Mashable

Comic-Con International: San Diego has always been a barometer for where the entertainment industry is placing its biggest bets, and this year's lineup made that clearer than ever. Over the course of a single weekend, Marvel Studios, Prime Video, Apple TV, and AMC all used the convention floor to unveil casting reveals and first-look footage for some of their most closely watched projects, spanning superhero blockbusters, prestige sci-fi, and small-screen horror alike.

Long-simmering rumors finally became official announcements, decades-old franchises got new leads and new timelines, and fans packed into panels for a glimpse of what's coming to theaters and streaming over the next two years.

Here's a rundown of the biggest reveals to come out of Comic-Con 2026.

MCU's Ghost Rider Credit: Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney

Ryan Gosling was confirmed as Johnny Blaze in a new Ghost Rider film directed by Shawn Levy, ending years of speculation about the actor joining the MCU. This film is set to release in 2028.

Black Panther 3 release date reveal Credit: Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images

The same Marvel panel brought news of another long-rumored casting: David Jonsson was announced as the new Black Panther, playing the son of Chadwick Boseman's T'Challa, in a film directed by Ryan Coogler and set for release on December 15, 2028.

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power

Season 3's trailer teased Sauron's completion of the One Ring and the outbreak of full-scale war across Middle-earth. New cast additions include Simon Pegg voicing the Balrog, Eddie Marsan as Dwarven royal Thrain, and Andrew Richardson as the future King of Gondor, Anárion. Season 3 premieres November 11.

Blade Runner 2099

Prime Video debuted the first trailer for its Blade Runner series, set decades after Blade Runner 2049. Michelle Yeoh stars as Olwen, a replicant confronting the end of her life, opposite Hunter Schafer as a human fugitive on the run from Blade Runners. Ridley Scott executive produces, with Silka Luisa serving as showrunner. The series arrives November 25.

Carrie

Mike Flanagan's Carrie series got its first trailer, dragging Stephen King's telekinetic teen into the smartphone era ahead of an October 7 premiere on Prime Video. The eight-episode miniseries follows Carrie White as she endures bullying at school and abuse at home from her fanatically religious mother, Margaret — all while discovering she has telekinetic powers.

Summer H. Howell leads the new cast as Carrie White, alongside Samantha Sloyan as Margaret, Siena Agudong as Sue Snell, and Matthew Lillard as Principal Grayle, with Alison Thornton, Thalia Dudek, Amber Midthunder, Josie Totah, Arthur Conti, and Joel Oulette rounding out the ensemble.

Yaga

AMC+ and Crave released a teaser for this Canadian supernatural mystery series, starring Noah Reid as a detective investigating the disappearance of Henry Park, an heir to a commercial fishery, in a small coastal town. Park is played by Hudson Williams, known to fans of the queer romance series Heated Rivalry.

The cast also includes Carrie-Anne Moss and Clark Backo, with the series created by Kat Sandler based on her own 2019 stage play of the same name.

Neuromancer

Apple TV entered the fray outside Marvel and Prime's orbit, releasing its first trailer for an adaptation of William Gibson's cyberpunk classic, starring Callum Turner as hacker Case.

This article will continue to be updated....

Xtra, the camera company that suddenly popped up last year, is canceling preorders and issuing refunds for its upcoming Xtra Muse 2 Pro gimbal camera.

"After reviewing our product and launch readiness, XTRA has decided to pause the current Early Bird program," the company said in a statement posted on its website and in emails sent to customers viewed by Mashable. "Because we are unable to confirm a reliable launch timeline at this stage, we do not believe customers' funds should remain on hold."

Xtra customers had put down a $20 reservation for the Xtra Muse 2 Pro in exchange for a pre-order and an early bird discount of $60 off the camera when it went on sale. Along with a refund, Xtra is also issuing a 10 percent off coupon to customers that can be used on their current line of products.

Despite taking preorders, Xtra never shared a prospective launch date for the camera, which was a major point of criticism for customers across social media.

Why did Xtra cancel camera preorders?

Xtra says the refunds were due to "product and launch readiness" and didn't provide any further explanation. However, the preorder cancellations come shortly after the FCC announced investigations into eight companies, including Xtra.

DJI, the popular China-based drone and action camera company, has effectively been banned in the U.S. As Mashable previously reported, the ban started late last year after Trump's FCC cited national security concerns and data-spying issues. DJI products that were for sale before the ban can still be sold for now. Consumers with DJI devices can still use them. However, the U.S. government has not approved any new DJI products, so they can't be imported into the country.

Enter Xtra. Xtra came onto the scene last year with its lines of cameras that appear to be clones of DJI's line of cameras. The company is rumored to be a "DJI front company," or a company explicitly set up to import DJI's banned products into the U.S. Online sleuths and outlets such as The Verge have previously looked into Xtra's potential relations with DJI and found numerous similarities and connections. Xtra's Muse 2 Pro camera, for example, looks exactly like DJI's new Osmo Pocket 4 Pro camera aside from a few design alterations.

In addition, DJI has gone after competitors like Insta360 with legal claims involving its camera patents. Yet, DJI has remained mum on Xtra's products, which would appear to infringe way more than others.

The eight companies under investigation were previously asked to provide information on whether any of the products it sells should be on the list of banned items. However, none of these companies apparently responded to the FCC. As a result, the FCC is demanding the information and has levied a $25,000 fine against each of them, including Xtra.

The FCC is now looking into retroactively banning Xtra's previously approved products as well.

At this point, the status of the Xtra Muse 2 Pro is unclear. The company is not outright canceling the launch; however, the preorder cancellations and the FCC news point to a potentially grim outcome for U.S. consumers. For now, at least, U.S. consumers looking to buy an Xtra Muse 2 Pro or DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Pro can look into the Insta360 Luna Ultra, which is not banned in the country.

For years, iPhones have had various levels of water resistance. However, if you've previously submerged your iPad in water, you'll know that Apple's tablets, however, are not water-resistant. 

That will soon change.

Apple's first water-resistant iPad is currently planned to launch by the end of this year, according to a new report. The water-resistant model is expected to be the new, redesigned iPad mini.

SEE ALSO: Why pay more for iPhone Fold? This reminds me of Apple's first iPhone

The report says that Apple's approach to water resistance in the iPad differs from the iPhone. According to the report, Apple designed a "vibration-based speaker system," where sound transmits from the surface of the tablet's chassis. This means that the new iPad mini will not need physical speaker holes, which will greatly limit points of entry for water, dust, and other unwanted particles.

MacRumors points out that Apple described such a technology in a 2014 patent, which means the company has been working on this for some time.

The new iPad mini's IP rating, which measures a device's resistance to dust and liquids like water, is currently unknown. The iPhone 17 has an IP68 rating, which means it could be submerged in a maximum depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes.

The iPad mini line last had a refresh when it received the A17 Pro chipset in 2024. However, other than that, the device remained the same. The iPad mini was last redesigned in 2021. 

Bloomberg's Apple insider Mark Gurman has previously reported that the iPad mini was set to get some big upgrades, including an OLED display, which would be a first for the device. 

A release before this summer's beach trips and pool parties would've certainly been ideal. But you could always start planning for next summer. The new iPad mini is expected to launch by October.

Apple currently sells the base model iPad mini for $599 after the company hiked prices across its products earlier this year. However, according to Gurman, the addition of an OLED display could result in even higher prices for the new iPad mini.

TL;DR: The iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro are available for free right now with T-Mobile. Here's how to qualify for this limited-time offer.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 17 Free when you trade in your eligible phone on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan.. Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPhone 17 Pro Free when you switch to T-Mobile and bring your number on an Experience Beyond plan. Shop Now

Samsung has been the center of attention this week, and that makes total sense. It's not every week that a major brand drops three new foldables smartphones, two smartwatches, and smart glasses. But can we hold some space for Apple?

Apple prices are bumping in the face of RAMageddon, but you can still secure a limited-time offer on iPhones from T-Mobile. This popular mobile carrier has just dropped a fresh batch of free iPhone deals on the latest handsets:

• Apple iPhone 17 — free when you trade in your eligible phone on an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan.

• Apple iPhone 17 Pro — free when you switch to T-Mobile and bring your number on an Experience Beyond plan (no trade-in needed).

Needless to say, T-Mobile isn't handing over a new iPhone without some strings attached. The retail cost of your new phone is offset by 24 consecutive monthly bill credits. Your monthly statement will show a standard charge for financing the phone, which is immediately balanced out by an equal credit.

What exactly does this mean? You're signing up for a 24-month commitment with the network, and any unpaid balance on the phone's retail value will become due immediately if you decide to cancel your service, switch to another carrier, or upgrade to the iPhone 18 before the end of your deal.

You will also need to pay standard upfront taxes and a one-time $35 activation fee, but that's a small price to pay for the latest iPhone.

We get that at this point, it's tempting to wait for the next batch of iPhones to be announced. According to our rumor tracker, Apple is "widely expected to launch a new lineup of iPhones later this year, including the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the rumored iPhone Ultra, the company's first-ever foldable." That's exciting news for iPhone fanatics, but with prices on the rise, this could be the last example of mobile carriers offering new phones for free.

Get the Apple iPhone 17 for free this weekend with T-Mobile.

How to live stream 2026 F1 for free: Best Apple TV Deal Apple TV 7-day free trial Shop Now Best Prime Video Deal Apple TV Prime Video Channel 7-day free trial Shop Now Best Apple One Deal Apple One 30-day free trial Shop Now

This season of F1 is unlike any other. Every season of F1 has a number of fascinating storylines to follow, but due to a major set of regulation changes, there's so much uncertainty right now. And uncertainty can lead to exciting racing.

Lando Norris secured an incredible title victory on the final day of last season. Now the pressure is on McLaren to defend that title against a long list of talented drivers and motivated teams. The likes of George Russell, Kimi Antonelli, Charles Leclerc, and Lewis Hamilton are all challenging for race wins this season. Mercedes are the team to beat this season, but Ferrari are not far behind.

If you are interested in watching F1 2026 for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

What is F1?

Formula One (F1) is the highest class of international racing for open-wheel single-seater formula racing cars. A season consists of a series of races (Grands Prix) that take place in multiple countries and continents on either purpose-built circuits or closed public roads.

Lando Norris is the defending champion. McLaren won the Constructors Championship in 2025.

When is F1 in 2026?

The 2026 F1 season is the 77th edition of the championship. This year's championship features 24 Grands Prix events held all over the world between March and December:

1. Australian Grand Prix — March 8

2. Chinese Grand Prix — March 15

3. Japanese Grand Prix — March 29

4. Miami Grand Prix — May 3

5. Canadian Grand Prix — May 24

6. Monaco Grand Prix — June 7

7. Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix — June 14

8. Austrian Grand Prix — June 28

9. British Grand Prix — July 5

10. Belgian Grand Prix — July 19

11. Hungarian Grand Prix — July 26

12. Dutch Grand Prix — Aug. 23

13. Italian Grand Prix — Sept. 6

14. Spanish Grand Prix — Sept. 13

15. Azerbaijan Grand Prix — Sept. 26

16. Singapore Grand Prix — Oct. 11

17. United States Grand Prix — Oct. 25

18. Mexico City Grand Prix — Nov. 1

19. São Paulo Grand Prix — Nov. 8

20. Las Vegas Grand Prix — Nov. 21

21. Qatar Grand Prix — Nov. 29

22. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix — Dec. 6

It's important to note that these dates are only for race days. The Chinese, Miami, Canadian, British, Dutch, and Singapore GPs will host a sprint race.

How to watch F1 for free

For the first time, Apple TV has made an entire F1 race weekend available for free to viewers in the U.S., with live coverage of the Austrian Grand Prix from June 26–28. Fans can watch every session live on Apple TV — including practice, qualifying, and Sunday’s Grand Prix — with no subscription required.

In the U.S., F1 is now exclusive to Apple TV. If you want access to the whole season, an Apple TV subscription costs $12.99 per month or $99 per year.

Apple TV Opens in a new window Credit: Apple TV Apple TV (7-day free trial) Apple TV comes with a 7-day free trial for new subscribers. This is a sneaky trick, but you could sign up to watch the next F1 race and then cancel your subscription before you need to spend anything. This obviously isn't a long-term fix, but it does give you the opportunity to live stream select F1 race weekends for free. Shop Now Apple TV Prime Video Channel Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Apple TV Prime Video Channel (7-day free trial) Already an Amazon Prime member? You're in luck. You can sign up for a 7-day free trial of Apple TV+ through Prime Video Channels. This lets you watch select F1 races live with the Prime Video app. The subscription typically costs £9.99 per month after the trial ends, but you can cancel at any time. That means you can watch select races without actually spending anything. Shop Now Apple One Opens in a new window Credit: Apple One Apple One (30-day free trial) Apple One bundles Apple TV with Apple Music, Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness Plus, Apple News Plus, and 50GB of iCloud Storage for $19.95 per month after a one-month free trial. Time it right and this trial could provide access to up to four race weekends for free. You do need to be a new or returning subscriber to each of the included services to get the free trial. Shop Now

It's worth noting that the best Apple TV free-trial offer comes with purchases of new Apple devices. New subscribers can get three months of Apple TV for free after purchasing any eligible Apple product, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, or Apple TVs. This special offer goes live for 90 days after the new device is activated — that's a good chunk of the season.

TL;DR: Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Apple TV+ through Prime Video Channels to watch select F1 races for free. Watch the Hungarian GP for free with the Prime Video app.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Apple TV Prime Video Channel Watch the Hungarian GP for free with a 7-day trial Shop Now

Another weekend, another battle between the best drivers in the world. Seriously, what would we all do without a little bit of F1 to see us through to Monday?

This season of F1 continues to throw up interesting storylines. Mercedes is flying at the top of the standings, but there are clearly some issues between George Russell and his team. Meanwhile, Kimi Antonelli raced away from the competition to win again at the Belgian GP. He extended his lead over Lewis Hamilton, but Ferrari continues to cut the gap. Will we see another epic battle this weekend in Hungary?

SEE ALSO: ExpressVPN review: A stylish VPN service with proven privacy and a large U.S. presence

If you want to watch F1 2026 for free from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is the Hungarian GP?

The Hungarian GP is the 11th race of the 2026 F1 season. Here's the full schedule from the Hungaroring:

• Practice 1 — 7:30-8:30 a.m. ET on July 24

• Practice 1 — 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET on July 24

• Practice 1 — 6:30-7:30 a.m. ET on July 25

• Qualifying — 10-11 a.m. ET on July 25

• Race — 9 a.m. ET on July 26

Fans can follow all the action from this race weekend without spending anything.

How to watch the Hungarian GP for free

Most subscribers hang onto Amazon Prime for the fast shipping, Prime Day discounts, and Prime Video library. But for F1 fans in the U.S., Prime Video is a secret weapon. Because Apple TV holds exclusive U.S. broadcasting rights for F1, you can sign up for a seven-day free trial of Apple TV directly through Prime Video Channels.

That trial gives you full access to stream select races — including this weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix — for free. While the subscription rolls over to $12.99 per month after seven days, you can cancel auto-renewal in your settings right away and still stream the entire race weekend for free.

Of course, if you're already paying for Amazon Prime, calling it "completely free" is open to interpretation. But if you don't have an active membership, Amazon offers a 30-day free trial for new users. Stacking that Prime trial with the seven-day Apple TV channel trial means you are genuinely spending nothing to stream the race.

If you've already burned through that specific loophole earlier in the season, you still have a few solid workarounds:

• Apple TV: New standalone subscribers qualify for a direct seven-day free trial through Apple's app.

• Apple One: If you want more than just streaming, the Apple One tier packages Apple TV alongside Apple Music, Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, Apple News+, and 50GB of iCloud storage — and it comes with a full one-month free trial ($19.95 per month after the promotional period).

• Apple: The most generous Apple TV offer is tied to new hardware purchases. Buying an eligible iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV grants new subscribers three months of free service. You obviously have to spend money on hardware, but if you were already planning an upgrade, it effectively unlocks a massive chunk of the F1 season for free.

How to live stream 2026 F1 for free in 2026 Best Apple TV Deal Apple TV 7-day free trial Shop Now Best Prime Video Deal Apple TV Prime Video Channel 7-day free trial Shop Now Best Apple One Deal Apple One 30-day free trial Shop Now

Mashable has been testing laptops for over 10 years. Over the past two years alone, the team and I have researched dozens of models and tried more than 80 of the most promising configurations available. We use a meticulous testing procedure involving real-world stress tests and artificial benchmarks to evaluate our contenders on the basis of performance, battery life, design/build quality, and value.

This regularly updated guide serves as our laptop trophy case, highlighting the best-in-class models we've tried across different subcategories. For even more recommendations, check out my dedicated guides to the best MacBooks, the best Windows laptops, the best cheap laptops, and the best Chromebooks.

A note about laptop prices

A recent boom in AI data center construction has caused a global shortage of RAM and SSD storage chips (often referred to as "RAMageddon"). As a result, many consumer tech devices that use these components, including the best laptops, have seen steep price hikes this year. The shortage is expected to worsen and could last into 2028, driving up prices even further and making good values in the budget and mid-range tiers even scarcer. Apple was the most recent brand to raise laptop prices, with MacBooks getting $100 to $300 increases.

This is something the Mashable team is taking into consideration as we assess laptops and select ones to recommend to our readers. Moreover, we've gone back and re-evaluated several models that have gotten more expensive since we first tested them. At the time of writing, only one previous top pick has gotten so unreasonably pricey that we think it's no longer worth buying. That would be the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, which jumped from an already-high $750 to $1,000 as tested. We've since replaced it with a much more cost-effective option that's less snazzy, but still apt for most Chromebook users. You can read more about it and our other current picks below.

One thing to know before you buy a Windows laptop

Many great Windows laptops we've tried run on Qualcomm's Snapdragon X and X2 series chips, which use ARM-based architecture instead of standard x86 architecture like Intel and AMD chips. The Zenbook A14 and A16 are two great example of outstanding ARM laptops.

These Qualcomm chips are great because they offer amazing performance and battery life, but they're not compatible with some specialty software and PC games. Having said that, ARM support is getting better and should dramatically improve in the near future. Right now, I would only avoid ARM laptops if you're a college student, or if gaming is the main thing you do on your PC. You can read more about this in my best Windows laptops guide.

Recent updates to this guide

I added two new picks to this guide in late July 2026:

• The Asus ExpertBook Ultra is our new favorite business laptop for its dazzling ultra-thin-and-light design and impressive brawn.

• The Asus Zenbook A16 joins the ranks as the best 16-inch laptop for most people: It's also quite portable, its everyday performance is virtually unrivaled, and it's a stellar value to boot.

• I removed the Alienware 16X Aurora gaming laptop because the configuration we tested was out of stock at the time of writing. We're currently testing potential replacements.

I've also adjusted the prices of the three MacBooks featured in this guide. Apple made them $100 to $300 more expensive in mid-June because of the ongoing memory shortage.

For a short amount of time, a power outage feels nice. It’s an excuse to cancel plans and settle on the couch with a good book (or an e-reader) instead. That calm feeling fades once a low-battery alert shows up on your phone, and it’s never convenient to not have WiFi at home. But maybe even more inconvenient is the threat of the refrigerator heating up during a power outage.

Food spoilage is one of the biggest bummers of a power outage. It’s never fun to start calculating how many hours you’ve been without power and how many times someone has opened the fridge, releasing precious cooling. Jackery, one of the leaders in portable power stations, has a new solution. I’ve tested dozens of portable power stations, and I’ll admit I find this model to be both functional and one of the best-looking models out there.

Jackery FridgeGuard $549.99 at Costco
$799 Save $249.01   Shop Now at Costco Shop Now at Jackery What’s special about the Jackery FridgeGuard?

Immediately, you’ll notice the Jackery FridgeGuard does not look like most other portable power stations. Instead of the standard box shape with a handle, the FridgeGuard is a slim rectangle, measuring just a bit over 2.5 inches tall. The unique shape makes it ideal for sitting on top of the refrigerator. Jackery also includes two metal feet that attach to the bottom of the power station if you’d rather have it stand up vertically next to the fridge.

She's just 2.63 inches thick. Credit: Lauren Allain

But looks aside, the primary goal of the Jackery FridgeGuard is to keep your refrigerator cooling during a power outage. It has 1,024Wh of battery capacity, which Jackery says should keep a standard refrigerator cooling for about 15 hours.

When testing the Jackery, I plugged it into my bedside Blueair Blue Signature Air Purifier, and set it on a high fan speed, which pulled 17W. That power use means the Jackery would keep my bedroom air purifier powered up for about 27 hours. It also looked pretty slick when I used it at my home workstation.

Testing out the FridgeGuard as a laptop backup system. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

I was pleasantly surprised by the weight of the Jackery FridgeGuard while testing. At a bit over 23 pounds, I was able to get it on top of my fridge without asking for help. That was pleasing to my independent nature that much prefers to not ask for help. 

Spec highlights of the Jackery FridgeGuard

• Capacity: 1,024Wh

• Battery type: LiFePO₄

• Surge: 1,600W

• Weight: Approx. 23.2 pounds

• Dimensions: 23.6 in × 12.8 in × 2.6 in

• Ports: AC (1)

• Expected battery lifespan: 6.000 cycles to 70%+ capacity

• Charge temperature: -4 to 113 degrees F

• Discharge temperature: -4 to 113 degrees F

• Expandability: One Jackery FridgeGuard Battery (1,024Wh)

Easy plug-and-play solution

On top of the physical design, the very nature of how the FridgeGuard functions is unique. Jackery used a plug-and-play function for this power station. Stick it on top of the fridge, plug it into the wall, and then plug your refrigerator into the Jackery, and you’ll have consistent power to the fridge when grid power fails.

The Jackery has a 10-millisecond uninterrupted power supply (UPS), which means it’ll take over powering the fridge within 10 milliseconds of a grid outage. Since we’re often not home or are asleep when the power goes out, using the Jackery FridgeGuard means there’s no concern about a gap in power to the refrigerator.

Once grid power comes back online, the Jackery will recharge itself to 100 percent and be ready for the next outage. From the Jackery app, you can monitor battery level, power output, and power input. 

The sleek design makes it versatile at home

In all honesty, portable power stations are for function, not looks. For the most part, we don’t need a power station to look nice. We’re hauling them to the campground, the job site, or using them in the yard to power up tools. But if you’re placing a portable power station on top of your refrigerator to live there permanently, the slim Jackery FridgeGuard looks a lot nicer than a standard brick of a portable power station.

The gray colorway blends in well with my stainless steel fridge. That wouldn’t be the case if I placed the black Jackery Explorer 1000 V2 up there with its orange accents.

While the name suggests using it in the kitchen, I found it great to use around the rest of the house while testing. It makes for a great power backup solution if you sleep on an adjustable base or have a bed cooling system like the Eight Sleep Pod.

I tested out the Jackery FridgeGuard with an air purifier beside my bed. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

It’s also great for keeping the WiFi router online during a power outage or using it as backup for your home computer. If you sleep with a CPAP, it offers reassurance that you’ll have support all night in case the power cuts out. When testing, I found the Jackery FridgeGuard to be either silent or have a barely detectable fan hum. I never found the noise to be bothersome, even when I had it next to my bed at night.

SEE ALSO: Can a $250 alarm clock break my doomscrolling habit? I slept next to the Dreamie for a month to find out. What I don’t love about the Jackery FridgeGuard

The most glaring downside to the FridgeGuard is the port selection. It’s not even fair to say selection because the FridgeGuard has a single AC port. That’s sufficient if you’re using the Jackery for refrigerator backup power since it only requires a single port. Otherwise, you’re going to have to prioritize what gets to utilize the power of the FridgeGuard. 

The on-unit display includes information like remaining battery, total output, and total input. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable The back of the FridgeGuard has the single AC port, the charging port, and a vent. Credit: Lauren Allain / Mashable

It’s also not the best deal when it comes to portable power stations. At full price, Jackery lists the FridgePower at $799. That’s the same list price as the Jackery Explorer 1000 V2, which has a smidge more power at 1,070Wh but a lot more functionality. The Explorer 1000 V2 has three AC ports, two USB-C, one USB-A, and an onboard light.

Should you get the Jackery FridgeGuard?

If your main concern during a power outage is food spoiling, the Jackery FridgeGuard could be a great solution. Its unique design can easily tuck on top of your fridge, and the plug-and-play nature means you’ll have immediate power backup when grid power fails. That’s the ultimate convenience for powering your fridge, an aquarium, or a CPAP machine should the power go out in the middle of the night.

If you’re looking for a portable power station to take camping or use on the jobsite, you’re probably better off with a different model.

Other models worth considering

Both Bluetti and Anker Solix introduced fridge-specific models in the same quarter that Jackery launched the FridgeGuard. The world of portable power stations is getting crowded with models that only have the minorest of minor differences. So I’m surprised to say, all three fridge-backup models are glaringly different. 

The Jackery FridgeGuard is the thinnest, so if that’s your main priority, go with the FridgeGuard. Otherwise, here’s a brief rundown of the other two models I’d consider for fridge backup.

Anker Solix S2000

Coming with double the power of the Jackery FridgeGuard, the Anker designed the Solix S2000 as a model that’ll sit nicely atop or beside a refrigerator. Anker says this 2,010Wh is capable of keeping a standard refrigerator running for up to 35 hours. If your home tends to experience longer outages, this capacity might be a better fit compared to the Jackery.

The Solix S2000 also has more ports. You get three AC on the front and dual AC on the back. When placed on your countertop, you can use a rear AC for powering the refrigerator while keeping the front AC ports open for the coffee maker or a lamp. It also has dual USB-C and a USB-A for recharging phones, earbuds, and other small devices. But keep in mind the Solix S2000 has a more traditional portable power station shape. You can set it on top of your fridge, but it might block cupboards.

Anker Solix S2000 $599.99 at Amazon
$1,199 Save $599.01   Shop Now at Amazon Bluetti FridgePower

The Bluetti FridgePower has a nearly identical physical layout to the Jackery FridgeGuard. The main difference is the battery capacity. The Jackery comes with 1,024Wh while the Bluetti has almost double at 2,016Wh. In short, that’s going to keep the refrigerator cooling for twice as long. It has two AC ports compared to the single AC port on the Jackery.

The slim design is similar to the Jackery, but the Bluetti is a bit larger and much heavier at 41 pounds compared to the FridgeGuard’s 23ish pounds. The Bluetti FridgePower also tends to be the most expensive model compared to the Jackery and Anker Solix.

Bluetti FridgePower $898.99 at Amazon
$1,499 Save $600.01   Shop Now at Amazon How to buy the Jackery FridgeGuard

At the time of launch and writing, the Jackery FridgeGuard is exclusive to Costco and Jackery. Costco members get a better deal, however, where the fridge backup is available for $549.99. If you’re lucky enough to find it in stock at Jackery, the station sells for $799. Jackery also sells a mounting bracket for $49 if you’d rather attach it to a nearby wall instead of setting it on top of the fridge or on the floor.

Jackery FridgeGuard $549.99 at Costco
$799 Save $249.01   Shop Now at Costco Shop Now at Jackery

It must feel good to be a fan of the cyberpunk genre.

Apple TV has released the first trailer for its adaptation of William Gibson's 1984 sci-fi classic Neuromancer — one of the foundational texts of the cyberpunk genre. The novel follows Case, a washed-up cyberspace hacker recruited by a mysterious ex-soldier to pull off a high-stakes heist alongside a razor-fingered assassin.

Set against a neon-drenched, futuristic Japan, the trailer leans noticeably brighter than fans of the novel's noir-soaked prose might expect. Callum Turner (Eternity, One Night Only) headlines as Case, joined by Briana Middleton (The History of Sound) as the "razorgirl" Molly Millions and Mark Strong (The Penguin, Dune: Prophecy) as the enigmatic Armitage. The ensemble also includes Clémence Poésy, Peter Sarsgaard, Emma Laird, Max Irons, André De Shields, Isabella Pappas, and Dane DeHaan.

The ten-episode series is set to premiere on Apple TV on Jan. 22, 2027.

Horror's favorite It girl is getting her television series debut, with the first trailer now out for Mike Flanagan's (The Haunting of Hill House) adaptation of Stephen King's Carrie.

SEE ALSO: Apple TV gives cyberpunk fans their first look at 'Neuromancer'

The eight-episode miniseries follows Carrie White as she endures bullying at school and abuse at home from her fanatically religious mother, Margaret — all while discovering she has telekinetic powers. As the trailer shows, Flanagan's version drags King's 1974 novel into the present day, trading its original setting for a story steeped in social media and viral humiliation. The 2013 film adaptation made a similar leap into modern times, so here's hoping this take sticks the landing.

It's worth noting that technically, this isn't Carrie's first trip to TV. A 2002 television movie, directed by David Carson and written by Hannibal's Bryan Fuller, starred Angela Bettis (Girl, Interrupted) in the title role — though Flanagan's series marks the story's first full episodic adaptation.

Summer H. Howell leads the new cast as Carrie White, alongside Samantha Sloyan as Margaret, Siena Agudong as Sue Snell, and Matthew Lillard as Principal Grayle, with Alison Thornton, Thalia Dudek, Amber Midthunder, Josie Totah, Arthur Conti, and Joel Oulette rounding out the ensemble. Flanagan serves as writer, showrunner, and director on four of the eight episodes.

Carrie premieres on Prime Video October 7.

After years of rumors and on-again, off-again flirtation between Ryan Gosling (Project Hail Mary, Barbie) and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it's now confirmed: the actor will play Johnny Blaze, aka Ghost Rider, in an upcoming film.

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For those unfamiliar with the character, Ghost Rider is the demonic alter ego of stuntman Johnny Blaze, who strikes a deal to sell his soul to the demon Mephisto in order to save his father's life. Blaze's soul is then bonded to Zarathos, the Spirit of Vengeance, transforming him into a leather-jacketed, motorcycle-riding, flame-skulled avenger. Thus, Blaze is forced to punish the wicked and evil whenever Mephisto needs him to.

Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige introduced Gosling to a packed Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con to roaring applause. The titular film will be directed by Shawn Levy, who previously helmed Deadpool & Wolverine, and is slated for release in 2028. It marks the first film adaptation of the supernatural antihero since 2007's Ghost Rider, starring Nicolas Cage, and its 2012 sequel, Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance.

On the television side, Gabriel Luna played the Robbie Reyes variant of Ghost Rider in the fourth season of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. That appearance was meant to lead into a solo spin-off slated for 2020, but a "creative impasse" in late 2019 led to the project's cancellation.

Gosling and Levy are already collaborators. The two are currently working together on Star Wars: Starfighter, due out in May 2027, and reportedly spent downtime on that set trading ideas for a Ghost Rider film.

Alongside the reveal of Gosling at Hall H, Feige also announced Black Panther III as a part of the MCU's 2028 slate. The film will star David Jonsson (Alien: Romulus, Industry) as the titular Black Panther, aka T'Challa II. The last we saw of T'Challa II was his introduction as a small boy in Wakanda Forever, revealed to be the son of Chadwick Bosman's T'Challa with Nakia (Lupita Nyong'o).

Not much is known about the plot for Ghost Rider, but given the character's ties to Mephisto, it won't be a surprise to see Sacha Baron Cohen reprise the role from Ironheart.

TL;DR: Protect up to nine devices with the AdGuard Family Plan Lifetime Subscription for $11 (reg. $169.99) through July 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdGuard AdGuard Family Plan: Lifetime Subscription $11
$169.99 Save $158.99   Get Deal

It doesn’t matter if your household has two devices or 20, keeping everyone’s online activity protected can quickly become complicated. The AdGuard Family Plan simplifies things by covering up to nine devices with a single lifetime subscription. Through July 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT, new users can get it for $11 (reg. $169.99).

The Family Plan is designed specifically for households rather than individual users. In addition to blocking intrusive ads across supported devices, it helps reduce online tracking, warns about phishing sites, and adds another layer of protection against malware. That means fewer distractions while browsing and more peace of mind when the whole family is online.

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One great feature is the parental controls. Parents can restrict access to inappropriate or adult content while still giving kids access to the sites and apps they know and love. Combined with privacy protection that helps hide browsing activity from trackers, the plan focuses on creating a safer online experience for everyone using the family’s devices.

The Family Plan works across desktop and mobile platforms, making it easy to protect laptops, phones, and tablets under a single subscription. Since it’s a lifetime plan, you won’t have to worry about monthly renewals or annual subscription costs after the initial purchase.

This offer is available to new users only, it covers up to nine devices, and you have to redeem your code within 30 days of purchase.

If you’re looking for an easy way to protect multiple devices without juggling separate subscriptions, the AdGuard Family Plan Lifetime Subscription is price-dropped to $11 (reg. $169.99) through July 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Microsoft Office Professional 2021 includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Access, Publisher, and Teams (free version). Get a lifetime Windows license for $27.97 (reg. $219.99).

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows: Lifetime License $27.97
$219.99 Save $192.02   Get Deal

Microsoft keeps releasing new versions of Office, but that doesn’t mean everyone needs the latest one. For plenty of entrepreneurs, freelancers, students, and everyday office workers, Office Professional 2021 still checks every important box. For a limited time, a lifetime license is just $27.97 (reg. $219.99).

Office Professional 2021 includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Access, Publisher, and the free version of Teams, giving you a complete productivity suite that works offline after installation. It’s compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11, so you can keep working with the familiar desktop apps you already rely on.

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Microsoft 365 includes extras like cloud storage, AI-powered tools, and continuous feature updates, but not everyone needs them. If you’re perfectly happy with the familiar Office apps you’ve been using for years, Office 2021 delivers the essentials without an ongoing subscription.

Better yet, it’s a one-and-done purchase. Buy it once, install it on one Windows PC, and keep using the software without worrying about another subscription renewal or future price increase. The license is tied directly to your device rather than your Microsoft account, which some users may prefer for its straightforward licensing model.

It’s also surprisingly well-rounded for the price. Compared with Office Home & Business 2024, which includes five core desktop apps, Office Professional 2021 comes with eight: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Access, Publisher, and Teams (free version). That includes Access for database management and Publisher for desktop publishing, although Microsoft plans to end Publisher support in Oct. 2026.

Normally $219.99, you can grab a lifetime license to Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for just $27.97.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

There's a commonly asked question about AdultFriendFinder, everyone's favorite spicy dating platform: Is AFF safe to use? We get it. Unlike other big-name dating sites, its interface is packed with adult content. It's extremely NSFW and appears to be a potential breeding ground for scams. Wannabe daters are right to question its legitimacy — they understandably want to know whether AFF is the real deal.

To better understand the risks of using AdultFriendFinder, we consulted Anna Larkina, a Web Data and Privacy Analysis Expert at Kaspersky, one of the world's leading cybersecurity services, about the kinds of threats users might face on AFF and how they can mitigate those risks.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdultFriendFinder AdultFriendFinder   Learn More Understanding the risks of online dating

To begin, it's worth remembering that there's a risk inherent to using any online service, whether it's an adult dating site or otherwise. Even the most reputable websites have been exploited and experienced major hacks over the years. “Users should remember that any service can potentially encounter various cybersecurity issues,” Larkina told us. That includes “data leaks, attacks on third-party contractors, or issues related to the human factor.” 

But the risks are, of course, higher on certain websites. With a regular merchant website, for instance, you’re only handing over your credit card information (which is very valuable, admittedly), but with a dating site, you’re potentially providing your credit card details plus crucial personal information, from your date of birth and nationality to your address and phone number. That's information that can prove very appealing to scammers and bad-faith actors.

SEE ALSO: Is Hinge really 'designed to be deleted'? I tested it to find out.

While this is a risk you take with any dating service, AdultFriendFinder is perhaps more vulnerable than most dating sites because of the nature of its content and user base, so it’s important to understand the potential issues.

What risks are specific to AdultFriendFinder?The “adult content” angle

While NSFW is permitted — encouraged, even — on AFF, users are under no obligation to post nude photos of themselves, or get down and dirty on a webcam feed. Many, many people opt to do so, of course, and while there's no judgment here — no siree, let that freak flag fly high and proud — you are risking potentially awkward conversations with family, friends, or co-workers if they happen to stumble across your account. (That would mean they'd have to fess up to being AFF users too, but even so...)

Unfortunately, bad actors can exploit and use your own personal information against you.

“Data from services with adult content or dating services can be especially sensitive for users, because it’s more personal,” warns Larkina. “If fraudsters somehow obtain such private data, they can use it for more ‘efficient’ blackmailing or targeted phishing.” Needless to say, you should be wary of how you use the site and what information you share, especially if you have a public-facing job.

AFF security breaches

While dating sites invest heavily in cybersecurity protections, online threats are constant and keep evolving all the time. Hackers eager to discover treasure troves of personal and financial information often target online dating platforms, which can make users feel super vulnerable.

AdultFriendFinder has suffered two major security breaches, which is actually a pretty stellar record of security over its entire 30-year history. In 2016, hackers gained access to the personal information of four million AFF users before the breach was found and stopped. And a larger breach occurred in 2016, affecting some 300 million AFF accounts, including 15 million that had been officially deleted by users but whose data had not been properly expunged from the AFF servers.

Phishing scams

Another common hacking technique — and one particularly effective on dating websites — is phishing, in which a bad actor assumes a false identity to gain your trust and deceive you into revealing sensitive or compromising information. It's easy to do on dating sites because, by their very nature, people sign up specifically to search people out and make connections. Scammers can pose as attractive people, telling users exactly what they want to hear and luring them into the scam.

SEE ALSO: All your Tinder questions, answered

To combat phishing, AFF offers the ability to verify identities with government-issued identification. This verification process is still an optional extra — it's not mandatory when setting up an account. We recommended doing it though, and setting a search filter to verified accounts only. It's a surefire way to protect yourself against bad actors.

Can your AFF account be found?

While the private information you give AFF (your real name and email address, for example) isn't public-facing, AFF’s dating profiles are public by default, so if you include a picture of your face (as many accounts do), you can be recognized by friends, co-workers, and family members. 

And since AFF has suffered two major hacks before, there’s always a chance it could happen again, which could result in your email address and information ending up in a dodgy database.

How to protect your online identity when using AdultFriendFinder

Does this all mean you should never use AdultFriendFinder, or any dating site? Absolutely not. We're here to help you protect yourself and stay vigilant, not to discourage you from signing up. 

Larkina has shared an additional list of best practices to help you mitigate risks while having fun on AFF or any other dating site:

1. Don’t use a professional email address to sign up for a dating site. If you’re especially nervous, consider creating a new email address just for the purposes of signing up.

2. To protect your accounts, use strong and unique passwords, change them regularly, and if possible, enable two-factor authentication

3. Be extremely cautious with what you share with strangers, especially when it comes to sensitive information or intimate photos. “Always assess reputational and other risks before posting or sending anything,” cautions Larkina.

4. When using AFF in particular, limit your interactions to users who have verified their identity

Summing up her advice, Larkina urges online dating service users to treat these “platforms as public spaces, not as private ones” as far as possible, and be ever mindful that “every piece of data you provide — email, phone number, username, etc. — becomes part of your digital footprint.” If you’re careful about what you share and who you share it with, you can safely enjoy AdultFriendFinder and any other dating site.

As one of the true OGs of online dating, AdultFriendFinder has a sizeable community of singles and non-monogamous users looking for steamy fun. But that doesn’t mean using the site is necessarily straightforward. In fact, AFF, as its users call it, has been online for so long that its web interface can feel dated and counterintuitive, with key features requiring you to navigate a whole manner of menus and sub-menus. 

Making the most of AFF means a certain amount of trial and error, or at least some guidance from someone with an intimate knowledge of the spicy hookup platform.

That's why we've outlined four essential tips below to get you up and running on AFF and help connect with more people for more kink-filled fun. That said, it also helps to keep an open mind about it all. If you enter AFF with a narrow idea of exactly what you want, you'll likely be disappointed. But if you start your search with an open-minded curiosity and just go along for the ride (pun very much intended), you can discover new things about yourself — and maybe even your pleasure points — in the process.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdultFriendFinder AdultFriendFinder   Learn More

Here are four essential steps for getting the most out of your AdultFriendFinder experience:

Fill out your full AFF profile 

Sure, this is an obvious step with any and every online dating service, but it’s even more important on AFF because the site doesn’t entirely rely on a carousel-style presentation of dating profiles like other apps. Everything from your age to your gender to your sexuality to your list of personal kinks can help make you more discoverable to other AFF members, so the less you fill out, the harder it is for the site to make your profile discoverable. 

This is true even if your personal kink list is short or leans towards the conventional, or if it’s long and girthy and leans towards the exotic; trust us when we say there are people out there who are looking for the very same quirks and kinks and sexuality specifics, so it's worth taking your time to be specific and details. It will pay off in the long run.

SEE ALSO: Is Hinge really 'designed to be deleted'? I tested it to find out.

Also, don’t sleep on videos. Unlike many dating sites that allow only profile pictures, AFF permits its members to upload short videos to their profiles. This is a fantastic way of showing others that you’re a real person — as opposed to a bot, which you'll find plenty of on AFF — and also helps you show off some personality. Just be wary of putting nude content upfront in your profile. You can do this if you wish, of course — AFF is all about the NSFW content — but putting that kind of content out there does raise privacy issues.

Verify your AFF account as soon as possible

AdultFriendFinder throws up very few barriers when you're creating your account. That makes it very easy for anyone to join, but it also means there is a huge amount of spam and bots clogging up the platform. To combat this, they’ve also created a profile verification system using the Confirm ID service. 

It requires you to share government ID for cast-iron verification, but the benefits to your profile will give you major peace of mind. It means photo authentication, age confirmation, and location verification, all of which help others trust that your profile is authentic. When the process is complete, you'll see a blue checkmark beneath your profile photo, just to the right of your username, which helps people identify your profile at a glance and boosts your visibility in search results, as search results prioritize verified users.

Be selective with your search criteria

If you use the site’s search function, you’ll find that you can be extremely specific and selective. And if you know exactly who and what you want, by all means, narrow your search, but if you’re on AFF to be surprised, it’s also worth being less selective from time to time.

For example, if you know you want an in-person date for next week, it obviously makes sense to narrow your location search to people who live near you. But what if you don’t know exactly what you want, or if you’re open to a sultry chat with a stranger half a world away? In that case, distance is irrelevant, and you should consider turning that filter off.

SEE ALSO: All your Tinder questions, answered

On the other hand, there are quite a few filters that are turned off by default that we actually recommend you turn on. For example, the default profile filter shows you all people who have bothered to upload photos, but while that’s a good start, it’s not enough to help you wade through the huge number of users. We strongly recommend narrowing it down to Verified/Confirmed users, since those people all proved their identity the same way you did (see above). That way, you can trust that your search results and potential connections are 100 percent legit. It's another means of filtering out the spam.

Another useful filter is the Last Visit, which by default is set to "All." We recommend specifying accounts that have been active within the last month. That's because lots of people sign up to AFF then never bother checking back in. Other users go inactive for weeks or even months at a time. If you stick with the default "All" setting, you risk messaging accounts that you might never get a reply from.

Explore the live-chat communities

AdultFriendFinder isn’t a traditional dating website, so don't use it like one. The search-and-swipe dating app method is tried and true, but it’s also a bit played out, and one of AFF’s biggest strengths is its larger community offerings. There's more to it than swiping — or should we say swinging? — left or right.

There are lots of forums to explore, all based around common interests (though you should know that some of these interests — or kinks — are not so common), or you can venture into a user’s livestream and interact with them and others there. AFF even has a dedicated Stories section, where users can share their memories or try their hand at writing erotica. That's all well and good for anyone with a knack for the written word, but if you're more visual, you can set up a webcam stream and invite others to tune in. 

For all of the above, AFF tracks not only which stories/streams/group chats are new but also which are trending, making it very easy to jump into a popular discussion or keep up with the latest site news.

Upgrade your AFF membership tier

As with other dating sites and apps, you only get the most out of AFF when you sign up for a paid membership. It is entirely possible to use AFF and interact without handing over your credit card information, but the site’s best features and functions are paywalled. And it has to be said that the advantages — visibility, communication options, and site functionality are all just too good to ignore.

Gold and VIP members receive special icons on their profiles, and these profiles are given priority in every search, regardless of the criteria. Because there are thousands of potential profile options for almost every search criterion that isn’t location-based, it’s very difficult to stand out from the crowd on AFF as a free user.

Additionally, if you fork out for the upgraded VIP membership, you’ll unlock an entire section dedicated exclusively to VIPs. It's the dating site equivalent of entering the velvet-roped area of a night club; you'll find the most glamorous people hiding there. VIP members even get additional points to spend on digital gifts or lavish on live streamers who catch your eye. This is another great way of standing out from the crowd. 

The learning curve on AdultFriendFinder is steeper than most other dating sites, and much steeper than most dating apps, but if you follow the above tips and you're willing to experiment, you’ll encounter more than a few fun and sexy surprises along the way. 

SAVE $1,100: At T-Mobile, get $1,100 off a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra when you activate a line on an Experience More or Beyond Plan. Pre-order now before it arrives on Aug. 7.

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$2,099.99 Save $1,100.00   Pre-order Here

This week, Samsung dropped a whole new line-up of redesigned foldables. The new collection includes the Galaxy Fold 8 and Fold 8 Ultra. The Fold8 Ultra is the most expensive of the bunch but also the most advanced. However, T-Mobile is providing a rare savings opportunity.

As of July 26, all the new Samsung Galaxy foldable phones are available for preorder before they arrive on Aug. 7. At T-Mobile, they're offering $1,100 off the Samsung Galaxy Fold 8 Ultra when you activate a line on an Experience More or Beyond Plan. That's over half the price of the phone, bringing it down to $999.99.

T-Mobile's Experience More plan is the carrier's most popular, at $140 per month with unlimited premium data. For an upgraded experience, go with the Beyond plan, which includes everything in the More Plan plus T-Satellite service.

The Samsung Galaxy Fold8 is a premium smartphone. It has a 6.5-inch AMOLED cover display, which opens into an 8-inch screen. The hinge is undetectable for a flat, high-definition experience right in your pocket. It takes content creation to a new level with the new My FanCam feature which reframes video to follow the action.

Pre-order the Samsung Galaxy Fold8 Ultra at T-Mobile and save $1,100 when you activate an Experience More or Beyond plan.

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

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

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

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

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

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

Water-based.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

HYDRO

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Comical.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for July 26, 2026 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

FUNNY

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Nominate your favorite creators today

Hurdle Word 3 hint

To spin.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for July 26 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for July 26, 2026 Hurdle Word 3 answer

TWIRL

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Barbecue.

Hurdle Word 4 answer

GRILL

Final Hurdle hint

3D shape.

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

PRISM

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

The Moon will look nearly full tonight as it continues through the waxing gibbous phase. Although the Full Moon is still a few days away, where we are in the lunar cycle means that most of its visible surface is already illuminated.

What is today’s Moon phase?

As of Sunday, July 26, NASA's Daily Moon Guide tracker tells us the Moon phase is in Waxing Gibbous phase, with 90% of its surface visible.

Without the assistance of any visual aids, tonight you should be to see the Mares Fecunditatis, Serenitatis, and Tranquillitatis. Binoculars will also help you to see the Alps Mountains, Archimedes Crater, and the Gassendi Crater. Finally, with a telescope you'll see all this plus the Apollo 12 landing spot, the Schiller Crater, and the Caucasus Mountains.

When is the next Full Moon?

The next Full Moon will take place on July 29.

What are Moon phases?

The Moon takes roughly 29.5 days to complete its journey around Earth, passing through eight distinct phases during each lunar cycle, according to NASA. While the Moon’s same side is always visible from our planet, the portion of its surface lit by the Sun changes as it moves along its orbit. These shifting levels of illumination are what create the different appearances we see throughout the month, from a slender crescent shape to a half-lit Moon and finally a bright Full Moon, before the cycle begins once again.

The eight phases are:

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.

Today's Connections: Sports Edition will be easier if you've ever gone fishing.

As we've shared in previous hints stories, this is a version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight, and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier — so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections: Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. The sports Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. Here's a hint for today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow: Ohio

• Green: Gone fishing

• Blue: Seen in a logo

• Purple: Sounds like an NHL team

Here are today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow: Ohio Teams

• Green: Fishing Gear

• Blue: Found in MLB Team Logos

• Purple: Ends in an NHL Team

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections: Sports Edition #671 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• Ohio Teams: BROWNS, BUCKEYES, CAVALIERS, CREW

• Fishing Gear: HOOK, SINKER, SPOON, TACKLE BOX

• Found in MLB Team Logos: BASEBALL GLOVE, BRIDGE, CROWN, SOCKS

• Ends in an NHL Team: BLUE DEVILS, BOILERS, PF FLYERS, STOCKINGS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to play Pips

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

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for July 26, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for July 26, 2026 Easy difficulty hints, answers for July 26 Pips

Number (8): Everything in this space must add up to 8. The answer is 2-3, placed vertically; 6-6, placed horizontally.

Number (11): Everything in this space must add up to 11. The answer is 6-6, placed horizontally; 5-3, placed vertically.

Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 2-3, placed vertically; 1-3, placed horizontally.

Equal (3): Everything in this space must be equal to 3. The answer is 1-3, placed horizontally; 5-3, placed vertically.

Less Than (2): Everything in this space must be less than 2. The answer is 4-0, placed vertically.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for July 26 Pips

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

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

Equal (5): Everything in this space must be equal to 5. The answer is 5-5, placed vertically; 5-3, placed vertically.

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

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

Hard difficulty hints, answers for July 26 Pips

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

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

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

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

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

Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 4-5, placed horizontally.

Number (10): Everything in this space must add up to 10. The answer is 0-5, placed horizontally; 5-1, placed horizontally.

Not Equal: Everything in this space must be different. The answer is 0-3, placed horizontally; 2-2, placed vertically; 0-5, placed horizontally; 1-6, placed vertically.

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

Number (3): Everything in this space must add up to 3. The answer is 5-1, placed horizontally; 2-0, placed vertically.

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

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

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

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

Number (7): Everything in this space must add up to 7. The answer is 3-4, placed vertically; 3-5, placed vertically.

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

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

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