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How to watch Rams vs. Panthers in the NFL online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Rams vs. Panthers for free on TVNZ+. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
It's been an exciting and somewhat unexpected NFL season, with big names such as the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens missing out on the playoffs. If there was ever a year in which anything could happen in the postseason, this is it — and it all kicks off with the aptly named Wild Card Weekend, the first of four weekends of playoffs action.
First up are the Los Angeles Rams and Carolina Panthers. The Panthers are the NFC South winners, with a record of 8-9. The Rams, meanwhile, enter the playoffs thanks to a Wild Card berth though they actually scored a better overall record of 12-5 in NFC West.
The Panthers triumphed when they met the Rams back in Week 13, but Carolina are also coming off back-to-back losses, which means the momentum may be with Los Angeles, who are tipped as favorites following a decisive win against Arizona. It's all to play for as both franchises look to open the postseason with a statement win and advance to the Divisional Round.
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!If you want to watch Rams vs. Panthers in the NFL playoffs for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.
When is Rams vs. Panthers?Los Angeles Rams vs. Carolina Panther takes place at 4.30 p.m. ET on Jan. 10. This fixture will be played at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina.
How to watch Rams vs. Panthers for freeLos Angeles Rams vs. Carolina Panthers in the NFL is available to live stream for free on TVNZ+.
TVNZ+ is geo-restricted to New Zealand, but you can access this free streaming platform from anywhere by using a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in New Zealand, allowing you to unblock TVNZ+ from anywhere in the world.Access free live streams of the NFL by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with free coverage of the NFL
Register with TVNZ+
Watch the NFL for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming do require a subscription, but the leading VPN services also offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. You can leverage these deals to get access to live streams of the NFL without committing any cash in the long run. This is obviously a short-term fix, but it will give you time to watch Rams vs. Panthers and other NFL fixtures before you reclaim any upfront investment.
What is the best VPN for the NFL?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream the NFL, 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 eight simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 — a saving of 49% — which includes a bonus three months usage at no extra cost. This plan also includes a year of unlimited cloud backup and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (also with a money-back guarantee).
Live stream the NFL for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
How to watch Tottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Tottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa in the FA Cup for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
Times are tough for Spurs right now. A last-minute defeat against Bournemouth has piled on the pressure for manager Thomas Frank. They are languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League standings, so the FA Cup might provide a welcome break. Of course, they could easily get dumped out of the competition by Aston Villa. At that point, some fans might argue that a significant change is needed.
If you want to watch Tottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa in the FA Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Tottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa?Tottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa in the FA Cup kicks off at 5:45 p.m. GMT on Jan. 10. This fixture takes place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
How to watch Tottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa for freeTottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa in the FA Cup is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock BBC iPlayer from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Tottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit BBC iPlayer
Live stream Tottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Tottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to live stream select fixtures from the FA Cup before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for BBC iPlayer?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including the UK
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to 10 simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).
Live stream Tottenham Hotspur vs. Aston Villa in the FA Cup for free with ExpressVPN.
Protect your family from ads, trackers, and online threats with a lifetime plan for $16
TL;DR: Hurry and grab a lifetime subscription to the AdGuard Family Plan for just $15.97 with code FAMPLAN (reg. $169.99) through 11:59 p.m. PT on Jan. 11 and protect 9 devices from ads, trackers, and online threats.
Opens in a new window Credit: AdGuard AdGuard Family Plan: Lifetime Subscription $15.97$169.99 Save $154.02 Get Deal
Tired of dodging pop-ups, dealing with slow-loading websites, and feeling like your every move online might be tracked? You’re not alone. The internet should be a safe, smooth, and private space. The AdGuard Family Plan can help you smooth things out, digitally speaking.
For just $15.97 with promo code FAMPLAN, you’ll get lifetime protection for up to nine devices. Whether it’s your phone, tablet, or laptop, AdGuard blocks intrusive ads, prevents trackers from snooping on your data, and shields your family from possible malicious websites.
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!Ads aren’t just annoying; they slow down your browsing, eat up your data, and sometimes even carry malware. And if you’ve got kids online, you want to make sure they’re safe from inappropriate content. The AdGuard Family Plan does all that and more. With built-in parental controls, you can filter out harmful sites and ensure your family’s online experience is both secure and enjoyable.
With up to 9 devices covered, the AdGuard Family Plan is ideal for households where everyone’s connected. And because it’s a one-time payment for lifetime access, you’ll never have to worry about recurring fees or annoying subscription renewals.
So, whether you’re protecting your own devices or your whole family’s, AdGuard makes it easy to have a more peaceful online experience. Say goodbye to annoying ads and hello to a safer, faster internet.
Don’t miss the opportunity to save on a lifetime of AdGuard Family Plan protection while it’s just $15.97 (reg. $169.99) with code FAMPLAN through Jan. 11 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
How to watch the 2026 World Cross Country Championships online for free
TL;DR: Live stream the 2026 World Cross Country Championships for free on World Athletics. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
We know that a lot of people around the world will be stepping outside to pound the pavement this month. January is a huge month for running. Take a look outside. There's a lot of activity on the streets right now.
If you're in need of any inspiration, there's an event taking place in Tallahassee that should provide the push you need. The World Cross Country Championships is bringing together some of the best runners in the world to compete at Apalachee Regional Park on a course that features sand, water, and mud. It's going to be a lot of fun to watch. To run? Not so much.
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!If you want to watch the 2026 World Cross Country Championships for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
What is the World Cross Country Championships?The World Cross Country Championships is an athletics meeting organized by World Athletics. It's the most important competition in international cross country running.
When is the 2026 World Cross Country Championships?The 2026 World Cross Country Championships is the 46th edition of the event. This year's event will take place on Jan. 10 at the Apalachee Regional Park in Tallahassee, Florida, United States.
Here's the full schedule of the 2026 World Cross Country Championships:
Mixed Relay — 9:45 a.m. ET on Jan. 10
U20 Women — 10:20 a.m. ET on Jan. 10
U20 Men — 10:55 a.m. ET on Jan. 10
Senior Women — 11:35 a.m. ET on Jan. 10
Senior Men — 12:20 p.m. ET on Jan. 10
The good news is that fans can follow all the action without spending anything.
How to watch the 2026 World Cross Country Championships for freeThe 2026 World Cross Country Championships is available to live stream for free on World Athletics.
This free live stream is available in a number of territories. If it's not available in your location, you can access this free live stream with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another location, meaning you can unblock World Athletics from anywhere in the world.
Access free live streams of the 2026 World Cross Country Championships by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with access
Visit World Athletics
Watch the 2026 World Cross Country Championships for free from anywhere in the world
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 2026 World Cross Country Championships before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for World Athletics?ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on World Athletics, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including Australia
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 $78.18 and includes an extra four months for free — 78% 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 World Cross Country Championships for free with ExpressVPN.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra: Oversized and underpowered
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra launched in September 2025, ushering in the next generation of the brand's tablets. The S11 Ultra is a beefy model, one of the largest tablets we've had in our hands. With a 14.6-inch screen, it dwarfs the tablets we're used to, even Apple's 13-inch models.
With its large size, we expected a lot from this device and ultimately wondered if it lives up to the performance and power of elite tablets like Apple's iPad Pro.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is a mixed bag, offering stellar battery life but with more to be desired in terms of performance. Here's everything you need to know about the device and if it's worth its $1,319.99 price.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra Specs and Price Let's take a closer look at the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra. Credit: Samantha Mangino / MashableThe Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is a pricey model at $1,319.99. In contrast, the more affordable Galaxy Tab S11 with an 11-inch display is available for $979.99.
Memory: 12GB
Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
Processor: Octa-Core
Cameras: 13.0 MP + 8.0 MP rear camera, 12.0 MP front camera, and UHD 4K video recording.
Audio: Quad speakers
Ports: One USB-C
Display: Dynamic AMOLED 2X
Since tablets are all screen, it's essential that a device has displays that are actually impressive. The Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra's 14.6-inch display offers ample space for entertainment or work needs. Its resolution is 2960 x 1848, powered by Dynamic AMOLED.
While watching shows on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra, the content looks just as good on the tablet as it does on my Samsung OLED 4K TV, just in a smaller format.
Additionally, it maximizes its surface area. With split-screen capabilities, you can open and view multiple apps at once. For work productivity, this means being able to view documents and work on emails simultaneously. Alternatively, a more enjoyable use is to catch up on shows while playing your favorite mobile games.
It's got some power, but not nearly enough as we wantFor its size, I expected the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra to be a powerful unit, rivaling the likes of Apple's iPad Pro. It certainly surprised us, but maybe not in the way we hoped. Don't get it wrong, this is still a robust model. It handled streaming and internet browsing like a pro. Plus, it didn't falter when running multiple applications simultaneously.
Using the tablet's multi-window function, I watched The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City on the Peacock app while playing Subway Surfers. The show streamed in 4K while Subway Surfers ran without a glitch.
But when it comes to actual numbers, we look to the Geekbench 6 test. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra has a multi-core score of 8,797, which is far superior to that of a Chromebook, but can't compare to higher-end laptops. In fact, it can't really compare to Apple's tablets. The iPad Pro scores over 16,000 on its multi-core score, while the iPad Air scores 10,498, meaning the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra doesn't quite measure up. That being said, it does score higher than the basic iPad.
For its price tag, at $1,319.99, it should perform better. You can find a 13-inch iPad with the same specs and a better Geekbench 6 multi-core score for $1,099.
Impressive battery life that goes for daysThe standout feature on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is one you can't see. We conducted Mashable's standard battery life test, looping the 1080p version of "Tears of Steel," a short open-source Blender movie, at 50 percent brightness and 50 percent volume until the tablet ran out. The results astounded us, the battery lasting for 16 hours and 6 minutes, which is about how long we hope the very best laptops run for.
It comes with a nice, lightweight stylus The lightweight S Pen is a dream to write with, emulating the feel of an actual pencil. Credit: Samantha Mangino / MashableIn a world where Apple forces you to buy a stylus to accompany its tablets, Samsung includes a stylus with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra. The S pen has a hexagonal shape, emulating the feel of a classic pencil. It moves easily, and while I'm not an artist, I did love using it to write. It feels practically weightless in your hand, so you can move quickly across the page. It magnetically clings to the tablet, although I wouldn't say it has a particularly strong hold, as it can be easily knocked off.
An oversized screen for professionals, but awkward for everyone elseThe biggest drawback of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is that it's too large. Compared to other tablets, this 14.6-inch model is a behemoth, wider than even my MacBook Pro. Its size makes it awkward to hold, and it would be best used with the keyboard cover, especially if you're planning on working.
For the average user, having that much space is overkill and potentially a hindrance. If you're taking the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra on a plane, it will occupy most of the space on the tray table. On the other hand, for artists, a larger screen means more space to design and illustrate.
SEE ALSO: I'm no professional artist, but the Wacom One 14 makes me feel like one Is the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra worth it? It may not look like it, but the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is a robust tablet — but it might be too big. Credit: Samantha Mangino / MashableThe Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra isn't for everyone. If you're a professional or creative individual looking for an Android tablet with ample power, then this is a worthwhile investment. I think it's priced a little too high compared to other tablets with similar specs, but the included S Pen makes it a better value.
However, if you're open to tablets of all operating systems, I think you have better options. For a large tablet with similar specs, Apple's 13-inch iPad Air with M3 chip offers better performance at a lower price of $1,099. If you're looking for a compact, travel-friendly Android tablet, consider the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 instead.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra $1,029.99 at AmazonShop Now at Amazon Shop Now at Best Buy
How to watch Egypt vs. Ivory Coast online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Egypt vs. Ivory Coast in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations for free on Channel 4. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi finals beckon for Egypt and Ivory Coast. The final quarter final is a mouthwatering prospect, with stars like Mohamed Salah and Amad Diallo set to battle it out. Egypt are the most successful team in the history of this competition, but Ivory Coast are the defending champions.
If you want to watch Egypt vs. Ivory Coast in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Egypt vs. Ivory Coast?Egypt vs. Ivory Coast in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off at 2 p.m. ET on Jan. 10. This fixture takes place at the Adrar Stadium.
How to watch Egypt vs. Ivory Coast for freeEgypt vs. Ivory Coast in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is available to live stream for free on Channel 4.
Channel 4 is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock Channel 4 to stream AFCON for free from anywhere in the world.
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!Live stream Egypt vs. Ivory Coast for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit Channel 4
Watch Egypt vs. Ivory Coast for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of AFCON without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Egypt vs. Ivory Coast (plus more 2025 Africa Cup of Nations fixtures) before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for Channel 4?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Channel 4, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including the UK
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to 10 simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $78.18 and includes an extra four months for free — 78% 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 Egypt vs. Ivory Coast in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations for free with ExpressVPN.
Hurdle hints and answers for January 10, 2026
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.
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 hintA small boat.
SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answerSKIFF
Hurdle Word 2 hintTo make into small pieces.
SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for January 10, 2026 Hurdle Word 2 AnswerGRATE
Hurdle Word 3 hintA letter in the Greek alphabet.
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for January 10 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 10, 2026 Hurdle Word 3 answerSIGMA
Hurdle Word 4 hintA trinket.
SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for January 10 Hurdle Word 4 answerCURIO
Final Hurdle hintThey're always on the go.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answerNOMAD
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
How to watch Algeria vs. Nigeria online for free
TL;DR: Live stream Algeria vs. Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations for free on Channel 4. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is approaching its dramatic conclusion. Some spots in the semi-final stage are already secured, but Nigeria and Algeria are still to play. The hotly-anticipated matchup features a number of big names including Lookman and Osimhen, but can the star power fire Nigeria into the last four?
If you want to watch Algeria vs. Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is Algeria vs. Nigeria?Algeria vs. Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off at 11 a.m. ET on Jan. 10. This fixture takes place at the Marrakech Stadium.
How to watch Algeria vs. Nigeria for freeAlgeria vs. Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is available to live stream for free on Channel 4.
Channel 4 is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock Channel 4 to stream AFCON for free from anywhere in the world.
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!Live stream Algeria vs. Nigeria for free by following these simple steps:
Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
Visit Channel 4
Watch Algeria vs. Nigeria for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can access free live streams of AFCON without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream Algeria vs. Nigeria (plus more 2025 Africa Cup of Nations fixtures) before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for Channel 4?ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Channel 4, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries including the UK
Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure
Fast connection speeds free from throttling
Up to 10 simultaneous connections
30-day money-back guarantee
A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $78.18 and includes an extra four months for free — 78% 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 Algeria vs. Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations for free with ExpressVPN.
Moon phase today: What the Moon will look like on January 10
The Moon is now in its Third Quarter, which means it’s half-illuminated and half in shadow. There's still lots to see on its surface for the time being, so keep reading to find out what you can spot.
What is today’s Moon phase?As of Saturday, Jan. 10, the Moon phase is Third Quarter. According to NASA's Daily Moon Guide, 51% of the Moon will be lit up tonight.
If you look carefully, there should be lots to see tonight. With just your naked eye, you'll be able to catch a glimpse of the Mare Imbrium, Copernicus Crater the Aristarchus Plateau. If you have binoculars, you'll also be able to see the Grimaldi Basin, Alphonsus Crater, and the Mare Humorum. If you have a telescope, set it up and you'll see the Apollo 14 landing spot and the Schiller Crater.
When is the next Full Moon?The next Full Moon will be on Feb. 1. The last full moon was on Jan. 3.
What are Moon phases?NASA explains that the Moon takes about 29.5 days to complete a full orbit, a period known as the lunar cycle. As it moves around Earth, the Moon goes through a series of distinct phases. While the same side of the Moon always faces our planet, the sunlight hitting it changes depending on its position in orbit. This is why the Moon can appear fully lit, partially lit, or completely dark at different times. The lunar cycle includes eight main phases:
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.
NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for January 10, 2026
Today's Connections: Sports Edition will be easier if you know west coast schools.
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. 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: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. Here's a hint for today's Connections: Sports Edition categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Hockey
Green: For short
Blue: In brief
Purple: The beginning
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: A Western Conference NHL player
Green: NBA player nicknames that are initialisms
Blue: ACC teams, abbreviated
Purple: Starts of NFL team names
Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.
Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.
Drumroll, please!
The solution to today's Connections: Sports Edition #474 is...
What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?A Western Conference NHL player - CANUCK, DUCK, KING, SHARK
NBA player nicknames that are initialisms - AD, KD, LBJ, SGA
ACC teams, abbreviated - FSU, ND, UNC, UVA
Starts of NFL team names - BRON, CHAR, PACK, PANT
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.
NYT Pips hints, answers for January 10, 2026
Welcome to your guide to Pips, the latest game in the New York Times catalogue.
Released in August 2025, the 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 onto 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 PipsIf you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity for 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 January 10, 2026The 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 January 10, 2026 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Jan. 10 PipsNumber (6): Everything in this space must add up to 6. The answer is 6-2, placed horizontally.
Greater Than (1): Everything in this space must be greater than 1. The answer is 6-2, placed horizontally.
Equal (1): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 1-1, placed horizontally; 1-5, placed vertically.
Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 1-6, placed horizontally.
Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 1-5, placed vertically; 0-4, placed horizontally.
Equal (0): Everything in this space must be equal to 0. The answer is 3-0, placed horizontally; 0-4, placed horizontally.
Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 1-5, placed. vertically; 0-4, placed horizontally.
Medium difficulty hints, answers for Jan. 10 PipsNumber (7): Everything in this space must add up to 7. The answer is 6-1, placed horizontally.
Greater Than (2): Everything in this space must be greater than 2. The answer is 1-2, placed horizontally.
Greater Than (9): Everything in this space must be greater than 9. The answer is 1-5, placed vertically; 6-0, placed horizontally.
Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 6-0, placed horizontally; 4-3, placed horizontally.
Number (5): Everything in this space must add up to 5. The answer is 4-3, placed horizontally; 2-0, placed horizontally.
Equal (0): Everything in this space must be equal to 0. The answer is 0-0, placed vertically; 2-0, placed horizontally.
Hard difficulty hints, answers for Jan. 10 PipsLess Than (5): Everything in this purple space must be less than 5. The answer is 0-0, placed vertically.
Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 1-3, placed horizontally.
Number (6): Everything in this space must add up to 6. The answer is 1-3, placed horizontally; 3-2, placed vertically.
Equal (4): Everything in this yellow space must be equal to 4. The answer is 4-4, placed vertically; 4-6, placed horizontally.
Greater Than (9): Everything in this space must be greater than 9. The answer is 4-6, placed horizontally; 4-0, placed vertically.
Number (11): Everything in this space must add up to 11. The answer is 6-5, placed vertically.
Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 3-2, placed vertically.
Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 2-0, placed horizontally.
Less Than (5): Everything in this space must be less than 5. The answer is 2-0, placed horizontally; 4-0, placed vertically.
Greater Than (10): Everything in this yellow space must be greater than 10. The answer is 6-3, placed vertically; 6-1, placed horizontally.
Greater Than (2): Everything in this space must be greater than 2. The answer is 3-0, placed vertically.
Greater Than (2): Everything in this purple space must be greater than 2. The answer is 6-3, placed vertically.
Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 6-1, placed horizontally; 1-0, placed vertically.
Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 4-1, placed horizontally.
Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 4-1, placed horizontally; 1-0, placed vertically; 0-6, placed vertically.
Less Than (4): Everything in this red space must be less than 4. The answer is 3-0, placed vertically; 0-5, placed horizontally.
Greater Than (4): Everything in this space must be greater than 4. The answer is 0-5, placed horizontally.
Greater Than (9): Everything in this space must be greater than 9. The answer is 6-6, placed vertically.
Greater Than (5): Everything in this space must be greater than 5. The answer is 0-6, placed vertically.
If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 10, 2026
The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult to solve if you're always on the go
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 January 10, 2026 Here's a hint for today's Connections categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
Yellow: Long and round
Green: Website views
Blue: To leave
Purple: Calculators
Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:
Yellow: Hollow cylinders
Green: Software platforms
Blue: Take off
Purple: Units of measure
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 #944 is...
What is the answer to Connections todayHollow cylinders: HOSE, PIPE, STRAW, TUBE
Software platforms: APP, DESKTOP, MOBILE, WEB
Take off: BOOK, DIP, JET, SPLIT
Units of measure: BAR, GRAM, MOLE, VOLT
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for January 10, 2026Are 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.
NYT Strands hints, answers for January 10, 2026
Today's NYT Strands hints are easy if you're always putting things off.
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 MashableBy providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.
If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.
SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for January 10, 2026 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 10, 2026 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: If not now, when?The words are related to delays.
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explainedThese words describe a time in the future.
NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.
NYT Strands spangram answer todayToday's spangram is Procrastinator.
NYT Strands word list for January 10Later
Eventually
Soon
Shortly
Tomorrow
Procrastinator
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.
Wordle today: Answer, hints for January 10, 2026
Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you're hysterical.
If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for January 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 January 10, 2026 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:Insane.
Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?There are no recurring letters.
Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...Today's Wordle starts with the letter M.
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...
MANIC
Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.
SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for January 10, 2026Reporting 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.
Some new IKEA Matter over Thread smart home devices have a hidden trick
IKEA is in the midst of rolling out a new lineup of smart home devices, ditching Zigbee in favor of Matter over Thread. Though the full lineup isn’t available everywhere yet (virtually none of it is available in my local store here in Australia), some users have noticed that some devices aren’t locked to the new Thread protocol.
This $28 scanner app lasts for life
TL;DR: A one-time $27.99 gives you permanent access to iScanner — an all-in-one mobile scanner, PDF editor, and file manager backed by powerful AI, available on iOS and Android through Jan. 11 only.
Opens in a new window Credit: iScanner iScanner App: Lifetime Subscription $27.99$199.90 Save $171.91 Get Deal
If you’re heading into the new year determined to be more organized (or at least less buried in paperwork), this offer is perfectly timed. For a few more days, you can score lifetime access to the iScanner app for just $27.99 with code FLASH — and instantly turn your phone into a full scanning and PDF-editing powerhouse.
iScanner is built for people who need clean, professional documents without lugging around a scanner or waiting until they’re back at a computer. Students, freelancers, parents, small business owners — anyone who deals with forms, receipts, or paperwork — gets a huge upgrade here.
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!Some of what iScanner helps you do in seconds:
Scan anything — documents, IDs, receipts, books, notes, and multi-page files
Export in multiple formats — PDF, JPG, DOC, XLS, PPT, or TXT
Auto-detect edges and straighten pages with AI
Remove shadows and fix warped scans for clean results
Recognize text in 20+ languages
Edit PDFs directly — markup, blur text, add notes, correct colors
Sign documents or insert saved signatures
Merge, split, number, watermark, and secure files
Organize your files with folders and drag-and-drop
Lock sensitive documents with PIN protection
Use specialty modes like Math Solver, Area Measurement, Object Counter, and QR reader
Everything lives on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device — no ads, no recurring subscription, and no desktop hardware required.
If you want a simple, affordable way to clean up your digital life in 2026, this is it. Get lifetime access to the iScanner App for just $27.99 (reg. $199.90) through Jan. 11 with code FLASH.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Play 1,000s of nostalgic games with this $85 console
TL;DR: Pay just $84.97 (reg. $159.99) to get a retro gaming console packed with thousands of classics, dual operating systems, 4K output, Wi-Fi, and easy plug-and-play fun for long winter nights.
Opens in a new window Credit: Kinhank Kinhank Super Console X2 Pro Retro Gaming Emulator & Streaming Console $84.97$159.99 Save $75.02 Get Deal
When winter eventually feels draggy, here’s a fun — and shockingly affordable — way to speed things up: the Kinhank Super Console X2 Pro is just $84.97 through Jan. 11, and it’s basically a nostalgia machine disguised as a streaming box.
Plug it into your TV, and boom — thousands of pre-loaded retro and 3D games appear at your fingertips, spanning multiple generations of gaming.
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’s powered by the S905X2 chip, Mali-G31MP2 GPU, and a quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU up to 1.8GHz, which is tech speak for “your old favorites will run smoother than you remember.” The console even outputs in 4K UHD, giving classics a crisp upgrade. And because it supports 2.4G + 5G Wi-Fi, downloading extra 3D games or adding wireless controllers is effortless.
One of the coolest perks? You get two systems in one — Android 9.0 for apps and streaming, plus EmuELEC 4.5 for dedicated gaming. That means more flexibility, more entertainment, and more things to do when the weather says “stay inside.”
Multiplayer support also makes this little console a crowd-pleaser: break out Mario-style platformers, retro racing titles, fighting games, puzzlers, and more for instant living-room fun. And if you ever want to expand your library, the microSD slot lets you load even more games.
Whether you need a boredom buster, a nostalgic gift, or a winter hobby that doesn’t involve shoveling snow, this all-in-one retro powerhouse should be a contender.
Get the Kinhank Super Console X2 Pro for just $84.97 (reg. $159.99) through Jan. 11 with free shipping.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Please stop using your high refresh rate monitor on default settings
If you’ve recently upgraded to a high refresh rate monitor and are disappointed by blurry performance, you're not alone. Unfortunately, the cause behind the blur isn't always obvious.
Character.AI settles lawsuits related to teen deaths
Character.AI and Google have settled several lawsuits filed against both companies by parents of children who died by suicide following lengthy conversations with chatbots on the Character.AI platform. Their exchanges allegedly included concerning discussions of the teens' mental health and well-being.
Character.AI said it could not comment further on the settlement, the details of which must still be finalized by the court, according to The Guardian. Representatives for the plaintiffs did not respond immediately to a request for comment from Mashable.
The most prominent case involved the 2024 death of 14-year-old Sewell Setzer III, who became secretly obsessed with a Character.AI chatbot based on the popular Game of Thrones character Daenerys Targaryen.
SEE ALSO: 'Perfect predator': When chatbots sexually abuse kidsSetzer's mother, Megan Garcia, only became aware of his Character.AI account when alerted by a police officer following his death, because the app was open on his phone. Garcia read messages in which Setzer behaved as if he were in love with the chatbot, which allegedly role-played numerous sexual encounters with him. The chatbot used graphic language and scenarios, including incest, according to Garcia.
If an adult human had talked to her son similarly, she told Mashable last year, it would constitute sexual grooming and abuse.
In October 2024, the Social Media Victims Law Center and Tech Justice Law Project filed a wrongful death suit on behalf of Garcia against Character.AI, seeking to hold the company responsible for the death of her son, alleging that its product was dangerously defective.
The filing also named as defendants the Google engineers Noam Shazeer and Daniel De Freitas, Character.AI's cofounders.
Additionally, the lawsuit alleged that Google knew of concerning risks related to the technology Shazeer and De Freitas had developed before leaving to found Character.AI. Google contributed "financial resources, personnel, and AI technology" to Character.AI's design and development, according to the lawsuit, and thus could be considered a co-creator of the platform.
Google eventually struck a $2.7 billion licensing deal in 2024 with Character.AI to use its technology. Part of that agreement brought Shazeer and De Freitas back to AI roles at Google.
In fall 2025, the Social Media Victims Law Center filed three additional lawsuits against Character.AI and Google, representing the parents of children who died by suicide or allegedly experienced sexual abuse in the course of using the app.
Additionally, youth safety experts declared Character.AI unsafe for teens, following testing that yielded hundreds of instances of grooming and sexual exploitation of test accounts registered as minors.
By October 2025, Character.AI announced that it would no longer allow minors to engage in open-ended exchanges with the chatbots on its platform. The company's CEO, Karandeep Anand, told Mashable the move was not in response to specific safety concerns involving Character.AI's platform but to address broader outstanding questions about youth engagement with AI chatbots.
If you're feeling suicidal or experiencing a mental health crisis, please talk to somebody. You can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can reach the Trans Lifeline by calling 877-565-8860 or the Trevor Project at 866-488-7386. Text "START" to Crisis Text Line at 741-741. Contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI, Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. ET, or email info@nami.org. If you don't like the phone, consider using the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Chat. Here is a list of international resources.
CES 2026: TDM’s Neo headphones turn into speakers with a simple twist
Every now and then, you'll come across a new piece of tech at CES that just immediately clicks, and you'll think to yourself, "This is actually genius."
CES 2026 was filled with robotics, AI, and other futuristic tech, yet one of the most impressive things I found was a pair of headphones that turn into speakers called Neo from a company called TDM.
TDM's CES 2026 booth Credit: MashableOr are they speakers that turn into headphones? TDM is going with the former by calling the Neo headphones first, but they are, in fact, both.
TDM Neo Hybrid Headphone Speakers are a pair of high-quality over-ear headphones that transform into speakers by simply bringing the two headphone sides together and twisting them until they snap into place. From there, your personal audio experience becomes one that can be shared by everyone around you.
TDM Neo Hybrid Headphone Speakers as headphones Credit: MashableThe implementation of transitioning from headphones to speaker and vice versa was so simple, and more importantly, felt seamless. It worked with audio playing in your ears, and then automatically switched to the external audio source with a twist.
Twisting the TDM Neo Hybrid Headphone Speakers Credit: MashableSometimes a two-in-one product looks natural in one form but odd in its alternative one, but that's not the case with the Neo headphones. The Neo looks stylish as both headphones and a speaker. Not to mention, they sounded great in both modes, too.
As an additional bonus, TDM realized that you may want to use the Neo in speaker form to store the device, making it more compact. The Neo can be programmed to pause all audio, in addition to other programmable options, when twisted in the speaker form.
Twisting the TDM Neo Hybrid Headphone Speakers as speakers Credit: MashableTDM states that the Neo can last for more than 200 hours in headphone mode and 10 hours in speaker mode on a full charge before needing to be plugged in.
Personally, the instant use case I thought of for the Neo headphones is when you want to share music with friends. Sometimes, you'll want to introduce a buddy to a new song or artist, so you share earbuds or hand over your headphones. But, with the TDM Neo headphones, you'd be able to twist your device into a speaker and experience the song — and their reaction — in real time with them.
Twisting the TDM Neo Hybrid Headphone Speakers look really slick Credit: MashableThe TDM Neo Hybrid Headphone Speakers will go on sale later this month for $249, with black and white color options available.
When it comes to the best things that Mashable saw at CES, TDM’s Neo headphones are definitely up high on my personal list.
Head to the Mashable CES 2026 hub for the latest news and live updates from the biggest show in tech, where Mashable journalists are reporting live.


