping into ultra-premium pricing. The 34-inch Ultra-WQHD resolution offers the equivalent of a dual-monitor setup without the bezels, making it ideal for expansive RPGs like Cyberpunk 2077, racing sims like Assetto Corsa Competizione, and multitasking between games and apps. Its aggressive 1,000R curve wraps around your field of vision, pulling you into the action in a way flat panels simply can’t match.

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Pperformance is where this monitor really shines. You’re getting a 165Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium, which helps eliminate screen tearing and stutter during fast-paced gameplay. Whether you’re chasing frame-perfect reactions in Fortnite-esque shooters or cruising through open worlds, the experience should consistently be smooth and responsive throughout any session.

At under $300, you’ve got an affordable way to step into high-refresh ultra-wide gaming from a trusted brand.

If you’re also open to a standard display, the 32-inch G50D version of the Samsung Odyssey G5 is on sale. Alternatively, the Asus ROG Strix monitor is on sale for its lowest-ever price at Amazon,

Categories: IT General, Technology

Jimmy Kimmel has a blunt response to the latest Greenland talks

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 12:41

The U.S. is still setting its sights on Greenland, but talks don't seem to be going anywhere — with the country's prime minister making it clear that Greenland does not want to be part of the United States.

"Of course they don't want to be part of the United States right now," Jimmy Kimmel said on his show Wednesday night. "People from the United States don't want to be part of the United States. It's like being cast in a movie that already has Bill Cosby in the lead. People don't want it."

Kimmel goes on to speculate about why President Donald Trump might be so obsessed with Greenland at the moment.

"Maybe he's just focussed on Greenland to take our attention off a different island," says Kimmel. "We are still waiting on those Epstein files."

Categories: IT General, Technology

Is the Coros Apex 4 battery life a competitive advantage for multi-day events?

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 12:23

If you're into long, multi-day sports events, a fitness tracker with a good battery life is essential. And we’re not talking about 11 hours in GPS mode before you’re reaching for the portable charger. We’re talking about days of continuous tracking, through sleep deprivation and all kinds of terrain.

This is where the Coros Apex 4 comes into its own. It's an endurance fitness tracker designed with endurance athletes in mind. It has everything from detailed GPS tracking to advanced heart rate and training metrics, and not to mention, a battery life that will see you through any multi-day event. But, how much of an advantage is battery life really?

Can battery life give you a competitive advantage?

There are many ways in which having a strong battery life can help you during training and racing. For one, many ultra events now require you to have the race route downloaded into your watch maps (not to mention, if it's an off-road route you'll really need this). By having a watch battery that lasts for days, you not only meet race requirements but also avoid the interruptions and stress of mid-event charging.

Navigation truly is a biggie. Losing track of your route, whether in training or on race day, can cost you hours. It can also be unsafe if you don't know exactly where you are. With a watch that can stay on for days, you can keep your maps loaded the whole time, following the course or your planned route. Strong battery life means you're less likely to take a wrong turn or miss a checkpoint or aid station. And after miles of cycling or running, you do not want to miss out on your boiled potatoes.

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The long battery life also means you can leave your watch on during your training sessions, so every run or ride is fully tracked. You can monitor your progress over the hours of training. In a race environment, especially a multi-day event, this can help you to adjust your effort without worrying about running out of juice halfway through. The continuous data can help you practice sustainable pacing strategies.

Multi-day events are seriously tough on your body. Keeping your watch on for days at a time allows you to track heart rate trends and early signs of fatigue, letting you adjust your strategy based on your body's response.

And the Apex 4 more than meets the requirements for a reliable battery life. This watch can run for up to 65 hours in full GPS mode. According to Coros, this is long enough to cover races like the Grand Traverse or a full loop around Mont Blanc.

Other great features of the Coros Apex 4

Battery life isn't the only thing that makes this Coros watch a great choice for endurance athletes. It has built-in dual-frequency GPS with advanced vertical algorithms, meaning you'll get super accurate positioning even when you're in dense forests or surrounded by mountains. So, you can always trust your pace and route no matter how remote or rugged the conditions.

It also has a built-in microphone and speaker, letting you record voice pins to capture notes on the route or reminders for yourself during a long run. The speaker also lets you take hands-free calls or hear activity alerts out loud.

Sports tracking is impressive too, and it has all the usual you'd expect from a fitness tracker, with some added extras for trail running, ski touring, alpine climbing, and steep vertical training.

Where to buy the Coros Apex 4

The Coros Apex 4 is available to buy from Amazon. The 46mm watch is priced at $479, whereas the 42mm option is $429. Both are available in colors black or white.

Coros Apex 4 $479 at Amazon
  See It at Amazon
Categories: IT General, Technology

Everything you need to remember before Bridgerton Season 4

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 12:05

Dearest gentle reader, it's nearing time for another season of courting and conviviality in Netflix and Shondaland's Bridgerton.

We've spent the last three seasons relishing in the lustful long games of the Bridgerton family: the Duke of Hastings and Daphne, then Kate Sharma and Anthony, then Penelope Featherington and Colin — as well as a spinoff season on Queen Charlotte and her beloved King George. This time, based on the third novel in Julia Quinn's series, An Offer from a Gentleman, showrunner Jess Brownell shifts focus to another Bridgerton: the rakish Benedict (Luke Thompson).

SEE ALSO: 'Bridgerton' Season 4 trailer unveils Benedict’s masquerade mystery

But what happened again last season? Here's everything you need to remember from Season 3 of Bridgerton before you watch Season 4. Who married whom? What went down at that final ball? And what became of Lady Whistledown?

Penelope was unmasked as Lady Whistledown. Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

Members of the Ton, this was the big one in Season 3: Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) was revealed as the formidable writer behind Lady Whistledown's influential Society Papers.

Pen was first found out by her best friend Eloise Bridgerton (Claudia Jessie) in the Season 2 finale, which meant the pair spent most of Season 3 in a stand-off. Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) confronted his new wife Penelope (more on that below) at the printers, and that went as well as you'd expect, considering how much she's written about him and the Bridgertons. Plus, Cressida Cowper (Jessica Madsen) figured out who Lady Whistledown was by checking every printer in the Ton (smart!), then falsely claiming to be the writer and blackmailing Penelope (she failed and was sadly taken away by her mean Aunt Joanna).

Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

Finally, it all came out at the Dankworth-Finch ball during the season finale. Bored in their marriages, Prudence (Bessie Carter) and Philippa (Harriet Cains) hosted a maximalist ball, paid for by their lucrative sister Penelope and attended by none other than Queen Charlotte (Golda Rosheuvel). Having spent the last three seasons j'accusing everyone of being Lady Whistledown, the Queen came face to face with her social rival.

In front of the ball, Penelope gave one hell of a speech about why she became Lady Whistledown as a means of finally being listened to and the result of being "captivated" by the members of the Ton. She asked the Queen permission to continue writing "responsibly" — it was a solid yes. Penelope finally introduced herself to her readers as Penelope Bridgerton in a new Whistledown column.

Plus, Pen got her mother, Lady Portia Featherington (Polly Walker), off the financial hook the whole thing with Jack Featherington and his fraudulent activities in Season 2, by convincing a prying crown solicitor the money they extorted was in fact her Lady Whistledown earnings.

Featured Video For You ‘Bridgerton’ Season 3 has the internet upset for all the wrong reasons Penelope and Colin got married. Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton were married after three seasons of lusting from afar, but not before their best friendship moved into a carriage of pre-marital steam (Pitbull will never be the same).

The whole Whistledown discovery put a spanner into their very new marriage, as a betrayed Colin shut Pen out emotionally and physically — and served up a huge dollop of writer's envy over her being a published author. However, Colin eventually accepted Penelope and Lady Whistledown as "one voice," admitted his jealousy, and declared his love once more. In the final moments of Season 3, we see Pen and Colin have had a baby boy, and Philippa and Prudence have had daughters (meaning Pen and Colin's son is the new Lord Featherington).

Alice and Will Mondrich levelled up. Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

In Season 3, married couple Alice Mondrich (Emma Naomi) and Will Mondrich (Martins Imhangbe) found themselves in a prominent social position — and strangely sleeping in different bedrooms thanks to a dramatically prudish housekeeper. Alice's great-aunt died and left Will and Alice's eldest (but still very young) son Nicky an estate and a title: Baron of Kent. This all meant the Mondrichs' standing in society was wildly changed from Will's former life as a boxer and gentlemen's club owner — they're now seriously influential in the Ton.

Benedict had a steamy poly relationship. Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

A member of the Ton's outsider artist circles, Benedict has long dabbled with polyamory since Season 1, from his dalliance with artist Lord Granville's wife Lucy and Genevieve Delacroix, but he's spent much of Bridgerton suppressing his bisexuality. In Season 3, Benedict delved into a secret polyamorous relationship with widow Lady Tilley Arnold (Hannah New) and Paul Suarez (Lucas Aurelio). However, their bond became strained as Tilley fell hard for Benedict, who finds consensual non-monogamy preferable, so they parted ways.

SEE ALSO: 'Bridgerton' Season 3 characters, ranked by crush-worthiness

Unfortunately for Benedict, our Season 2 lovers Viscount Anthony (Jonathan Bailey) and Viscountess Kate (Simone Ashley) left for India in Season 3, meaning he's the main administrator for the Bridgerton family now — and the next on the marriage mart, if his mother has anything to say about it.

Mega-chillers Francesca and John got married, but then... Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

After a very quiet courtship, Francesca Bridgerton (Hannah Dodd) was married to John Stirling (Victor Alli) in the Bridgerton drawing room and prepared to leave for John's primary estate in the Scottish Highlands.

After reluctantly attempting to join the Ton's marriage mart, Eloise decided instead to see the world, asking to accompany Francesca and John to Scotland. Also suddenly joining them was John's cousin Michaela Stirling (Masali Baduza), whose introduction right at the end of the Season 3 finale caused Francesca to get seriously tongue-tied and flustered. Giiiiirl.

Lady Bridgerton and Lord Anderson crushed hard on each other. Credit: Liam Daniel / Netflix

Lady Agatha Danbury's (Adjoa Andoh) brother Lord Marcus Anderson (Daniel Francis) and her best friend Lady Violet Bridgerton (Ruth Gemmell) were eyeing each other up all season, but before anything untoward happened, Violet asked her friend's permission. Here, there was a throwback to a reveal from Queen Charlotte, that Lady Danbury had once had an affair with Violet's father, Lord Ledger, after his wife's death. (That's best friend + dad, so best friend + brother seems chill.)

In the Season 3 finale, Marcus asked Violet for a dance at the ball. Cute.

Bridgerton Season 4 Part 1 debuts on Netflix Jan. 29 and Part 2 on Feb. 26.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Pokémon TCG: Collector Chest is down to market value on Amazon

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 12:03

TL;DR: The Fall 2025 edition of the Pokémon TCG Collector chest is now only $37.10 at Amazon. That's 36% off its $57.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG: Collector Chest Fall 2025 $37.10 at Amazon
$57.99 Save $20.89 Get Deal

Pokémon TCG’s inflated pricing due to short supply is not going anywhere, so sometimes the best bargains come from collections you wouldn’t expect. In this case, it’s the latest Collector Chest becoming more affordable. As of Jan. 15, you can buy the Pokémon TCG’s Fall 2025 Collector Chest for just $37.10 at Amazon, with $20.89 chopped off its price of $57.99. That brings it to just $2.50 over its current market price on TCGplayer.

The Collector Chest contains the following: 

  • A mixture of six booster packs — three Mega Evolution, two of Journey Together, and one Destined Rivals

  • Three foil promo cards of Ralts, Kirlia, and Riolu

  • One Mega Lucario Pokémon coin

  • Four sticker sheets

  • A mini portfolio to store your cards in

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In a market where you currently need to pay upwards of $50 for a booster bundle containing six packs of in-demand Pokémon trading card expansions, like Phantasmal Flames — $37 for the same amount plus promo cards, a coin, and a mini portfolio and tin to store them all in is an amazing deal by comparison. 

Granted, the six boosters are a mixture of three different expansions rather than one, but if you’re like most Pokémon TCG collectors who are trying to complete multiple sets, this is a must-buy. 

Speaking of Pokémon TCG deals, you can also grab the Lugia ex and Latias ex Premium Collection for $30 off. If ETBs are what you’re seeking, you can also find both Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Boxes at around market price at Amazon

Categories: IT General, Technology

GOTY contender Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is now only $40

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 11:56

TL;DR: Hit RPG Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is down to $39.97 at Amazon. This deal saves you $20 on its usual $59.99 price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Deep Silver Kingdom Come: Deliverance II $39.97 at Amazon
$59.96 Save $19.99 Get Deal

If you’ve been waiting to jump into KCD2, one of the most talked-about RPGs of the year, now’s the perfect time to do so. As of Jan. 15, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II has dropped to $39.97 at Amazon. That's down from its usual $59.99 price tag: a solid $20 discount on what many are calling the most overlooked contender in the 'Game of the Year' category at the 2025 Game Awards. 

Made by Warhorse Studios, this sequel doubles down on everything fans loved about the original, delivering a gritty, historically grounded RPG set in 15th-century Bohemia. You once again step into the muddy boots of Henry, navigating a brutal medieval world shaped by political turmoil, personal revenge, and your own moral choices. Combat is still demanding, exploration is deeply immersive, and the game’s commitment to realism remains largely unmatched in the genre.

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Released early in 2025 and going up against some of the other amazing games released later that year and also nominated for GOTY at The Game Awards — Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (the winner), Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Donkey Kong Bananza, Hades II, and Hollow Knight: Silksong — it's no surprise that KCD2 lost out on some well-deserved recognition. 

That said, it’s still a fantastic RPG in its own right, enough to also get nominated for ‘Best Narrative’ and ‘Best Role Playing Game’ at the Game Awards. That’s along with a plethora of other nominations at other awards, winning ‘Best PC Game’ at 2024 Gamescom.

Even at its full $60 price, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is a great deal with dozens (if not hundreds) of hours of high-quality RPG fun. At $40 for PlayStation 5, it’s a no-brainer. 

Amazon has been going hard on game deals, with the retailer restocking its sale on Star Wars Outlaws and the Silent Hill 2 remake.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Get the Pokémon TCG: Mega Lucario ex Figure Collection for $9 off at Amazon

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 11:50

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG: Mega Lucario ex Figure Collection is now only $58.99 at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG: Mega Lucario ex Figure Collection $58.99 at Amazon
$67.99 Save $9.00 Get Deal

If Mega Lucario is your Pokémon of choice and you’ve been missing out on the latest TCG expansions, Amazon just dropped a solid deal that’s worth a look. 

As of Jan. 15, you can grab the Pokémon TCG: Mega Lucario ex Figure Collection for $58.99 at Amazon. While still over market value, it still massively undercuts what’s available on TCGplayer right now. Altogether, $58.99 is a great price considering what you get in the Pokémon TCG’s Mega Lucario ex Figure Collection: 

  • Mega Lucario ex figure

  • Mega Lucario ex foil promo card

  • Five Pokémon TCG booster packs — two Destined Rivals, two Mega Evolution, and one Journey Together

  • Oversized Mega Lucario ex foil promo card

  • Code card for Pokémon TCG Live

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Each booster pack from the included expansions usually go for $10-$15, so you’ll essentially get the Mega Lucario ex promo card, figure, and oversized card for the same price as buying them on their own.  

For more Pokémon TCG deals, the Charizard ex Special Collection is also on sale at Amazon right now. What’s more, the Fall 2025 edition of the Pokémon TCG: Collector Chest is 36% off for a limied time.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Teyana Taylor clears up the Leonardo DiCaprio Golden Globes mystery

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 11:47

Leonardo DiCaprio's viral commercial break conversation at the Golden Globes became one of the main talking points after Sunday's event. Many speculated that the One Battle After Another actor was talking to his Globe-winning co-star Teyana Taylor about her confusion over K-pop.

Alas, the speculation was incorrect. On Wednesday, Taylor appeared on The Tonight Show and confirmed to Jimmy Fallon that it wasn't her DiCaprio was speaking to. "My kid's favorite song is 'Golden'," Taylor explains, saying she already knows all about K-pop — Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters won two Golden Globes on Sunday. And as for who DiCaprio was mouthing at?

"He don't even remember who he was talking to," Taylor says. "He was like, 'I don't even know.'"

The mystery continues.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus just got its first discount of the year — save $15

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 11:44

SAVE $15: As of Jan. 15, the Amazon Fire Stick 4K Plus is on sale for $34.99 at Amazon. That's a 30% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire Stick 4K Plus $34.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $15   Get Deal

Amazon’s Fire Stick 4K has had a rebrand. It's still the same device we know and love, but now it's called the Amazon Fire Stick 4K Plus. The name was changed to differentiate it from a new model in the 4K range, the Fire TV Stick 4K Select. And as of Jan. 15, the Plus is on sale for the first time this year, bringing the price down to $34.99.

This streaming device was designed for a better performance on 4K TVs. It has support for WiFi 6, lets you stream Xbox games through Xbox Game Pass using cloud gaming, and gives you access to over 1.8 million movies and TV episodes across services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Max and more.

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Picture and sound can be enjoyed in 4K Ultra HD with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos. It even has Alexa built-in to make it easy to search or answer all your burning questions.

It's easy to set up too. Just plug the streaming stick into your TV's HDMI port, and then attach the power cable to a wall outlet. When you turn on your TV you'll be prompted to set up your Amazon account, and that's it. All your favorite shows, movies, and apps will now be in one easy-to-access place.

Get this Fire TV Stick deal from Amazon now.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The Kindle Scribe is down to its lowest-ever price at Amazon — save $140

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 11:39

SAVE $140: As of Jan. 15, the Kindle Scribe is on sale for $309.99 at Amazon. That's a discount of 31% on the list price.

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

The Kindle Scribe is exactly what you need to reach your reading goal in 2026. And if you're a writer as well as a reader, this model lets you take notes on your favorite books. As of Jan. 15, this e-reader down to its lowest-ever price of $309.99, saving you $140 on the list price.

It's time to say goodbye to a never ending cycle of notebooks. This Kindle is designed to be your new go-to place for writing, reading, and editing. It works as a digital notebook with built-in AI tools that can turn handwritten notes into typed text, summarize them, or adjust their length and tone. And writing feels close to pen on paper using the Premium Pen. This stylus comes with the device, and doesn't need charging or setting up. It works seamlessly with your Scribe.

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You can even import documents and PDFs via Send to Kindle and mark them up directly. And do this anywhere, at any time, thanks to the 10.2-inch glare-free, 300 ppi front-lit display which is comfortable to use in any light.

Get this Kindle deal from Amazon now.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The 7 best e-readers to buy: Testing Kindles, Kobos, iPads, and more

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 11:30

So, what is the best e-reader for 2026? I'm regularly testing new e-readers (and tablets) and cycling through different models to stay up to date on the best options available. So, if you're gearing up to read more books this year, I can recommend a model you'll love.

Featured Video For You Other e-readers we've tested From left to right: Kindle Paperwhite, Nook GlowLight 4 Plus, Kindle Scribe Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

Most recently, we've tested the Remarkable PaperPro and Onyx Boox Go 7 as contenders for this list. After several weeks of testing, both devices proved to be pretty good but not quite list-worthy.

Whenever you search for e-readers, Remarkable's tablets will always pop up in the search results, but unfortunately, it's hard to obtain ePUB files on the Remarkable. With Remarkable, you can access files within Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. If you have any locked ePUB files — like from Libby — you won't be able to access them on a Remarkable tablet. So, after testing the Remarkable tablet myself, it proved to be a better document reader or digital journal than an e-reader.

The Onyx Boox Go 7 is a better e-reader option than the Remarkable. It's the same size as the Kobo Libra or Amazon Kindle, but it really lags on processing speed. To read ePUB files from Libby required downloading the Adobe Digital Editions app onto the Boox Go 7, and there was so much lag while opening and closing the app. While it was an easier process than getting library books on a Nook, it was still a major pain compared to Kindle or Kobo's integrations. The Boox Go 7 lagged and took ages to load files. I was most looking forward to testing this Boox because of its page-turning buttons, but unfortunately, I found that they didn't work on my device.

An e-reader we haven't gotten around to testing is the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, which is now available for purchase. We're trying out some newer names in the e-reader game, including the Xteink X4 and DuRoBo Krono.

What about the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition?

If you're familiar with the Kindle lineup, it may come as a surprise that the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition isn't on this list. Don't get me wrong, it's great, but I think there are better options. The Signature Edition is an upgraded version of the Paperwhite, and we've compared the devices head-to-head. The short version? The Paperwhite is a better value, even with the SE's added features like auto-adjusting brightness and 32GB of storage.

If you are prepared to spend $200 on an e-reader, though, I say skip the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition and go for the Kobo Libra Colour.

Where's the Nook on this list?

In terms of big-name e-readers, you might notice one omission from this list: the Barnes & Noble Nook. I have tested this e-reader, and it was previously featured on this list. However, after testing more devices, it no longer makes the cut. In comparison to any of the Kindles or the Kobo Libra, the Nook has sloth-like performance, making it frustrating to use.

Plus, getting my library books onto the Nook was a nightmare, as it was a multi-step process that required downloading to a computer before uploading to a Nook. Its only redeeming quality was the buttons on either side of the device, which made page turning a breeze. However, unless you are a loyal buyer of Barnes & Noble books, I recommend steering clear of the Nook.

Where to get e-reader books for free

Once you get an e-reader, it's time to fill it up with books, and that doesn't necessarily mean spending money. In fact, you can load up your e-reader without spending a dime; you just need to be a bit resourceful.

The best way to read nearly any book — a classic or hot new release — is with Libby. I have read hundreds of free books with the Libby app — I wouldn't have been able to test for this guide without it. It connects with your library card, allowing you to borrow from your local library's digital collection. Plus, both Kobo and Kindle have exceptional Libby integrations.

Another way to build your library is through Stuff Your Kindle Day events. These are 24-hour opportunities led by authors that make books discounted or free.

If you're a fan of the classics or looking to discover a treasure lost to time, an online resource like Project Gutenberg has more than 75,000 books in the public domain that you can download and read on an e-reader.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to watch Love Island: All Stars online for free

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 11:13

TL;DR: Live stream the third season of Love Island: All Stars for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

We should all be seeking as little drama as possible in our private lives. There's a lot of joy to be found in a peaceful existence. That being said, there's also a great deal of joy to be found in watching other people's messy lives play out. And that's exactly what Love Island provides.

The hit show delivers weeks of flirting, breakups, and passionate debate between fame-hungry singles. It's exactly what we all need to get through these bleak winter months. And the only thing better than Love Island is Love Island: All Stars. Someone came up with the great idea to invite some of the best Love Island contestants back for a second (or third) chance at finding love.

They're looking for love, OK? They're not heading back for a quick paycheck. How dare you even suggest that.

If you're interested in watching Love Island: All Stars for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is Love Island: All Stars in 2026?

The third season of Love Island: All Stars starts on Jan. 15. This latest season is expected to run for six weeks.

How to watch Love Island: All Stars for free in 2026

The third season of Love Island: All Stars is available to live stream for free on ITVX.

ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone from around the world 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 watch Love Island: All Stars from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Love Island: All Stars for free by following these simple steps:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

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

  4. Visit ITVX

  5. Stream Love Island: All Stars for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for unblocking streaming sites are not free, but they do tend to offer free trials and money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Love Island: All Stars without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you time to watch a large chunk of the season before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming services from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for ITVX?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for accessing free live streams on ITVX, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including the UK

  • Easy-to-use apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, as well as platforms like Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and routers

  • Strict no-logging policy

  • Fast connection speeds free from throttling

  • Up to 10 simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month subscription for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Live stream Love Island: All Stars for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for January 15, 2026

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 11:10

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026:

AcrossFeature of ...
  • The answer is Two.

... every clue
  • The answer is Words.

Kindle download
  • The answer is Ebook.

Attempt again
  • The answer is Retry.

Peering pair?
  • The answer is Eyes.

DownActor Maguire
  • The answer is Tobey.

Jotted (down)
  • The answer is Wrote.

Foul smells
  • The answer is Odors.

Had been
  • The answer is Were.

Rainbow's place
  • The answer is Sky.

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

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to the latest Mini Crossword.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Hondas solar-powered trailer is a perfect match for EV owners who love camping

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 11:08

Going camping? With an EV? We've got the perfect trailer for you. The only problem? It's still a prototype.

Honda has just announced the Honda Base Station Prototype, a solar-powered camping trailer that ticks all the boxes for electric vehicle owners.

SEE ALSO: CES 2025: Hands-on with Sony-Honda's AFEELA 1 Signature

Details about the Base Station are pretty scarce. The trailer, developed by engineers and designers at Honda's U.S. R&D centers in California and Ohio, is modular, smart, with an "open, spacious, airy and bright interior." It can sleep a family of four with a foldable couch and an (optional) kids' bunk bed. And if you raise the roof, you get seven feet of stand-up space.

Raise the roof, and you get seven feet of stand-up space. Lower it down, and you're protected from the elements. Credit: Honda

The modular part comes in the form of various accessories, such as an air conditioner, an external shower, or an external kitchen. It's all powered through a lithium battery, inverter, and integrated solar powers and, if need be, you can hook it up to an external generator.

Honda didn't release any actual figures behind all this, such as battery capacity, or any of the ways that make the trailer "smart."

Honda, of course, has it pictured together with its Honda 0 SUV, which is currently also in prototype stage. The two might actually launch together, even though Honda didn't share many details about a launch date for the Base Station (the Honda 0 SUV is scheduled to launch in 2026).

As for the price, Honda said it would make it "competitively priced in the lightweight travel trailer segment."

Featured Video For You Motorola is entering the wearable AI game
Categories: IT General, Technology

Build the love: The best Lego sets for Valentine’s Day 2026

Thu, 01/15/2026 - 11:00

Valentine's Day is coming up fast, and if you're trying to find something special to give to someone this year, Lego is always a great pick. Sure, flowers and chocolates are a solid choice, but why not give Lego flowers that don't require any watering or care? Or why not give a gift that you can create together? With Lego, there's plenty of options to explore.

Whether you're searching for a bigger set to build together or something small and sweet, Lego has something perfect for Valentine's Day this year. Sets like the Bouquet of Pink Roses, the Paris – City of Love, and much more should be carefully considered if you know someone with a passion for Lego. There really is something for everyone.

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Not sure which Lego set is the best match for your special someone? Check out some of our favorite Lego sets for Valentine's Day 2026.

Bouquet of Pink Roses (10374) Credit: Lego

Lego's flower bouquet sets are great gifts to give all year round. They don't require any watering or maintenance, and most importantly, they always look nice on display! So rather than splashing out on a big bouquet of roses this year, why not pick up the delightful Bouquet of Pink Roses instead? This set comes with 789 pieces that create a lovely arrangement of 12 pink roses — four in full bloom, four blossoming, and four rosebuds — with four sprigs of baby’s breath mixed in.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Bouquet of Pink Roses (10374) $59.99 at Lego
  Shop Now Love Letters (40867) Credit: Lego

The Lego Love Letters set is a sweet display, featuring pink and red letters with flower accessories all around and blue bases. It can even be displayed in two different ways: the first is the letters "LOVE" with a heart-shaped 'V'. In the other position, the letters say “I heart U” with the heart in the middle. It's a cute set that only comes with 345 pieces.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Love Letters (40867) $19.99 at Lego
  Shop Now Heart Ornament (40638) Credit: Lego

If you're not looking for anything too complicated to build, the Lego Heart Ornament is a cute display set that can be hung up around your home as part of your Valentine's Day decorations. It comes with just 254 pieces that come together to create a heart shape made up of smaller hearts and little flowers. It also comes with a hanger for displaying.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Heart Ornament (40638) $12.99 at Amazon
  Shop Now Cute Hamster with a Flower (31376) Credit: Lego

This Lego set is easily the cutest thing on this list. Just look at that little guy! The Cute Hamster with a Flower set is an adorable gift to give if you're not looking to splash out on anything too fancy. And with just 166 pieces, it won't take too long to assemble. It's also part of the Creator 3-in-1 line, so it can also be made into a hedgehog with a flower or a posable eagle with an egg in its nest.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Cute Hamster with a Flower (31376) $9.99 at Lego
  Shop Now Happy Plants (10349) Credit: Lego

This is one of our favorite Lego sets. The Lego Happy Plants set can put a smile on anyone's face, which certainly makes them a nice pick for Valentine's Day. It comes with 217 pieces that create two very smiley plant pots that hold a baby dracaena plant and a baby pilea plant. They brighten up a room with their colorful builds and adorable faces.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Happy Plants (10349) $22.99 at Lego
  Shop Now Paris – City of Love (21064) Credit: Lego

If you're on the hunt for a Lego set that's a bit more of a challenge — and one you could work on together — the Paris – City of Love set is an exciting build to piece together. It's recommended for adults and comes with 958 pieces that create a display piece that features the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Louvre against a starry sky with a white frame. Once completed, it can be either hung up or placed on a shelf.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Paris – City of Love (21064) $79.99 at Lego
  Shop Now Tulip Bouquet (11501) Credit: Lego

Don't want to roll with traditional roses for Valentine's Day this year? Have a look at Lego's Tulip Bouquet instead. This colorful arrangement includes 576 pieces and features a collection of five different tulips in various colors and stages of bloom, alongside some green leaves and adjustable stems for when you put them on display. They're a nice and simple way to brighten up your home ahead of spring.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Tulip Bouquet (11501) $59.99 at Lego
  Shop Now
Categories: IT General, Technology

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