Mashable

Today's Connections: Sports Edition will require some sports and pop culture knowledge.

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.

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

Each puzzle features 16 words, and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise 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.

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

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

SEE ALSO: 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: Stats

• Green: Speedy

• Blue: GOAT runners

• 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: Baseball Stats

• Green: Moves Fast

• Blue: Hall of Fame Running Backs

• Purple: NHL Teams, Minus the First Letter

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 #594 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• Baseball Stats: ERRORS, HITS, RUNS, WALKS

• Moves Fast: BOLTS, RACES, SCOOTS, SPRINTS

• Hall of Fame Running Backs: JAMES, RIGGINS, SANDERS, SAYERS

• NHL Teams, Minus the First Letter: ANGERS, RUINS, SLANDERS, TARS

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.

The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult if you believe in fate.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

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

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

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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

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

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for May 10, 2026 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: Found on Spotify

• Green: Meant to be

• Blue: Cocktail terms

• Purple: Time of renewal

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Vote for your favorite creators today

Here are today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: Music player buttons

• Green: Destined

• Blue: Verbs in making a mojito

• Purple: What "Spring" might refer to

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 #1064 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Music player buttons: PLAY, REPEAT, SHUFFLE, SKIP

• Destined: BOUND, CERTAIN, FATED, SURE

• Verbs in making a mojito: GARNISH, MUDDLE, POUR, STIR

• What "Spring" might refer to: COIL, FOUNTAIN, LEAP, SEASON

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 May 10, 2026

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

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

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

Today's NYT Strands hints are easy if you have good eyes.

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 May 10, 2026 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: We all saw it

The words are related to clarity.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Vote for your favorite creators today

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe lucidity.

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 Clear Cut.

NYT Strands word list for May 10

• Overt

• Obvious

• Blatant

• Clear Cut

• Flagrant

• Brazen

• Glaring

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.

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

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 May 10, 2026 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for May 10, 2026 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A hooded jacket.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Vote for your favorite creators today

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter A appears twice

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter P.

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...

PARKA

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints. Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

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

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.

Regardless of whether or not anyone wanted such a thing, Prime Video is turning into TikTok.

Amazon announced in a press release on Friday that the Prime Video mobile app has a new feed for Clips, which are short, shareable video clips taken from Prime Video content. This feature was first created with NBA games broadcast on Prime Video in mind, but this new development expands it to presumably include shows like The Boys and other Prime originals. Users can access the Clips feed by scrolling down on the home page to the Clips carousel and tapping any Clip.

SEE ALSO: Prime Video will restrict basic users to HD streaming

From there, Clips can be shared with other users by copying and pasting a link. Users can also like Clips or use them as a gateway to access whatever show or movie is on display in said Clip. Right now, the feature is available to "select customers" in the United States on Android, iOS, and Fire Tablet devices. It'll become available to more people over the summer.

“As a first-stop entertainment destination, Prime Video offers customers a vast selection of premium content, and we want to make it as easy and seamless as possible for them to discover what's most relevant," Prime Video executive Brian Griffin said. "Clips gives customers a whole new way to browse with short, personalized snippets tailored to their interests. Whether they have a few minutes to scroll or are looking for something to watch when they have more time, entertainment is just a tap away.”

The TikTok comparison is obvious, though it should be noted that it doesn't sound like users can create their own Clips, at least at this time. In other words, this is mostly just another way for Amazon to market Prime Video content to users. React accordingly.

Resident Evil: Requiem already had plenty of meat on the bone, between a decently sized campaign and plenty of post-game goodies to chew on. Now, a couple of months after launch, it's gotten some pretty fun-sounding free DLC.

Capcom released a surprise update this week that included an action-packed new mode called Leon Must Die Forever. Unlocked after you finish the main story, Leon Must Die Forever is a gauntlet of high-octane action challenges starring everyone's favorite former rookie cop, Leon S. Kennedy. Capcom's official description makes it sound pretty straightforward: kill more difficult-than-usual enemies within a time limit, fight bosses, unlock enhancements, and try not to die, despite the mode's name.

SEE ALSO: 'Resident Evil' teaser is just as gory as you'd expect

"Fight your way through areas you’ve visited previously throughout the game and defeat the final boss, all with stronger enemy variants, five increasingly difficulty ranks, and a race against the clock! Fill your enhancement gauge by defeating enemies in order to unlock Leon’s “enhancer abilities” exclusive to this game mode," Capcom's press release said.

Capcom has always had a habit of adding cool, stripped-down action-based modes to Resident Evil games that are meant to be played after finishing the story. Traditionally, they're usually called some variant of "Mercenaries," but the company went with the infinitely more fun Leon Must Die Forever for this one. If you're like me and you're still itching to roundhouse kick zombies and mutilate them with a hand axe despite having finished the story, maybe check this one out.

Late in the week, an Amazon Web Services outage affected a range of websites. In the wake of that outage, which lasted from Thursday into Friday, Amazon has revealed what happened.

In an update on the official AWS status website, Amazon revealed that the outage was caused by a "thermal event resulting in a loss of power" at a single data center in northern Virginia. In other words, some tech overheated. This prompted Amazon to shift traffic away from that data center's "Availability Zone" during the late afternoon on Thursday. By early afternoon on Friday, Amazon had managed to restore its cooling systems, which kick-started the process of getting everything back online.

SEE ALSO: Amazon Web Services outage enters second day. Here's what we know.

"Our main effort during the event mitigation strategy was to bring back our cooling systems capacity. By May 8 1:50 PM, we were able to stabilize cooling system capacity to pre-event levels, which helped us to restore the majority of the impaired EC2 instances and EBS volumes," Amazon said. "A small number of instances and EBS volumes remain impaired, and we continue to work to recover all affected remaining resources."

The outage affected some popular apps, like FanDuel and Coinbase. Users were unable to bet or trade as they normally would on those apps for a while, likely leading to some consternation on Thursday and Friday. However, the issue seems to be mostly resolved at this point, so you can probably get your NBA playoff prop bets in now, if you so desire.

Mashable 101 Fan Fave: Vote for your favorite creator today!

What's different about an art TV?

Any old smart TV can play a 10-hour-long YouTube slideshow of famous paintings. True art TVs have a few unique characteristics that separate them from the average flatscreen:

1. A flush mount: Art TVs come with a special mount that allows them to hang flat against the wall, just like a framed photo or print. From the side, you won't see any metal arms holding the TV up.

2. A matte display: The original versions of the world's famous paintings aren't displayed behind traditional shiny glass — if they were, you'd be able to see your own reflection better than the artwork. The Frame brought elite glare-free displays to the TV category to better replicate the authentic museum experience. The best art TVs use anti-glare coating so you can enjoy TV, games, and artwork even in bright sunlight.

3. Interchangeable bezels: The decorative picture frame-esque border is the other half of the "not a TV" illusion. Different art TVs use different frame colors, but all have the option to swap the traditional black outline for a white or wood-like finish.

So while the Hisense Déco TV that I tested and loved has a pretty curved white frame, it doesn't meet any of the above criteria — it's more of an artsy TV than an art TV by the books, though you may still want to consider it as an alternative to The Frame. If you're looking for a small bedroom TV that won't clash with your decor, I highly recommend the QLED Déco TV. We'll call it an honorable mention for this list.

SEE ALSO: The Dreame FP10 air purifier cleans fur off its own filter. Just as crucially, it matches my living room aesthetic. LG and TCL are dropping new art TVs soon

Competition between the best frame TVs is about to stiffen up in the second half of 2026. Preorders opened for the pricey OLED LG W6 Wallpaper TV and the full-array mini-LED LG Gallery TV with Frame at the end of April, so release dates should be coming any time now. TCL has also confirmed that a pro version of the NXTVISION TV is on the way. I'll update this guide accordingly as each model becomes available for purchase.

On Gemini 7's second lap around Earth, as the spacecraft glided over the Caribbean Sea, astronaut Frank Borman glanced outside and radioed a deadpan report: "We have a bogey at 10 o'clock high."

That moment in 1965 passed, folded into NASA's growing pile of strange-yet-seemingly-innocuous space oddities. But President Donald Trump's new UFO files suggest it never really left the government's imagination.

The release, published May 8 through a new government archive for unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UAPs, pulls together records from NASA, the FBI, and several intelligence agencies. UAP is Washington's new catch-all for UFOs and other odd events that officials can't immediately explain. The administration says more files will arrive in rolling batches on a new website over the coming weeks. Its white-on-black typeset and grainy military photos add a nostalgic X-Files flair.

Astronauts have always carried unusual weight in UFO lore. They are trained observers, steeped in checklists and telemetry, but also symbols of humanity's push into the unknown. So when astronauts reported strange lights, drifting objects, or puzzling events in orbit, those accounts tended to stick — even when later investigations pointed to equipment glitches, space junk, or natural occurrences.

The newly released records don't prove extraterrestrial life exists, and officials repeatedly caution that many cases remain unresolved simply because investigators never collected enough data to reach a firm conclusion. 

"I applaud President Trump's whole-of-government effort to bring greater transparency to the American people on unidentified anomalous phenomena," NASA administrator Jared Isaacman said in a statement. "We will remain candid about what we know to be true, what we have yet to understand, and all that remains to be discovered. Exploration and the pursuit of knowledge are core to NASA's mission as we endeavor to unlock the secrets of the universe." 

SEE ALSO: Where NASA's Dragonfly mission is going, 'We don't need roads'

NASA astronauts repeatedly reported strange sights during missions to the moon and aboard the United States' first space station, according to newly highlighted material in the files. The records include astronaut transcripts, crew debriefings, an audio recording, and annotated photographs, spanning missions from Gemini 7 in 1965 through Skylab in the 1970s.  

Gemini 7 astronauts reported a 'bogey' in orbit

During the Gemini 7 mission in 1965, astronaut Frank Borman radioed mission control to report what he called a "bogey," a military term for an unidentified aircraft. Borman and astronaut Jim Lovell also described a cloud of particles drifting near their spacecraft. Lovell later described a bright object that he saw against the darkness of space. Handwritten notes attached to the transcript labeled the event a "UFO sighting by Borman."  

Apollo 11 crew spotted lights on the way to the moon

Apollo 11 astronauts described several unusual observations during the first human moon landing mission in 1969. 

Buzz Aldrin told debriefers the crew saw a large object while en route to the moon and examined it with a monocular. The astronauts speculated it may have been part of the Saturn V rocket. Aldrin also described repeated flashes of light inside the spacecraft cabin. He later reported seeing a bright light the crew tentatively identified as a laser during their return to Earth.  

An area of interest above the lunar horizon is highlighted in this view from the 1969 landing site of the Apollo 12 mission. Credit: NASA / Department of Defense Apollo 12 astronauts watched drifting glowing particles

Apollo 12 astronauts reported multiple unexplained sightings during their 1969 mission. 

Alan Bean described seeing particles and flashes of light "sailing off in space" while using the spacecraft's optical telescope. Commander Pete Conrad later described illuminated debris floating outside the lunar module before the light source suddenly disappeared. 

The archive also includes several Apollo 12 photographs marked with highlighted "areas of interest" above the lunar horizon.  

A smattering of five areas of interest are highlighted in this image taken from the Apollo 12 landing site on the moon. Credit: NASA / Department of Defense Apollo 17 crew described mysterious objects

Back in 1972, Apollo 17 astronauts reported some of the most detailed observations in the archive. 

Ronald Evans described bright particles tumbling near the spacecraft, while Harrison Schmitt compared the scene to "the Fourth of July." Commander Eugene Cernan later reported intense flashing lights that appeared bright enough to resemble a train headlight. Schmitt also reported seeing a flash on the lunar surface near Grimaldi crater. 

Another Apollo 17 image in the archive shows three unexplained dots in a triangular formation. Government analysts have reopened the case and obtained the original film for further study, according to the file.  

Skylab crews repeatedly saw flashes

Astronauts aboard Skylab, America's first space station, documented unexplained sightings in 1973 and 1974.

One crew saw frequent light flashes while trying to sleep. Another tracked a bright reddish object for several minutes, eventually concluding it moved in an orbit similar to Skylab's. A later crew reported flashing lights outside the station moving independently of the spacecraft, though astronauts suspected the objects may have been debris or satellites. 

SAVE $20: As of May 9, the Echo Show 5 is on sale for $69.99 at Amazon. That's a 22% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Echo Show 5 $69.99 at Amazon
$89.99 Save $20   Get Deal

Smart home hubs can make your life a whole lot easier. Nowadays, robot vacuums and mowers, voice activated speakers, and so much more are smart. And a great way to manage all these devices is with a dedicated hub, like the Echo Show 5. And this model is on sale this weekend. As of May 9, this Amazon smart home hub is down from $89.99 to $69.99.

The Echo Show 5 is a smart display with a 5.5-inch screen that is perfect for displaying information like weather reports, news, and playlists. It supports music streaming from top providers like Amazon Music, Spotify, as well as video options from Prime Video.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

It even includes a built-in 2 MP camera, so you can use it for video calls or home monitoring. When not in use, you can change the display to show rotating photo slideshows, and Prime members also receive unlimited cloud photo storage.

And if sustainability is on your mind when purchasing, the fabric on this device is made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester yarn, the aluminium uses 100% recycled aluminium, and the packaging is fully recyclable.

Find this Echo Show deal at Amazon now. It's a limited-time deal, so don't miss out.

TL;DR: This refurbished 2020 Apple MacBook Pro is price-dropped to $429.97 (reg. $1999), featuring 16GB RAM and a 1TB SSD for work, multitasking, and daily use.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Pro 2020 (Refurbished) $399.99
$1,580 Save $1,180.01   Get Deal

If you’ve been comparing MacBooks, you know just how fast the price rises as you opt for higher storage tiers and other vital features. Right now, you can get a refurbished Apple MacBook Pro (2020) for $429.97 (reg. $1999), making it an appealing option for anyone who needs extra space without putting a huge dent in their bank account. Get it on sale for 78% off until May 10 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

This model comes with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD — a combination that’s well-suited for multitasking, larger files, and more demanding workflows. Whether you’re working on multiple tabs, editing media, or managing larger projects, the added storage helps reduce the need for constant file management.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

Regarding performance capabilities, it’s powered by a 2GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 processor with Turbo Boost up to 3.8GHz, which keeps everyday tasks running smoothly. The 13.3-inch Retina display with True Tone also makes a difference if you spend long hours on your screen, adjusting brightness and color to your environment.

You’ll find the familiar MacBook Pro perks: a tactile Magic Keyboard, intuitive Touch Bar controls, and Touch ID for quick, secure logins. With up to 10 hours of battery life and four Thunderbolt 3 ports, this laptop is ready for a full day’s work … no scrambling for adapters or outlets required.

As a Grade A refurbished model, this MacBook Pro is expected to arrive in near-mint condition, with minimal signs of wear — a big part of why the price is so compelling.

This practical deal delivers generous storage without the high cost, making it a standout among current MacBook offers. Get this Apple MacBook Pro (2020) today, for $429.97 through May 10 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Upgrade your PC for just $29.97 (reg. $219.99) with this Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows lifetime license, on sale through May 18 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows: Lifetime License $29.97
$219.99 Save $190.02   Get Deal

Want to get a deal on something you’ll use every single day? This lifetime license to Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows gives your PC eight new tools to improve your workflow, and right now, you can snag them all for just $29.97 until May 18.

Whether you’ve been paying for Microsoft Office apps or trying to go without them, this lifetime license lets you pay once and enjoy them forever. There’s no cloud connectivity required — just download the apps to your device and work offline as needed.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

Curious what this license includes? You’ll have all the old classics, like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, which can help you create documents, build spreadsheets, design presentations, and manage emails.

You’ll also get newer favorites, too. Stay connected with friends, family, and coworkers on Teams, and manage large databases with Access. OneNote upgrades how you take notes, and Publisher rounds out the suite by helping you create professional documents.

This edition may hail from 2021, but these apps have all been redesigned. They also include a ribbon-based user interface that provides easy access to features, tools, and customizations.

Before purchasing, make sure your device is running Windows 10 or 11 to be compatible.

Score major savings this month with this Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows lifetime license for just $29.97 (reg. $219.99) now through May 18 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Get a lifetime license to Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac or PC for just $89.97 (reg. $249.99) now through May 17.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac or PC Lifetime License $89.97
$249.99 Save $160.02   Get Deal

There aren’t many things you can pay for once and enjoy for life, but this lifetime license to Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business for Mac or PC is one of them. This suite of five essential apps gives you tools to tackle both personal and professional tasks, and right now you can get them all for only $89.97 until May 17.

If you’re tired of paying month after month for your go-to apps, you’ll appreciate this Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business deal. It’s a lifetime license, so you pay once and download the apps right to your device for permanent access.

Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up!

This edition works on both Macs and PCs, so no matter your device, you can take advantage of these five Microsoft staples. You’ll get access to Word for creating documents, Excel for building spreadsheets, and Outlook for managing email.

PowerPoint is included so you can create presentations, and OneNote will upgrade the way you take notes.

This edition hails from 2024, but don’t worry. These apps feature AI enhancements that provide text, formatting, and design suggestions as you go. You can also let AI summarize text, translate content, and extract key info from your documents for you.

If you’re working in Excel, let AI-powered tools analyze your data, identify trends, and improve your charts and graphics. Need to get things done in Word? There’s also a new Focus Mode available so you can concentrate on your work and get more done.

Upgrade your computer with a lifetime license to Microsoft Office 2024 Home & Business for Mac or PC for just $89.97 now.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The world will stop this summer for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

16 cities across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada will welcome the best international sides from around the world as they compete for arguably the biggest prize in sport. Huge names like Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Lamine Yamal are likely to steal the spotlight, but new stars always shine brightly in this prestigious competition.

If you're interested in watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

What is the FIFA World Cup?

The World Cup is an international football competition between senior men's national teams. The 2026 World Cup has been expanded to 48 teams, split into 12 groups of four teams. The top two teams in each group and the eight best third-placed teams progress to the knockouts rounds.

The defending champions are Argentina. They won their third title at the 2022 World Cup after defeating France in the final.

When is the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

The 2026 World Cup is the 23rd edition of this famous competition. This year's tournament takes place from June 11 to July 19 in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.

How to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free

A number of free streaming platforms are offering coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup:

• Australia — SBS

• Austria — ORF and ServusTV

• Belgium — RTBF and VRT

• France — M6

• Germany — ARD and ZDF

• Ireland — RTÉ

• Italy — RAI

• Norway — NRK

• Netherlands — NOS

• Spain — RTVE

• UK — BBC iPlayer and ITVX (recommended)

These streaming services are geo-restricted, but anyone can access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another location, meaning you can live stream the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream the 2026 FIFA World Cup 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

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

4. Visit BBC iPlayer or ITVX (recommended)

5. Watch 2026 FIFA World Cup for free from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream this tournament before recovering your investment.

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

What is the best VPN for the FIFA World Cup?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for accessing live sport on free streaming platforms, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

In the 21st century, flirting is no longer just something you do at a bar or club after a few drinks to build up your confidence. In fact, more often than not, it's a text- or photo-based exchange conducted between smartphones, with fingers doing the flirting that tongues used to manage. Getting exact data on how many people are digitizing their flirtations isn't easy, but for one example, consider the DirtySnapchat subreddit: it boasts over one million members and nearly 130,000 weekly visitors.

Of course, as sexting became more popular, we gained exponentially more ways to engage in it, from naughty websites to flirty dating apps to clever in-between options, where a suggestive text message or a racy photo are all part of the fun. It's also becoming increasingly common for services to offer a hybrid feature set, so that what begins as a fun text-based conversation and escalates to photo exchanges might finish off with a live video chat. 

Today we're comparing two of the most popular options for sexting: AdultFriendFinder and Snapchat. Both platforms offer a bevy of fun features to help you get your flirt on through texts, photos and videos, and both have some clever, built-in features to help you do it safely and discreetly.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdultFriendFinder AdultFriendFinder   Learn More Opens in a new window Credit: Snapchat Snapchat   Learn More The benefits of AdultFriendFinder for sextingFinding a partner

The big benefit of AdultFriendFinder is that it has a built-in community of like-minded people all looking for text-based flirtation. Unlike with Snapchat, which is a much more general, multi-purpose platform, AFF users have signed up with the express intent of having some "adult" fun, and their profiles usually reflect this, with wild photos and very explicit lists of kinks, turn-ons and interests. 

In addition to the individual profiles, AFF also hosts communities and groups, often based around specific kinks or a love of erotic storytelling, and these public-facing communities are easy to find and engage with. 

If your sexting journey is a solo one to start off, AFF will help you find a partner in no time, whereas finding a like-minded chat partner through Snapchat alone is no easy task. 

Identity verification

A major strength of AdultFriendFinder is that it offers a robust identity verification service called ConfirmID, and while it isn't mandatory, you can opt not to talk to anyone who hasn't undergone the process. To get verified, users have to offer both a scan of a piece of government-issued identification and agree to have their face scanned via webcam to confirm that the person doing the scan is the same person featured in the ID document. 

Once you're verified, a blue checkmark will appear on your profile photo, ensuring others know you're verified. If you want to only talk to other verified users, stick to profiles that feature that bleu checkmark and you're golden.

SEE ALSO: Is Adult Friend Finder safe to use? What a cybersecurity expert says.

On Snapchat, by contrast, verification is as simple as confirming that the email associated with the account really belongs to you, which might be an effective deterrent against bots but doesn't do anything against catfishing scams. 

Sex Academy

What if you're new to sexting and want to pick up some tips or learn some of the lingo before you dive in? An often-overlooked aspect of the AdultFriendFinder universe is what is known as their "sex academy," the constellation of resources, including learning materials and erotic stories, that can help you acquaint yourself with the ins and outs of sexting before you ever speak to a real partner. 

This is an unbelievably useful tool because, over time, sexters evolved their own shorthand language — not to mention suggestive emoji use! — to get their points across faster and not break the sexual tension with long, delayed texting. 

The benefits of Snapchat for sextingFree to use

Snapchat is free to download and free to use, and although there is a premium subscription option (Snapchat+), it's not really necessary or even particularly beneficial when it comes to sexting. Contrast this with AdultFriendFinder, which restricts one-on-one conversations to paying members, and you can easily see why Snapchat gets the edge here. 

Because it's free to use, it's also much more widely adopted than AFF, which means it's extremely common for people to exchange their Snapchat IDs, or even for singles to include their Snapchat IDs in their dating profiles.

Disappearing messages

Another huge benefit of Snapchat is that, by design, all messages sent through the service are time-restricted. Everything you write or send will eventually disappear, not only from the chat history but from Snapchat's servers.

But some caveats do need to be mentioned here:

• “Disappearing” does not mean “never stored.”

• Anything sent digitally can potentially persist through screenshots, screen recording, device backups, or hacked accounts.

• Even if Snapchat deletes its copy, the recipient may still have one.

So from a privacy perspective, the safest assumption is: if you send a nude on any platform, there is always some possibility it could continue to exist somewhere beyond your control.

SEE ALSO: A history of nudes, from sculptures to Snapchat

That means if you're shy, or concerned about your privacy, or just feel more comfortable being naughty when you have the peace of mind of knowing there won't be a (digital) paper trail, Snapchat is probably the most secure option out there. 

That having been said, Snapchat's official Community Guidelines take a strong stand against "sharing, promoting, or distributing sexually explicit content and conduct," so while such behaviors are actively encouraged on AdultFriendFinder, they are actively discouraged on Snapchat. The truth, though, is that, in practice, private consensual exchanges between adults are extremely common on the app and are generally not proactively policed unless:

• Someone reports it.

• AI moderation flags it.

• It appears exploitative/commercial.

• It involves minors/non-consensual content.

Screenshot protection

One of the perils of sexting, especially if you're doing it with strangers or people you've only recently met, is that exchanging nude photos or videos can be risky — bad actors can save or share your photos without your consent, or even use them to blackmail you, a practice known as "sextortion."

But if you're concerned about someone secretly screenshotting or even using a screen recording tool to record your naughty sessions, Snapchat offers a robust notification software that will alert you right away if someone takes a screenshot or starts a screen recording, and it's comprehensive enough to even pick up on many third-party tools that can do these things. 

It isn't perfect, so you do still need to exercise caution when you're being frisky with people you don't fully know or trust. At a minimum, you should verify that the person you're chatting with is who they claim to be, preferably over a video call, and you should never share sexually explicit content with someone you don't know and trust, especially if those images or videos can be used to identify you.

The bottom line? Both AFF and Snapchat offer fun platforms for engaging in some sexy texting, but the former is probably a more attractive option if you don't already have a sexting partner and the latter is a fantastic platform for getting more intimate with someone you already know.

Slippers, whiskies, and socks. Sure, these might sound like classic man gifts, but they're far from unique. The special guys in your life deserve something with a little more thought. We all know of course that it isn't that simple. Finding unique gifts for men can be a head-scratching exercise — particularly when you're catering for more eclectic, off-the-beaten-path tastes.

To find the perfect present for these types of guys — whether you're buying for your dad, brother, best friend, boyfriend , or husband — you’ll need to do some creative thinking. The trick is to get something they would haven't even thought of buying themselves. These are our picks for the most unique and interesting gift ideas for your favorite man — for Father's Day, birthday gifts, Valentine's Day, Christmas anniversaries, or just to say, "Thanks, my guy."

TL;DR: Watch the 2026 French Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The world of tennis is firmly focused on clay courts right now. Top players have already sharpened up in the Barcelona Open and Madrid Open, and now it's the turn of the main event: Roland-Garros.

Two-time champion Carlos Alcaraz will not defend his title, but this year's tournament is not short of star names. Expect the likes of Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, Aryna Sabalenka, and Iga Świątek to be battling it out in the latter stages. It's always a special tournament, and we're expecting top-level competition from the best of the best in this edition.

If you're interested in watching the 2026 French Open from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

What is the French Open?

The French Open, also known as Roland-Garros, is a major tennis tournament held over two weeks at the Stade Roland Garros in Paris, France. It's the only Grand Slam tournament held on a clay surface, and is the second of the four annual Grand Slam tournaments.

The current singles champions are Carlos Alcaraz and Coco Gauff.

When is the 2026 French Open?

The 2026 French Open is the 131th edition of the competition. This year's event takes place from May 18 to June 7.

How to watch the 2026 French Open for free

The 2026 French Open is available to live stream for free on 9Now.

9Now is geo-restricted to Australia, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Australia, meaning you can stream the 2026 French Open for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream the 2026 French Open 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 Australia

4. Connect to 9Now

5. Watch the 2026 French Open for free from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer pretty generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Roland-Garros without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream the 2026 French Open before recovering your investment.

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

What is the best VPN for the French Open?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for streaming live sport on free platforms, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2026 French Open for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream the UFC on Paramount+. Access these live streams for free with a 30-day trial for Walmart+.

Some of the biggest names in sport became famous with the UFC. We're talking about the likes of Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Brock Lesnar, and Georges St-Pierre. All of these household names earned their stripes in the Octagon, and now the next wave of UFC superstars are primed and ready to take things to the next level.

And millions of fans from around the world will be watching every moment. Fortunately for this dedicated group of followers, it has never been easier to watch the biggest fight nights without spending anything.

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

What is the UFC?

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is an American mixed martial arts promotion company based in Las Vegas, Nevada. The UFC has over 578 fighters contracted that fight across 11 weight divisions. The organization produces events worldwide — the UFC has held over 750 events going into 2026.

How to watch the UFC for free

The UFC is available to live stream on Paramount+. New subscribers can get Paramount+ for $8.99 per month with access to all UFC events.

Alternatively, you can sign up for a 30-day trial for Walmart+ to gain access to Paramount+ for free. Paramount+ is included as a perk of Walmart+, so with a free trial of Walmart+, you can live stream the UFC without spending anything. It's a sneaky trick, but it works.

If you're outside the U.S. for the next fight, you might need to use a VPN to unblock the UFC on Paramount+. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., allowing you to unblock live streams of the UFC from anywhere in the world.

Live stream the UFC from anywhere in the world by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to 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 U.S.

4. Visit Paramount+

5. Watch the UFC from anywhere in the world

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the next fight before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the UFC?

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

• Servers in 105 countries

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Watch the UFC from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The best wireless earbuds range anywhere from $10 to $1,000, especially if you're going for professional-grade studio earphones. And if you care about active noise cancellation, you can easily spend $300 — that's the price of peace and quiet. You can also get hyperspecialized models like sleep earbuds, bone-conduction earbuds for working out, and open earbuds for transparency.

SEE ALSO: I replaced my $249 AirPods Pro with $19 wired EarPods

In 2026, our top picks for earbuds are the Sony WF-1000XM6, Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd gen), and Panasonic Technics AZ100s, which provide outstanding sound quality and ANC. But keep in mind that these models will run you $299 to $329. While we stand by the value of everything on this list, we know that spending over $300 on a pair of earbuds is a lot to stomach. That's why we've also included more budget-friendly wireless earbuds under $100 that still deliver excellent performance.

Ready to start shopping now? Here are our favorite wireless and noise-cancelling earbuds as of May 2026.

Types of earbuds

There are two types of earbuds: wireless and wired. While those descriptors are self-explanatory, let's get into the specifics of both.

Wireless

Wireless earbuds connect to devices via Bluetooth for cordless usage. These earbuds range from $20 budget models to high-end models with active noise cancellation. While they don't require a wire to connect to a device, some wireless earbuds still have a wire that might go around the back of the neck to connect the buds.

While earbuds traditionally don't provide the passive noise cancellation of over-the-ear headphones, wireless models often feature ANC, which electronically blocks out background noise. With wireless headphones, you need to consider the battery life. Most models should have an eight-hour or more battery life before they need to be recharged.

Wired

Wired earbuds are the original model: two buds connected by a wire to your audio source. While they once felt high tech, they're pretty basic now. Wired earbuds with active noise cancellation are basically non-existent, and you won't find any on our list.

The biggest positive to wired headphones is that they don't need to be charged. They're a great backup option to keep in your bag in case your usual wireless headphones or earbuds run out of charge.

New additions to this guide

After extensive testing, Mashable Lead Shopping Reporter Bethany Allard rounded up the best sleep earbuds. You can read her full guide, but as of February 2026, we've added the Anker Soundcore Sleep A30 Special to this guide, which Allard says are the best sleep earbuds for most people. Also in February 2026, we added the Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds as our top pick for the best overall earbud, and removed the previous generation, the WF-1000XM5, as the best Sony earbud.

As of August 2025, we also updated the best earbuds for working out to the Powerbeats Pro 2 and added the Shokz OpenDots One as the best open earbuds.

What are the best wireless Bluetooth earbuds?

If you're just looking for a pair of everyday wireless earbuds, all but one of the models in this guide will check that box. (We formerly included the Marshall Mode earbuds for folks who preferred a wired option, but have since removed them from our guide as the version we tested is difficult to find in stock these days.)

If you're looking for the highest quality wireless earbuds, you can't go wrong with the Sony WF-1000XM6, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, Apple AirPods Pro 3, and Panasonic Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds, our most recent recommendation in 2026. Both of these wireless earbuds feature elite noise-cancellation, stellar sound, long battery life, and a comfortable fit for extended wear.

Still, this guide includes several other earbuds we stand behind. Apple users may prefer the AirPods Pro, while shoppers on a budget may prefer buds from Marshall or Anker Soundcore. If you need help picking the perfect pair, read on.

Based on my extensive hands-on testing and expert input, I’ve picked the best sexting apps to keep your flirtiest, dirtiest chats truly private — whether you're messaging a partner, a hookup, or a verified creator.

Because sometimes the anticipation of a hookup is even hotter than the main event. In my experience, sexting is the ultimate form of digital foreplay. It’s the glue that keeps long-distance relationships from falling apart, the spark that stops long-term couples from feeling like roommates, and — for all you singles out there — the safest way to test sexual chemistry before you ever meet up in person.

If it feels like everyone is sending spicy texts these days, you're not wrong. Some studies show that up to 88 percent of American adults have engaged in sexting at some point in their lives. For many, it's become an essential means of connection, and research shows that sharing intimate pictures can evoke, demonstrate, and reinforce trust.

You've heard of safe sex. But what about safe sexting?

Remember: You can't (and shouldn't!) trust your most intimate moments to just any app. As fun as the buildup is, the sad truth is that no one ever knows for sure if their private photos will stay private once they hit send on standard messaging platforms. Sliding into the DMs on a standard social media app might feel like spontaneous fun, but in 2026, your digital footprint is forever. Plus, with Meta cracking down hard this April (wiping out Instagram accounts and posts just for hinting at sexual expression), it's obvious that mainstream platforms are becoming hostile territory for your spicy chats. If you're going to share that side of yourself, you need to know it stays between you and the recipient.

As one of Mashable's dating app experts, I've spent the last three years testing dozens of platforms to find the best and most discreet apps for the job. My highest priority is always user safety. I also spoke with security expert Gary Orenstein with Bitwarden, who stressed that for sharing intimate content, "privacy features cannot be optional — they’re essential." He recommends looking for apps with three key features: end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and screenshot detection.

After all, if you believe in safe sex, you should practice safe sexting, too. So, for all your NSFW messaging needs, these are the sexting apps I trust to get the job done without compromising your privacy.

SEE ALSO: A beginner's guide to sexting Recent updates to this guide:

• Confide: I’ve moved this back to the #1 spot. Its privacy tools (like screenshot-proofing) just give it the edge over everything else right now.

• Lovense Remote: I added this as the winner for "Group Sexting." It's also the best way for couples (and polyamorous folks) to sync Bluetooth toys for long-distance play.

• FetLife: Added as "Best for Kink." It’s less of a standard app and more of a social network, but it remains the go-to place for finding niche communities.

What about other sexting sites?

You've probably seen other "best of" lists recommending apps I've left off. That's intentional. My goal is to recommend platforms where you can make connections, not just burn cash.

Here's why a few popular names didn't make the cut:

• A note on "paid operator" sites: Many sites marketed for sexting (like InstaBang, Arousr, and SextLocal) don't primarily connect you with other real users. Instead, they often use "chat operators" to keep you talking and paying. While there's nothing wrong with a paid fantasy, I don't consider that mutual sexting. My list focuses on apps for real, user-to-user interaction (with the exception of SextPanther, which connects you with verified adult performers).

• Couple's apps: You also won't find apps like Between on this list. While it's a private messenger for couples, it lacks the specific features that make sexting fun. If you want to level up your digital intimacy, my picks (like We-Vibe and Lovense) are much more interactive.