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How to watch Minnesota vs. Indiana online for free
No. 4 Indiana is looking great this season, aside from its solitary loss two weeks ago to Ohio State. But the Hoosiers bounced back with a low-scoring win over the Michigan Wolverines and now face tricky competition in the Minnesota Golden Gophers.
Minnesota aren't currently ranked but they are nipping at the heels of Indiana and Northwestern in the Big 10, which makes this a big game. The Golden Gophers have been a little unpredictable in recent outings, swinging from a historic win over Michigan to a routing at the hands of Purdue. All of which makes this a crucial Week 9 game.
If you want to watch Minnesota vs. Indiana for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.
When is Minnesota vs. Indiana?Minnesota vs. Indiana starts at 3.30 p.m. ET on Oct. 31. This game takes place at the Memorial Stadium in Bloomington, Indiana.
Minnesota vs. Indiana is broadcast on CBS.
How to watch college football in 2026Fans can live stream college football on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.
ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $31.99/month for 1 year Shop NowChannels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNX
ESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $31.99 per month, but for an extra $4 per month you can secure a plan that also includes Disney+ and Hulu.
Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99/year Shop NowChannels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten Network
Fox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $38.89 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a three-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.
FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CW
FuboTV offers more than 250 live TV channels and lets you watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a five-day free trial period.
Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters with a trial before you make any commitment.
Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $99.99/month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CW
Hulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $99.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). Plus, the first month will only cost $49.99.
The included ESPN+ access provides bonus coverage of even more college football games, on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.
Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $60.99/month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network
Sling is a comprehensive sports streaming service that offers a wide range of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue package gives you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, plus ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.
YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CW
YouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.
How to watch Minnesota vs. Indiana from anywhere in the worldIf you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Minnesota vs. Indiana from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.
Sign in to your favorite streaming service
Watch Minnesota vs. Indiana from anywhere in the world
ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries, including the U.S.
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 $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 usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get DealHow to watch Northwestern vs. Oregon online for free
This Big 10 showdown is one of the key college games to watch this week. No. 20 Northwestern Wildcats are on an impressive run, having won four in a row (6-1 overall) to keep themselves in contention for the conference championship — which would mean an automatic playoff bid.
The Oregon Ducks haven't been quite as good this season, with a 4-3 record, but they've also notched some big victories. They've mostly alternated wins and losses over the past nine weeks, so after losing to Illinois last time out, Oregon could be due a victory over the Wildcats.
If you want to watch Northwestern vs. Oregon for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.
When is Northwestern vs. Oregon?Northwestern vs. Oregon starts at 3.30 p.m. ET on Oct. 31. This game takes place at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.
Northwestern vs. Oregon is broadcast on Peacock.
How to watch college football in 2026Fans can live stream college football on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.
ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $31.99/month for 1 year Shop NowChannels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNX
ESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $31.99 per month, but for an extra $4 per month you can secure a plan that also includes Disney+ and Hulu.
Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99/year Shop NowChannels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten Network
Fox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $38.89 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a three-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.
FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CW
FuboTV offers more than 250 live TV channels and lets you watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a five-day free trial period.
Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters with a trial before you make any commitment.
Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $99.99/month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CW
Hulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $99.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). Plus, the first month will only cost $49.99.
The included ESPN+ access provides bonus coverage of even more college football games, on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.
Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $60.99/month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network
Sling is a comprehensive sports streaming service that offers a wide range of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue package gives you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, plus ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.
YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CW
YouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.
How to watch Northwestern vs. Oregon from anywhere in the worldIf you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Northwestern vs. Oregon from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.
Sign in to your favorite streaming service
Watch Northwestern vs. Oregon from anywhere in the world
ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries, including the U.S.
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 $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 usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get DealHow to watch Ohio State vs. USC online for free
No. 2 Ohio State may be flying high in the rankings, but they have a challenge as they face USC in Week 9 of the college football season.
The Buckeyes' starting quarterback Julian Sayin is out with an injury, leaving the Buckeyes with uncertain freshman options. While the safe bet is on a win for Ohio State, nothing's for certain — and the USC Trojans are fighting to climb the Big 10 rankings and stay in the playoffs conversation.
If you want to watch Ohio State vs. USC for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.
When is Ohio State vs. USC?Ohio State vs. USC takes place at 7.30 p.m. ET on Oct. 31. This game takes place at the United Airlines Field at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles.
Ohio State vs. USC is broadcast on NBC.
How to watch college football in 2026Fans can live stream college football on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.
ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $31.99/month for 1 year Shop NowChannels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNX
ESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $31.99 per month, but for an extra $4 per month you can secure a plan that also includes Disney+ and Hulu.
Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99/year Shop NowChannels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten Network
Fox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $38.89 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a three-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.
FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CW
FuboTV offers more than 250 live TV channels and lets you watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a five-day free trial period.
Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters with a trial before you make any commitment.
Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $99.99/month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CW
Hulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $99.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). Plus, the first month will only cost $49.99.
The included ESPN+ access provides bonus coverage of even more college football games, on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.
Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $60.99/month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network
Sling is a comprehensive sports streaming service that offers a wide range of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue package gives you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, plus ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.
YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CW
YouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.
How to watch Ohio State vs. USC from anywhere in the worldIf you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Ohio State vs. USC from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.
Sign in to your favorite streaming service
Watch Ohio State vs. USC from anywhere in the world
ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries, including the U.S.
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 $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 usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get DealHow to watch Florida vs. Georgia online for free
The Florida-Georgia college football rivalry — aka the "World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party" — kicks off again this week. Though it actually takes place indoors this year, with the game moved to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Both teams are coming off a bye week, but the No. 17 Florida Gators may have the psychological edge over the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs following Georgia's shock loss to Auburn in their last outing, which saw Georgia slip from the No. 1 spot. Florida is coming off a win over the Texas Longhorns and wants to score another victory to climb further up the rankings.
If you want to watch Florida vs. Georgia for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.
When is Florida vs. Georgia?Florida vs. Georgia takes place at 3.30 p.m. ET on Oct. 31. This game takes place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
Florida vs. Georgia is broadcast on ABC.
How to watch college football in 2026Fans can live stream college football on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.
ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $31.99/month for 1 year Shop NowChannels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNX
ESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $31.99 per month, but for an extra $4 per month you can secure a plan that also includes Disney+ and Hulu.
Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99/year Shop NowChannels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten Network
Fox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $38.89 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a three-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.
FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CW
FuboTV offers more than 250 live TV channels and lets you watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a five-day free trial period.
Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters with a trial before you make any commitment.
Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $99.99/month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CW
Hulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $99.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). Plus, the first month will only cost $49.99.
The included ESPN+ access provides bonus coverage of even more college football games, on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.
Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $60.99/month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network
Sling is a comprehensive sports streaming service that offers a wide range of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue package gives you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, plus ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.
YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CW
YouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.
How to watch Florida vs. Georgia from anywhere in the worldIf you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Florida vs. Georgia from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.
Sign in to your favorite streaming service
Watch Florida vs. Georgia from anywhere in the world
ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries, including the U.S.
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 $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 usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get DealThe Lofi Girl headphones are actually real now — heres how to preorder them
This is a safe space to admit that we've all wished we could steal the Lofi Girl's cozy desk space from her.
Well now, you kind of can. The internet icon who has given many of us company through late study sessions and long workdays is now giving us the chance to capture her impeccable cozy vibes via her iconic headphones. The Lofi Pro headphones, sold by Lofi Merch (the team behind the YouTube channel), are officially available for preorder for $225. Preorders run through Nov. 14, with the Lofi team recommending you order by the final preorder date for arrival by Christmas.
Opens in a new window Credit: Lofi Girl Lofi Pro headphones $225 at Lofi GirlPreorder at Lofi Girl
The headphones are basically an exact replica of Lofi Girl's (or Jade's, according to the headphones' product page). They feature the beige, red, and black color scheme, the scallop edges, and even have magnetic googly eyes, so you can decide whether or not you want to match Jade exactly. The synthetic leather ear cushions are also magnetic and can be changed out for velvet ear cushions, which are available for purchase separately on the Lofi Merch website for $24.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Lofi Girl Lofi Girl velvet earpads $24.99 at Lofi GirlPreorder at Lofi Girl
Also excluded from base headphones kit is a carrying case, so if you're looking to take the headphones on the go, it's worth noting that a case will run you an additional $39.99. The headphones themselves, however, do come with a 3.5mm audio jack, active noise cancellation of up to 30 decibels, 48 hours of battery with ANC on (and 65 hours with it off), wear detection, physical on-ear controls, and multipoint pairing.
In a headphones market where more and more brands are releasing mid-range models, the Lofi Pro headphones could be a major contender with an especially unique appeal. At the very least, I'll have to get my hands on them and live out my lofi dreams to know for sure.
Review: The new Kindle Colorsoft is... fine.
The best Kindle e-readers are essential for book lovers, and Amazon just released a new Kindle Colorsoft (and the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition with an aluminum body), along with a new basic Kindle, Kindle Paperwhite/Paperwhite Signature Edition, and the Kindle Click page-turner. Following last year's refresh of the Kindle Scribe lineup, that means Amazon has an all-new Kindle family, just in time for the holidays.
I've been reviewing the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition for Mashable for the past few weeks. Except for the new aluminum body, fig colorway, and higher storage, it's functionally the same as the base Colorsoft model, so we won't be reviewing them separately.
If you've been curious about Amazon's color e-readers, then I'd recommend reading my Kindle Colorsoft review first. Unfortunately, while there's a lot that I do love about this device, it doesn't fix the biggest problem — the color is still very disappointing.
That cover is definitely yellow-ish. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Kindle Colorsoft review: Manage your expectations when it comes to colorNow, I want to be clear about one thing: Amazon uses E Ink technology for its e-readers. This distinctive, paper-like digital display is a product of the E Ink Corporation. And the truth is that E Ink just doesn't do color very well. So, the technology is what it is.
The E Ink color experience on the Kindle Colorsoft is disappointing. That was true with the original model from 2024, and it hasn't changed with the 2026 model. What has changed is that the Colorsoft now offers true edge-to-edge color, so there are no dimming or lighting issues around the edges.
But Amazon promises readers something more: "Paper-like color perfect for comics, graphic novels, and more." And that's not what I'm seeing. In fact, some of Amazon's official photography with the Kindle Colorsoft appears to exaggerate the color saturation, at least to my eye. I've never seen color quite that bright in practice.
I haven't seen colors quite this bright on my review unit, sadly. Credit: AmazonI put the Kindle side-by-side with illustrated books, comic books, and graphic novels I have on my bookshelf, and the difference is very obvious, even when you crank up the vividness and brightness to the limit. There's just no comparison, really.
Even in comics with more neutral tones and softer colors like the classic Batman comic The Long Halloween, the difference stands out clearly. How important is the color problem? Well, the word "color" is right there in the name — Kindle Colorsoft. Though, I suppose the emphasis should be on "soft."
The color difference is obvious. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable What elder millennial nerd doesn't own a copy of 'Watchmen'? Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableI have seen more vibrant and colorful electronic paper technology. Samsung's ePaper does a better job with color, though there are other trade-offs. It takes time for the screen to change to a new image, which isn't an option in an e-reader that demands near-instant page turns.
In my photos of Samsung's ePaper, you'll notice brighter colors, but there's a reason Samsung reserves this tech for commercial use.
Samsung's ePaper commercial display technology on display. Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable A closer look at Samsung's ePaper commercial display technology. Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableIf you want to read comics, magazines, or illustrated books in digital form, a tablet like the new iPad Mini or Amazon Alexa tablets would be a better option. (Mashable is in the process of reviewing both of those devices.)
And you can always go to an actual bookstore.
Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition: What I likedTo be clear, there is a lot to love about the Kindle Colorsoft, particularly the Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition. I love the fig color, which is a close match for the new burgundy iPhone 18 Pro. (Fun fact: An Amazon spokesperson told Mashable the fig color was inspired by the same industry trend report that inspired the burgundy iPhone.)
The new aluminum body available in the Paperwhite SE and Colorsoft SE is worth the upgrade. They have a similar feel to the Apple iPad Air, which I also loved. It's also satisfying to see the cover screen artwork and your book covers in color.
Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableI also appreciated the ability to zoom in on comic panels and illustrations, which is a great way to appreciate fine details in the artwork.
Credit: Timothy Werth / Mashable ...enhance! Credit: Timothy Werth / MashableYou can double-click to read comics panel-by-panel on the Colorsoft, rather than page-by-page. Often, this works really well, but for artists who use complicated panels of varying sizes and styles (like you'll find in The Long Halloween), some of the panels fit very awkwardly on the screen.
The new Kindle Colorsoft also has a lot of the features we loved in other Kindle devices — a waterproof design, a battery that lasts for weeks, auto-adjusting light. Amazon also moved the power button to the side, which is a smart update. Only the Signature Edition supports wireless charging, and it now has magnetic pogo pins on the back. That means if you're used to using Qi wireless charging accessories with your Kindle, they won't work here. For me, this isn't a problem.
To sum up — the Kindle Colorsoft isn't a bad color e-reader. It just suffers from the same problems all color e-readers do.
The Kindle Colorsoft: Who it's forIf you believe some color is better than no color, or if you're a note-taker who loves to highlight their books, then the Kindle Colorsoft would be a smart upgrade from the basic Kindle. (Pro tip: We named the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft a Mashable Choice product, and the ability to write on the screen lets you use color in much better ways.) However, the Kobo Libra Colour is retaining its top spot as our favorite color e-reader.
The Kindle Colorsoft would also be a smart option for kids in the process of graduating from illustrated kids' books to chapter books. The Colorsoft could help make this transition a bit more inviting, and parents can also get a Kindle Colorsoft Kids Edition for $299.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition $319.99 at AmazonShop Now at Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Kids Edition $299.99 at Amazon
Shop Now at Amazon
I tested all of Amazons e-readers, and this is the best Kindle to buy
Choosing a Kindle is just the start. Once you have a Kindle, there's so much you can do to make the most of it. For avid readers, Stuff Your Kindle Day and Libby let you cross every last item off your annual reading list. You can even buy Kindle accessories like remote page-turners and gooseneck stands so you don't have to hold your Kindle while reading. Which, by the way, we love Amazon's new Kindle Click and Page Turn Cover.
So, after extensive testing, reading so many books, and attending BookCon, I created this guide to the best Kindles to buy in 2026.
Meet the new 2026 KindlesOn Oct. 1, Amazon announced a redesign of the entire Kindle collection. Before the launch, Mashable's tech editor, Timothy Beck Werth, went hands-on with the devices, seeing their vivid new colors like ube, as well as the new aluminum casings on some of the e-readers. Here are all the new Kindle e-readers:
Kindle (16GB) — $149.99 to $169.99
Kindle, Aluminum (32GB) — $189.99
Kindle Paperwhite (16GB) — $199.99 to $219.99
Kindle Colorsoft (16GB) — $289.99
Kindle Kids (16GB) — $179.99
Kindle Kids Paperwhite (16GB) — $229.99
Kindle Kids Colorsoft (16GB) — $299.99
Kindle Click page turner — $34.99
Kindle Page Turn Cover — $79.99
For years, Kindle prices have stayed stable, but in August 2026, they finally got an increase. Every model except the Kindle Scribe received a price increase. We can thank RAMageddon, as an Amazon spokesperson said that the increased prices are a result of "significant increases in memory and storage component costs." Here's a breakdown of all the new Kindle prices
More 2026 Kindle updatesAs of May 20, 2026, Amazon no longer lend software updates or provide web services to devices released in 2012 or earlier, essentially bricking them. Users will still be able to read currently downloaded books on the device, but to add new books, they will need to connect the device to a computer. This is a huge hit, especially to Libby users who need web service access to read borrowed books.
The affected Kindles include:
Kindle (1st generation)
Kindle (2nd generation)
Kindle DX
Kindle DX Graphite
Kindle Keyboard
Kindle 4
Kindle Touch
Kindle 5
Kindle Paperwhite (1st generation)
Owners of these Kindle models are obviously upset, as it means they'll need to purchase a new device to maintain access to all features. While some are considering switching to a different e-reader, like a Kobo, Amazon still makes great e-readers, and it's a testament to the brand that devices that are at least 14 years old are still going strong.
Which Kindle is right for you?If you're concerned about buying the newest tech, that's not an issue since, as of October 2026, there are nine new models to shop.
Before you choose a Kindle, you need to ask one question first: Do you want it to be waterproof? If you prefer reading near a body of water — whether in the bath, by the pool, or at the beach — that immediately narrows down your options. Since the Kindle Oasis is no longer available, your waterproof options are the Kindle Paperwhite, Paperwhite Signature Edition, Colorsoft Signature Edition, and Paperwhite Kids.
Trying to decide which Kindle is right for you? Above all, you need to decide if you need a waterproof e-reader. Credit: Samantha Mangino / MashableBeyond water resistance, here are a few other features to consider:
Display size: The basic Kindle has a 6-inch display, while the largest has a 10.2-inch display.
Storage capacity: Kindles range from 16GB to 32GB of storage capacity.
Battery life: The new Kindles generally have outstanding batteries. On the low end, they last up to six weeks per charge, while others last up to 12 weeks.
Writing capability: The Kindle Scribe is the only model that allows you to write with the included stylus.
The latest Kindles all boast a maximum brightness of 94 nits and a 300 ppi, high-resolution display with zero glare, so you can enjoy sharp text and images at any viewing angle. Kindles are also equipped with WiFi connectivity, allowing you to download all the reading material you could ever want. Plus, you can listen to audiobooks on Audible via the built-in Bluetooth connection.
Not to mention, out of all the e-readers I've tested, Kindles have the best compatibility with Libby. I love the digital platform because I can read for free and support my local library. Some other e-readers require you to download your library e-book to a computer and then upload it to an e-reader, but with Kindles, your e-books are sent straight to your device with a click.
And if you were a die-hard Kindle Oasis fan and are attached to page-turning buttons, your best option is to get the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition with the Page Turn Cover.
SEE ALSO: I read over 50 books a year. Here are my favorite e-readers. How to get free e-books on Kindle With just a click, transfer your Libby e-book to your Kindle device. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable Your Libby ebook will automatically populate in your Kindle library. Credit: Samantha Mangino / MashableThe best way to read free e-books on a Kindle is with Libby. Libby allows you to borrow e-books through libraries, and all you need is a library card. Through the Libby app, borrow books and then select the "Read with Kindle" option, which allows you to send these e-books to your Kindle library.
Another option for finding free e-books is through Stuff Your Kindle events. These are author-driven events that offer limited-time deals on e-books, often making them heavily discounted or totally free.
How to make the most of your KindleThrough our testing and daily use, we've spent a lot of time with Kindles, learning how to make the most of them. We've written extensively on all the ways to maximize your Kindle, so be sure to browse through our guides and explainers:
How to make the most of your Kindle: 8 features you need to use
What is Stuff Your Kindle Day? The best way to fill your e-reader with free books
I've read hundreds of free Kindle books with Libby. Here's how.
What is Kindle Rewards? Earn free credits when shopping the Kindle store
What is Kindle+? A library of books at your fingertips for just $12 a month.
Where to get free e-books: Load up your e-reader without spending a dime
Prime members can get a free e-book every month with Amazon First Reads
The 10 best e-readers weve ever tested — including the 2026 Kindles
So, what is the best e-reader for 2026? I'm regularly testing new e-readers (and tablets) and cycling through different models to stay up to date on the best options available. If you're gearing up to read more books this year, I can recommend a model you'll love.
But what's the e-reader? Well, Amazon just released my new favorite e-reader.
Featured Video For You Latest e-reader newsOn Oct. 1, Amazon dropped a redesigned collection of Kindles. We've tested the latest e-readers and named the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition the best overall e-reader.
As of September 2026, we've added the Boox Go 6 to this guide, naming it the best Kindle alternative. We also named the Kindle Paperwhite the best e-reader for the beach (in addition to being the best overall) and named the Durobo Krono the best e-reader for audiobooks.
In August 2026, Amazon increased the price of Kindles. Now the basic Kindle costs $149.99 ($40 increase) and the Kindle Paperwhite costs $199.99 ($40 increase).
In July 2026, Boox announced it was releasing a pocket-sized e-reader, the Picco. After IFA 2026, rumors floated that the Boox Picco would be released in November 2026.
Also in July 2026, Xteink dropped the X4 Pro, a new tiny e-reader with a touchscreen.
As of April 2026, we have included the Durobo Krono and the Xetink X4 e-reader in this guide.
In May 2026, Amazon ceased support for e-readers released in 2012 or earlier, which includes the first generation of Kindle and Kindle Paperwhite.
Also in May 2026, Kobo announced its integration with Storygraph, which syncs your on-device reading progress with the Storygraph app.
When picking an e-reader, price is always a consideration. However, almost all e-readers fall into the same price range. Kindle and Kobo e-readers both start around $149.99/$159.99, while the tiny Boox Picco is just $109.99. If you want handwriting capabilities, Kobo and Boox make the most affordable options, as Kindle's Scribes start at $500.
Other e-readers we've tested From left to right: Kindle Paperwhite, Nook GlowLight 4 Plus, Kindle Scribe Credit: Samantha Mangino / MashableRemarkable PaperPro: Whenever you search for e-readers, Remarkable's tablets will always pop up in the search results, but unfortunately, it's hard to obtain ePUB files on the Remarkable. With Remarkable, you can access files within Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. If you have any locked ePUB files — like from Libby — you won't be able to access them on a Remarkable tablet. So, after testing the Remarkable tablet myself, it proved to be a better document reader or digital journal than an e-reader.
Onyx Boox Go 7: While we love the Boox Go 6, we didn't love the Go 7. It's the same size as the Kobo Libra or Amazon Kindle, but it really lags on processing speed. Reading ePUB files from Libby required downloading the Adobe Digital Editions app onto the Boox Go 7, and there was significant lag when opening and closing the app. While it was an easier process than getting library books on a Nook, it was still a major pain compared to Kindle or Kobo's integrations. The Boox Go 7 lagged and took ages to load files. I was most looking forward to testing this Boox because of its page-turning buttons, but unfortunately, I found that they didn't work on my device.
Boox Palma 2: I loved reading on the Boox Palma. It's a really solid palm-sized e-reader with an open Android system, so you can download any reading app from the Google Play store, including Libby, Kindle, and Kobo. Unfortunately, the Palma 2 is being discontinued, and its availability is dwindling, which is why it's not included in this list.
In terms of big-name e-readers, you might notice one omission from this list: the Barnes & Noble Nook. I have tested this e-reader, and it was previously featured on this list. However, after testing more devices, it no longer makes the cut. In comparison to any of the Kindles or the Kobo Libra, the Nook has sloth-like performance, making it frustrating to use.
Plus, getting my library books onto the Nook was a nightmare, as it was a multi-step process that required downloading to a computer before uploading to a Nook. Its only redeeming quality was the buttons on either side of the device, which made page turning a breeze. However, unless you are a loyal buyer of Barnes & Noble books, I recommend steering clear of the Nook.
Where to get e-reader books for freeOnce you get an e-reader, it's time to fill it up with books, and that doesn't necessarily mean spending money. In fact, you can load up your e-reader without spending a dime; you just need to be a bit resourceful.
The best way to read nearly any book — a classic or hot new release — is with Libby. I have read hundreds of free books with the Libby app — I wouldn't have been able to test for this guide without it. It connects with your library card, allowing you to borrow from your local library's digital collection. Plus, both Kobo and Kindle have exceptional Libby integrations.
Another way to build your library is through Stuff Your Kindle Day events. These are 24-hour opportunities led by authors that make books discounted or free.
If you're a fan of the classics or looking to discover a treasure lost to time, an online resource like Project Gutenberg has more than 75,000 books in the public domain that you can download and read on an e-reader.
Election Day 2026 trackers: Follow election results, lawsuits, and more online
The 2026 midterm elections are on Tuesday, and ballots across the country are already streaming in.
Prospective candidates have been in a race against time, money, and the tech industry itself, as major players pledge millions to campaigns and AI threatens to stoke mass confusion.
Control of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives is at play, as well as important gubernatorial races and statewide propositions.
Here's how to stay in the loop on Tuesday and beyond.
SEE ALSO: When it comes to election advice, maybe AI isn't so bad after all? How to find reliable election resultsCan't tune into your local news station? Have you deferred paying for live TV in favor of streaming? Too busy to sit down for an evening's worth of coverage? There's still plenty of ways to stay informed.
Check in with mainstream news outletsHistorically, every major news outlet has offered both online and broadcast coverage of midterm election results. Check out a list of major publishers and their online 2026 election hubs below.
Other civic integrity and election safety organizations will be tracking key races, results, and voting trends surrounding the midterms:
The Voter Poll (conducted by research firm SSRS)
Some social media platforms — as well as some AI developers — have committed to monitoring live election results. A select few will also update live results on devoted pages.
For example, X will provide a live tracker of Congressional seats at the top of the results page for midterm election searches. The tracker is powered by Decision Desk HQ.
Check out more ways to watch live online and stream.
Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.
Monitor fake news, lawsuits, and moreHere are other ways you can stay informed on the state of American politics:
Tracking lawsuits against the Trump administrationPresident Trump's second administration has weathered numerous legal challenges since taking power in 2025. Take a look at the legal databases below:
Center for Progressive Reform, Trump second term tracker
The New York Times, Trump administration lawsuit tracker
The Associated Press, Trump administration lawsuit tracker
JustSecurity, Trump administration litigation database
Tuesday's election may serve as a temperature check for the Trump administration's favorability among Americans. See results of dozens of presidential polls using CNN's polling database, or check out specific approval ratings trackers below.
Meanwhile, AI-powered, politically motivated misinformation, deepfakes, and other misleading posts are running rampant online.
Misinformation watchdog NewsGuard is tracking fake news headlines, deepfakes, and other false claims surrounding the 2026 midterms and foreign political operations.
The Brennan Center for Justice tracks and publishes articles debunking claims about election security and civic processes.
Find all of PolitiFact's midterm-related fact checks on its elections page.
Save $1,000 on an LG 55-inch OLED TV — get a huge early Black Friday discount this weekend
SAVE $1,000: As of Oct. 31, LG OLED evo 55-inch TV is marked down to $999.99. That's a huge $1,000 savings off the regular list price of $1,999.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: LG LG OLED evo 55-inch TV $999.99 at LG$1,999.99 Save $1,000 Get Deal at LG
It might seem like it's too early to start talking Black Friday, but the deals are already popping up on top retailers. And when you're talking Black Friday, you have to talk big savings on big smart TVs. It's just part and parcel of the holiday shopping season.
LG — arguably the top name in high-powered OLED TVs — has dropped a major deal ahead of Black Friday, with a 50% saving on the LG OLED evo 55-inch TV.
As of Oct. 31, the LG OLED evo 55-inch TV is down to just $999.99. This smart TV is usually listed at $1,999.99, which means you save $1,000.
Not only is this TV big and eye-popping — we know TVs go up to 100 inches, but a 55-inch is more than enough for most rooms — it's also stacked with specs. That includes LG's Brightness Booster technology, which enhances picture clarity pixel-by-pixel, and a Filmmaker Mode for a cinema-like movie experience. It's all driven by the immensely powerful Alpha 11 AI Processor Gen3, with support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, plus souped-up gaming features for fully immersive next-gen games.
At this price, it's one of the best value smart TVs you'll find right now. But LG is only guaranteeing this Black Friday price until Nov. 1.
Make sure you don't miss the offer while it's available and save $1,000 on the LG OLED evo 55-inch TV — priced at $999.99 for this weekend only.
The best early Black Friday self-emptying robot vacuum deals you can shop right now
If you’re buying a robot vacuum, it should be self-emptying. It just wouldn’t make sense not to buy one with that feature, given that the whole point is to make vacuuming as hands-off as possible.
I have two beagles, and I vacuum twice a day. That’s why I have what I like to call my Dreame Team: the Dreame L60 Pro Ultra, the Aero Pro Steam, and the N20 Steam Portable Carpet Cleaner. I also have a lone Shark upright. Clearly, I have enough cleaning to do without emptying a robot’s dustbin, too.
SEE ALSO: We found the best robot vacuums for every floor, budget, and level of lazinessLuckily, almost every robot vacuum on Amazon seems to be on sale already. But when everything is flashing a red discount, figuring out which deals are genuinely good takes a little more work. That’s why we’re covering early Black Friday deals on self-emptying robot vacuums earlier than ever.
I’ll be double-checking MSRPs, looking at price history, and comparing prices across retailers to help you get the best value for your money this holiday season. And no, that doesn’t mean only shopping on Amazon. If another store has a better deal, that’s where I’ll send you.
Every robot vacuum below is on sale and comes with a self-emptying dock. I’ll be updating this list as prices change and more Black Friday deals roll in.
Best budget deal Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Q10 S5+ $329.99$549.99 Save $220 Get Deal Why we like it
The Roborock Q10 S5+ is a Mashable fave. Not only is it an affordable option, but Leah Stodart, our former vacuum expert, found it reliably performed in her cleaning tests, including wiping up a variety of spills and splatters in her kitchen.
It’s also super quiet, even when emptying its dustbin. Stodart liked its accurate mapping and sonic mopping, which actually scrubs rather than just dragging a damp pad across your floors. At $329.99, you’re getting more than a basic robot that picks up crumbs and calls it a day.
The only downside? You'll have to wash the mop pad yourself, and Stodart noted that it gets dirty quickly. It also isn’t the most thorough around edges. But if you want a self-emptying robot vacuum without spending $500 or more, this is a good entry-level pick.
Best self-washing mop deal Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Qrevo S Pro $499.99 at Amazon$699.99 Save $200 Get Deal at Amazon Why we like it
If washing the mop pads yourself is a dealbreaker, the Roborock Qrevo S Pro is on sale for $499.99, down from $699.99. That’s $170 more than the Q10 S5+, but you’re getting a dock that does more than empty the dustbin. It also washes the mop pads with hot water, dries them with warm air, and refills the robot’s water tank. You’ll still have some maintenance to do, but at least you’re not left washing the pads after the robot has finished its part.
We haven’t had a chance to test this 2026 model yet, so we can’t give it the same hands-on endorsement as we did for the Q10 S5+. It currently has a 4.1-star average rating on Amazon, though, and the extra dock features make it worth considering if you want less involvement in the mopping. Personally, if I’m buying a robot to mop my floors, I’d prefer not to be responsible for washing its dirty pads afterward.
Robot vacuum mop combos with self-washing mopping padsRoborock Qrevo QV35A — $449.99 $649.99 (save $200)
Dreame L40 Ultra (Gen 2) — $499.98 $749.99 (save $250.01)
Ecovacs Deebot X8 Pro Omni — $599 $1,099.99 (save $500.99)
Eufy E25 — $599.98 $999.99 (save $400.01)
Dreame Aqua10 Ultra Roller — $799.99 $899.99 (save $100)
Shark AV2501S AI Ultra — $279.99 $549.99 (save $270)
Roborock Q7 M5+ — $299.99 $359.99 (save $60)
Roborock Q5 S10+ — $329.99 $549.99 (save $220)
This Martian meteorite just got dubbed a Rosetta Stone. Heres why.
One meteorite from Mars adds weight to the expression "no stone left unturned."
Yang Liu, a geologist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, almost didn't heed that wisdom when she nearly declined the chance to study the rock. It looked like the most common type of Martian meteorite found on Earth. But something about its texture and minerals made her take a look.
In hindsight, Liu is glad she did. The space rock, known as Teghaza 001, appears to be a piece of Mars that formed more than 4.1 billion years ago, making it one of the oldest Martian meteorites scientists have ever seen.
"This meteorite is really unique," said Liu, the lead author of the findings, in a statement. "One of the paper's reviewers called it a Rosetta Stone for Mars."
The meteorite, found in the Sahara Desert in 2022, preserves a snapshot of Mars as it looked more than 4 billion years ago, perhaps less than 500 million years after the planet formed. Even then, the water locked inside its minerals had already lost much of its lighter hydrogen to space. That chemical fingerprint shows the Red Planet began losing its water almost from the word "go." The discovery provides context for any debate about life on early Mars: Whatever biology that might have existed, even early on, probably faced a world already drying out.
SEE ALSO: NASA's Voyager 1 gives mission control another moment of panicEvery day, about 48.5 tons of space rock and dust strike Earth's atmosphere, according to NASA. Most of it burns up on the way down, and much of what survives sinks into the oceans, which cover more than 70 percent of the planet. People have found more than 82,000 meteorites, but only about half of one percent of them came from Mars.
Nearly every known Martian meteorite formed from magma, or molten rock, and most of them belong to three main families: shergottites, nakhlites, and chassignites. All three formed less than 2.4 billion years ago.
A close-up look at a slice extracted from the Martian meteorite, Teghaza 001. Credit: NASA / JPL-CaltechThe nakhlites and chassignites seem closely related through a process called fractional crystallization. As magma cools, certain minerals harden first and separate out, which changes the chemistry of the remaining liquid. Scientists think both groups formed in the same volcanic system.
But Teghaza 001 doesn't fit any of these groups. Its minerals and chemistry set it apart from every other Martian meteorite. The study appears in the journal Science.
"This is really our first piece of Martian crust from a part of Mars we've never had a sample of before," said Lee Saper, a co-author now based at NASA's Ames Research Center in California.
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Clues in the rock's minerals point to a busy water cycle on early Mars, with water moving between rock, ground, and air. The minerals reveal two sources: water that rose from deep inside the planet, and surface water that had already lost much of its lighter hydrogen to space.
Scientists use geological clues to piece together ancient Mars' past water history. Credit: NASA illustrationGeologists can tell the two apart because hydrogen comes in a normal form and a heavier form called deuterium. Because the lighter form escapes into space more easily, any water left behind gets richer in deuterium over time. The surface water in Teghaza 001 carries extra deuterium.
From about 4.1 to 3.7 billion years ago, Mars had a fairly dry climate, but one that could have still allowed liquid water on the surface at times, possibly enabling life. Scientists believe the Red Planet's surface eventually dried out to roughly today's barren state less than 3 billion years ago.
Thanks to Mars' lack of shifting tectonic plates, its ground maintains a record of more than 4 billion years of history. That allows scientists to estimate the ages of different parts of the planet's surface by counting craters: the older the region, the more battle scars it should have.
Based on the specimen's minerals and chemistry, scientists trace the rock to one of a handful of locations in Mars' southern highlands. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / USGSThe mix of minerals matches what NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter has seen in the heavily pocked southern highlands of Mars. Scientists pinpointed 13 places on Mars whose minerals and chemistry are consistent with the meteorite.
To date Teghaza 001, scientists used several methods, including one cutting-edge technique that tracks radioactive rubidium, said Francois Tissot, a Caltech scientist and co-author. The rubidium slowly transforms into strontium at a steady rate; thus, the amount of the latter within a sample stands in for a clock.
"Our hope is to pave the way for dating even more Martian meteorites," Tissot said in a statement, "or samples returned from other planets, their moons, and asteroids."
How to watch South Carolina vs. Oklahoma online for free
Neither the South Carolina Gamecocks nor the Oklahoma Sooners are in the college football AP rankings, but they're playing competitive football and are evenly matched in the Southeastern Conference. Both teams are 4-3 overall, though the Sooners have the edge in conference play.
It's worth watching for the battle of quarterbacks, with the Gamecocks' LaNorris Sellers and the Sooners' John Mateer both playing some excellent football.
If you want to watch South Carolina vs. Oklahoma for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.
When is South Carolina vs. Oklahoma?South Carolina vs. Oklahoma start at 4.15 p.m. ET on Oct. 31. This game takes place at the Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma.
South Carolina vs. Oklahoma is broadcast on SECN.
How to watch college football in 2026Fans can live stream college football on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.
ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $31.99/month for 1 year Shop NowChannels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNX
ESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $31.99 per month, but for an extra $4 per month you can secure a plan that also includes Disney+ and Hulu.
Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99/year Shop NowChannels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten Network
Fox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $38.89 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a three-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.
FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CW
FuboTV offers more than 250 live TV channels and lets you watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a five-day free trial period.
Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters with a trial before you make any commitment.
Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $99.99/month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CW
Hulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $99.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). Plus, the first month will only cost $49.99.
The included ESPN+ access provides bonus coverage of even more college football games, on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.
Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $60.99/month Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network
Sling is a comprehensive sports streaming service that offers a wide range of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue package gives you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, plus ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.
YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop NowChannels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CW
YouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.
How to watch South Carolina vs. Oklahoma from anywhere in the worldIf you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.
Live stream South Carolina vs. Oklahoma from anywhere in the world 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 U.S.
Sign in to your favorite streaming service
Watch South Carolina vs. Oklahoma from anywhere in the world
ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
Servers in 105 countries, including the U.S.
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 $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 usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get DealNinja’s new EverSear cookware wants to replace your HexClad for way less — where to buy
TL;DR: Ninja’s new EverSear hybrid cookware officially launches Nov. 5, blending tri-ply stainless steel searing with nontoxic ceramic nonstick. It promises higher durability than HexClad at a friendlier price.
Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja EverSear $429.99 at AmazonShop Now at Amazon
Hybrid pans are everywhere on food feeds for good reason: you get a hard sear on a steak without spending your night scrubbing the pan. But dropping hundreds on a HexClad set is a tough pill to swallow, which is why Ninja is launching its own budget-friendly rival.
Launching on Nov. 5, the brand’s new EverSear lineup takes direct aim at the luxury hybrid space. The goal here is simple: deliver the high-heat browning power of tri-ply stainless steel, along with the slide-around ease of nonstick, while keeping the price point far more accessible than HexClad's.
SEE ALSO: The coolest kitchen gear and gadgets we'll always recommendInstead of standard nonstick chemicals, Ninja’s DuraClad tech pairs tri-ply stainless steel with nontoxic ceramic. There's zero PFAS, PTFE, PFOA, lead, or cadmium involved, so you can crank up the burner without stressing over harsh fumes. EverSear also claims a coating that’s 4x more durable, 6x more scratch-resistant, and 7x more scrub-resistant than HexClad.
Beyond high-heat searing, the design handles practical everyday cooking just as well. The pans move seamlessly from gas, electric, ceramic, or induction stovetops straight into an oven, handling heat up to 550°F on their own or 450°F with the glass lids on.
The interior is also rivet-free, leaving a smooth surface so scrambled eggs and thick sauces won't get trapped around the handle mounts. When you're done, the entire set is dishwasher-safe, and built-in nesting guides keep the pans and stackable glass lids from scratching each other inside crowded cabinets.
The 10-piece set lineupFor a complete overhaul, Ninja's 10-piece set features:
8-inch fry pan with matching glass lid
10.25-inch fry pan
3-quart sauté pan with matching glass lid
2.5-quart saucepan with matching glass lid
6-quart stockpot with matching glass lid
Matching spatula
The Ninja EverSear collection officially goes on sale Nov. 5 across Ninja's online store and retailers like Amazon. If you've been waiting for a durable hybrid pan set that can sear like stainless steel without the luxury price tag, this might be the easiest kitchen upgrade of the season.
Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen review: Duncan Sheiks musical adaptation gets kink right, but falters elsewhere
Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen is a tale of sex, love, loss, and perseverance. And ahead of the show's Off-Broadway debut on Oct. 15, 2026, the cast and crew of this production were hit with the loss of Duncan Sheik, who wrote the music and lyrics for this musical. The American singer/songwriter, who previously wrote the music for Spring Awakening, died one week before his new musical began preview performances. And the loss of him certainly hangs over the production for fans.
However, the message of this musical might well be a balm for all those who grieve, be it the loss of a great love or the death of a great musician.
Of course, set mostly in a brothel, where Parisian sex workers cater to a variety of kinky clientele, there's much more than heartache here. Busting with verve, sex appeal, and cheeky humor, Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen is a downtown show well worth its ticket price. Set on a round stage, with mirrored satellite posts for added flair, director/choreographer Rob Ashford creates an immersive theatrical experience that welcomes audiences into the hot and vibrant world of a brothel known as the Night Egg.
What's Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen about? Cory Jeacoma in "Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen." Credit: Andy HendersonThis English-language musical is based on the Japanese manga series of the same name, written and illustrated by Moyoco Anno. While Sheik wrote the music and lyrics, Leah Nanako Winkler wrote the musical's book. Its story centers on a young French sex worker named Colette (Sophia Anne Caruso), who romanticizes the brothel she calls home.
This comes as a surprise to a Japanese tourist named Sakae (Marc Delacruz), who fancies himself a writer. Eager to exploit what he assumes will be the squalid details of her life, he pays Colette to write her thoughts in a journal, which he wants to turn into a novel of his own. Amused by the idea, Colette initially believes she's writing a love story. She paints fond portraits of the other girls and her madame (Jenny Powers), and speaks with compassion for the men who come to act out their fantasies. But her greatest passion is for her roguish beau, Leon (Cory Jeacoma).
They fell in love in a humble farming village, but dreamed of more. He was to be a great artist, and she to be his muse and wife. But the reality is he's become a degenerate gambler who's pushed her into prostitution, and she can't see all the ways he takes advantage of her big heart. No matter how many of her friends tell her in song ("Obvious")! But Colette's vision of love will be shattered when Leon falls for Nana (Nkeki Obi-Melekwe), an escort with high class and a price to match.
Sophia Anne Caruso shines in Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen; Nkeki Obi-Melekwe dazzles. Sophia Anne Caruso as Colette in "Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen." Credit: Andy HendersonWith her blunt bob, Colette exudes joy, sex appeal, and naivete, and so feels very reminiscent of Cabaret's Sally Bowles. However, she is the hero here, and as such, she gets more of a chance to grapple with the contradictions around her. Her voice swerves from delicate to belting without quaver, terrifically building Colette's emotional journey through tone.
Petite in frame, Caruso displays the fragility of this young woman without even trying. When she flings herself upon a strong and towering Jeacoma for a fervent embrace, he lifts her as if she's as light as a feather.
Later, her size and strength of voice comes into play in the choreography of "Immured," when a sensational staging detail places Colette on a park bench that elevates from the stage, high above the audience. Her feelings essentially allow her to fly above the audience. And in a brilliant move, the slats of the bench create striped shadows that recall the harsh contrast lighting of noir, reflecting a gripping low point for her character.
Nkeki Obi-Melekwe as Nana in "Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen." Credit: Andy HendersonAnd Caruso is surrounded by a sensational supporting cast. Jeacoma is infuriating yet undeniably sexy as the cad Leon. Powers is curious and compelling as the mysterious Madame, while Leanne Antonio, Elsa Keefe, and Jaedynn Latter are, in turn, stirring and funny as her colleagues. But Obi-Melekwe is a showstopper as Nana, a terrific foil to Colette.
Where the waif heroine imagines sex work as a place to impactfully employ her compassion and joie de vivre, Nana knows the profession's darker side, and it has hardened her. Where Colette is girlish, naive, and carefree, Nana is mature, manipulative, and complex in a way few characters here are allowed to be. At first, she's a rival, but through her song "On Any Given Night," she becomes an unexpected path forward for Colette. In some actresses' hands, Nana might come off a bit baffling or ambiguous. But Obi-Melekwe infuses every strut and song lyric with an emotional depth that speaks to experiences the musical doesn't dare dive into.
Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen doesn't go dark enough. Cory Jeacoma and Sophia Anne Caruso as Leon and Colette in "Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen." Credit: Andy HendersonAs you might expect, Colette's cheery vision of her situation is eventually tarnished. However, while this musical production is gleeful about getting kinky onstage, with some cheeky nudity, simulated sex positions, and lurid scenarios playing out, it refuses to show the dark side of the Night Egg. Through Carmen, Colette learns the horrors that await a sex worker who can't play nice anymore. But the show allows only a glancing look at this harrowing element.
Now, because the story is from Colette's perspective, you could argue this light touch on such darkness is intentional. But a similarly shallow approach is offered to her friends, who become caricatures — the lesbian bestie fawning over a straight girl, the hardened working girl, and the crazy one. This too might be excused by Colette's need to believe everything around her is good or at least okay. However, as the third act involves a lot of characters declaring her an insightful writer, these flimsy depictions become a problem, which is echoed in Sheik's music. While playful and fun in a '90s club way, the lyrics reflect this same surface-level awareness of the world, even through the finale.
Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen does right by kink (mostly). Austin Lesch as Emile in "Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen." Credit: Andy HendersonSurprisingly, while the girls around Colette get little love in terms of complexity, the amorous gentlemen get plenty. One song number introduces a male-presenting mustachioed client named Willy (Caleb Marshall), who desires to be shaved while being regarded as a naughty lamb. The women surround him dressed as shepherdesses, and gamely play along, gleefully scolding Willy while caressing those legs with a straight razor. After the scene concludes, Colette observes that Willy must go home and play the man that the family demands. But she addresses Willy with feminine pronouns, recognizing the trans identity this client only feels comfortable revealing in the Night Egg.
Other scenes involve Ulysse (Michael Starr), a man who wishes to be seen and treated as a dog; Emile (Austin Lesch), who yearns to play voyeur as female clowns disrobe; and Henry (Michael Everett), who likes to dress as a bird during sex. In most of these scenarios, the sex scene is played with joy, embracing the desire of the client without judgment. And in some cases, the client will share an intellectual or psychological intimacy with Colette, offering life advice or observation with matched compassion. The actors in these scenes shed not only their clothes, but also the toxic masculinity that would shove them into a narrow box of sexual acceptability.
"Your Perversion is Our Pleasure" performed in "Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen." Credit: Andy HendersonExcept for Henry. His number ("Your Perversion is Our Pleasure") is at the start of the show, and in a flustering choice, Colette writes off his desires as "he wants to fuck birds."
However, even with these fumbles, Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen is a terrific experience. The scenic design by Scott Pask is minimal, relying on a bench here and a bed there, but used impactfully. The satellite platforms that flank the stage allow for the ensemble to enhance a moment through dance, reaction, or lurid provocation. Then, the lighting design of Brian Tovar smoothly accents mood with color and shadow. The costume designs by Catherine Zuber build character in an instant, expressing class or lack thereof, and giving the suggestion of nudity in playful ways, yet not shying away from the titillation of a well-displayed rear.
All this craftsmanship combined with a crackling cast makes for an Off-Broadway show that's saucy fun and solidly moving.
Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen is now playing through Jan. 3, 2027.
Block ads on 9 devices for life for $14.97
TL;DR: Block ads and trackers on up to nine devices with an AdGuard lifetime subscription, just $14.97 (reg. $169.99) through Nov. 1.
Opens in a new window Credit: AdGuard AdGuard Family Plan: Lifetime Subscription $14.97$169.99 Save $155.02 Get Deal
Pop-ups, video ads, and trackers show up on every screen in a household, from a parent’s laptop to a kid’s tablet. Paying for ad blocking on each of those devices every year works, but it’s expensive. Instead, try AdGuard, an ad blocker that includes privacy tools and parental controls. A Family lifetime subscription is on sale for $14.97 (reg. $169.99).
AdGuard blocks banners, pop-ups, and video ads on every website you visit, so pages load without the clutter. Trackers and activity analyzers are blocked too, which keeps more of your browsing data away from advertisers.
Parental controls are the main reason to pick the Family Plan. Parents can restrict access to adult and inappropriate content on a child’s device, and AdGuard may also help protect everyone in the house from phishing sites and malware. Device count is the other big difference. AdGuard’s Personal Plan works on three devices, while the Family Plan works on up to nine, enough for several phones, tablets, and computers.
This deal is for new AdGuard users only, so existing customers can’t apply it to an account they already have. You’ll also need to redeem your code within 30 days of purchase. After that, you can use the internet freely without worrying that one random misclick will lead you to some sketchy page.
Stop paying every year to block ads on every device in your house.
Through Nov. 1 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can get an AdGuard Family Plan lifetime subscription on sale for $14.97.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
Pay $60 and get five years of self-paced piano lessons
TL;DR: Master the piano at home with this 5-year subscription to flowkey Piano Learning App, on sale now for just $59.97 (reg. $899) until Nov. 1.
Opens in a new window Credit: Flowkey flowkey Piano Learning App: Classic Plan (5-Year Subscription) $59.97$899 Save $839.03 Get Deal
Everyone has at least one hobby they’ve been meaning to pick up — but finding the time and money to fit in lessons is a different story. The flowkey Piano Learning App makes learning an instrument a realistic goal in today’s busy world by letting you learn on your own schedule, right from your smartphone.
Right now, you can secure a 5-year subscription to flowkey Piano Learning App for only $59.97 until Nov. 1.
Our smartphones don’t have to be total time-wasters where you doomscroll and avoid responsibilities. The flowkey Piano Learning App lets you master piano right on your device, no matter what skill level you’re currently at.
With flowkey, you pick the time and place for your piano lessons, working through lessons ranging from beginner to intermediate to advanced and pro. The best part? You only pay once and get access to unlimited lessons for five years.
AI-powered instruction gives you real-time feedback as you go, listening as you play. There are also helpful features like a loop function that repeats tough sections until you master them, and a wait mode that only lets you progress after playing the right notes.
There’s a hand selection option to isolate your left and right hands and play separately. Want to slow things down? Slow motion mode slows down playback so you can take your time learning.
flowkey’s interactive lessons also make sure you’re learning chords and music theory as you go. You’ll also have access to over 1,000 classical and public-domain songs for practice, including works by Bach and Beethoven.
Get a 5-year subscription to flowkey Piano Learning App for only $59.97 (reg. $899) until Nov. 1.
StackSocial prices subject to change.
How to date anonymously in 2026: Our guide to Pures privacy tools
Online privacy is getting harder and harder to come by, and that's perhaps especially true in the world of online dating. Whether apps are collecting your data to feed you personalized ads or carelessly handling your personal information, resulting in damaging leaks, the end result is the same: less privacy for you.
If you want to date or hook up anonymously in 2026, there's one app that stands above the competition: Pure. It gives its users greater peace of mind and much more control over what personal information they share, both with the app and with other users.
Opens in a new window Credit: Pure Pure Learn MoreHere are five key features that make Pure the standout option for anonymous dating in 2026:
Minimal account creation requirementsThe first hurdle to anonymity in online dating comes long before you've ever swiped on a profile or talked to a match. Account creation often asks a great deal from would-be users, from phone numbers and email addresses to birthdays and education history, but even when that data isn't public-facing, the mere fact that it exists on a server somewhere means you're vulnerable to a data leak.
Pure takes a minimalist approach to account creation, allowing you to sign up with minimal information about yourself (age and sexual orientation, plus turn-ons/kinks), or expedite the process by signing in with a Google, Facebook, or Apple account.
Dating ads rather than profilesAnother major innovation of Pure, setting it apart from its competitors, is its eschewal of traditional dating profiles. Instead of having a permanent, public-facing dating profile with the usual information and photos, users post "ads" that disappear after a set amount of time. If someone clicks your ad, they get temporary viewing access to your profile, which may include photos but doesn't require them.
In other words, you can curate what people see, and when they can see it, so nobody has 24/7 access to your photos or profile details. While this isn't particularly useful on a normal dating app, it makes a ton of sense on a hookup app, where you may be in the mood for some short-term fun late on a Friday night but not in the middle of the day on a Tuesday.
From a privacy perspective, the ads are also very customizable. For example, you can choose to share your age in the ad, or choose not to, just as you can choose to share your location (and therefore your distance from potential matches) or choose not to. You can include a photo if you like, but photos are optional, and if you spend any amount of time using the app, you'll discover all kinds of novel ways people use anonymous photos to convey their hookup interests, from suggestive foot pictures to darkened silhouettes of bodies or faces.
Self-deleting chat logsPure's banner feature is its self-deleting chat history. By default, every communication on the app is set to self-delete after 24 hours, which not only erases any evidence of the conversation but also encourages people to actually meet up in person. From a hookup perspective, Pure incentivizes real-world meetups rather than never-ending online back-and-forth.
There's a catch, though: if both parties agree to pause the timer, the self-deleting function can be turned off, so if you do happen to find a spark with someone and don't want it to be short-lived, Pure allows you to extend the conversation and save its history, provided you both agree to it.
You can also manually delete the chat history, either by leaving the chat (Pure will automatically erase the logs), blocking the person you were talking to or choosing the "Clear history" option in the chat menu, which not only deletes the chat log from your end but from your partner's end as well. You should also know that, once a chat history has been deleted from your phone, it is also deleted from Pure's servers, so it's gone for good.
Screenshot blockingBecause Pure is a hookup app, it's pretty common for users to exchange personal photos, often suggestive or nude ones, but even here, Pure has upped the safety factor by incorporating screenshot blocking and notifications. Per their FAQ: "Photos, videos and chats cannot be copied, saved or screenshotted. You will receive a notification that the chat partner tried to take a screenshot."
For technical reasons, though, it should be noted that it's still possible for another person to capture a screenshot of anything you send them using third-party software or a separate camera, so you still have to be careful about what you choose to share and who you choose to share it with, but Pure goes farther than most dating apps by not only actively discouraging the practice of screenshotting but making it a bannable offense ("We will block your account forever").
Taking things even further, Pure allows users to send self-destructing photos and videos, so you can tease or titillate with greater peace of mind.
Incognito modeIf you're really privacy-conscious, you can also opt to browse Pure in Incognito mode, which makes it impossible for other users to know when you're online and even disables read receipts, so you can read chat messages from other users without them knowing you have read them.
There are two catches, though: Incognito mode is available only to paying users, and you're allowed up to 24 hours of incognito browsing at a time, so you do have to budget this time carefully.
How to protect yourself from falling for a deepfake
Mitch McConnell's hospital jeans were real. But the image of a crying Nekima Levy Armstrong, an ICE protestor held up as a symbol of "far-left agitators" by the Trump administration, was faked.
President Trump's recent outing with Mike Tyson was legitimate. The viral photo of an adulterous Georgia city mayor was not.
In the grand scheme of things, it has never been easy to detect AI-generated content. But it used to have its tells: a few extra fingers, or a strange texture, or an uncanny gaze.
Now, "those tells are mostly gone, and whatever replaces them will be gone in a year too," said Marijus Briedis, chief technology officer at online security company NordVPN. "Any guide built on visual artifacts has a short shelf life."
The risk of spreading misinformation is not the only reason for questioning what you see and hear online. Digital scams, including deepfakes, led to losses of over $148 billion in 2025, an increase of more than 25 percent from the year before.
So if the visual Turing Test isn't the failsafe against fraud, scams, and manipulation we once thought it was, what do we do? We focus on the human things we can vet: Our emotions, our brains, and the digital tools available to us.
Deepfake or real? Check the source, not the content.Instead of trying to spot AI mistakes, users are now encouraged by cybersecurity experts to verify sources rather than content.
When it comes to video, don't hunt for glitches, which are being patched out of generative models fast, explains Roei Sherman, senior director of research at cloud security firm Mitiga. "Every detection tip we publish eventually becomes a line in someone's prompt."
Instead, try to find the larger context from which it originates. If you see a clip of a political candidate making rounds, look for the full speech or interview. Find broader news coverage of the event, from multiple outlets.
"Short clips cut out of context are where most of the manipulation lives," Sherman said.
Sourcing images may be trickier without robust authentication systems in place. While a reverse image search on Google can still prove helpful, the search engine's new AI features may churn out their own misinformation or reaffirm the original hoax, explained Sofia Rubinson, senior editor at misinformation watchdog NewsGuard.
"Fact-checkers used to depend on traditional search platforms like Google to help research the origins of photos and videos," she told Mashable, "but at NewsGuard we’ve found that the AI-powered Google Search often misattributes imagery as depicting what misinformers claim."
And now there's a chance that the source you trace an image or video to looks completely legit, even if it's not.
When evaluating the source itself, Briedis recommends asking questions such as:
Has this account existed for more than a month?
Does this information appear anywhere else, from anyone with a familiar, credible name attached?
Is this person asking me to act right now, and, if so, why?
"None of that requires you to analyze a pixel or a waveform," he explained. "That is exactly why it still works."
Is it an AI hoax? Think logically.Go with your gut, experts told Mashable.
Always consider plausibility. How likely is it that this could happen? If it's an account that appears to be owned by a public figure, would this person likely say such a thing on a public platform?
Rubinson emphasizes the importance of seeing multiple angles of an event or crisis before deciding it's legitimate. "Keep an eye out for corroborating information," she urges.
And the logic test doesn't just apply to fantastically novel events, like those bunnies hopping on a trampoline. A lot of social media is fake, said Rubinson, and incendiary comments from politicians or controversial actions from celebrities deserve to be double-checked — even if a lot of them turn out to be true.
Am I being ragebaited? Monitor your reaction.It's also essential that you remain aware of how the image or video makes you feel, Sherman says.
If you have a visceral response to a post — maybe it enrages you or stirs a sense of desperation to engage — it may be doing that on purpose.
"If you see one wild video appearing repeatedly in your feed that seems designed to evoke an emotional response, there’s reason to be suspicious," Rubinson said.
Can I use detection tools? Yes, but with caution.So you've taken a good look at the post itself, checked its sources, and still aren't sure? Turn to the professionals.
Keep up with organizations tracking viral deepfakes. Newsguard, for example, publishes an AI monitor and a newsletter on trending deepfakes and misinformation. Cybersecurity company McAfee flags popular AI-powered scams on its AI news blog. Deepfake detector company AI or Not maintains a searchable database of known deepfakes and manipulated images.
As federal oversight lags, state-level regulation and industry-wide content provenance measures are also aiding the battle against deepfakes. And cybersecurity experts are building increasingly robust countermeasures to combat deepfakes, including advancements to AI deepfake detectors.
But no detection tool is reliable enough to issue a definitive verdict on whether or not something is AI. If you're still not certain an image is real, don't share it, experts urged.
"What [detection tools] are good for is the moment something feels off," Briedis said. "The tool agrees with you, and now you go and verify it properly."
Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.
Is AdultFriendFinder legit? Only if you can follow these 4 rules.
There's always a nervousness when signing up for a new dating site. If you're not that tech-savvy, it can be a daunting thing to do. Especially on a site such as AdultFriendFinder, which has been around for so long (it's one of the true OGs of online dating). The site comes across as dated and counterintuitive, with a myriad of menus and submenus to navigate. It's easy to assume it's unsafe or just too difficult to use. But trust us when we say it's worth the effort due to its sizable community of singles and non-monogamous users looking for steamy fun.
Making the most of AFF means a certain amount of trial and error, or at least some guidance from someone with an intimate knowledge of the spicy hookup platform.
We've come to the rescue by outlining four essential tips to get you started on AFF and help you connect with like-minded people for kink-based fun.
We also recommend keeping an open mind when delving into AFF. If you charge in with a narrow idea of what it is you want, you'll almost certainly be disappointed. But if you start searching AFF with an open-minded curiosity and let yourself just go along for the ride, you might even discover new things about yourself — and find never-before-explored pleasure points — while you have some fun.
Opens in a new window Credit: AdultFriendFinder AdultFriendFinder Learn MoreHere are four essential steps for getting the most out of your AdultFriendFinder experience:
Fill out your full AFF profileSure, this is a given on any online dating service, but it’s particularly important on AFF because the site doesn’t rely on the carousel-style, swipe-left formula of dating profiles that you get on other apps. With AFF, you specify everything from your age and gender to your sexuality and personal kinks. All of this makes it easier for potential connections to find you in their searches. In other words, the more you fill out, the easier it is for someone else to find you; the less you fill out, the harder it is.
We recommend doing this even if your personal kink list is fairly conventional, and even more so if it leans towards the exotic. Trust us when we say there are people out there looking for the very same experience, so it's worth taking the time to be specific and detailed. It will pay off in the end.
SEE ALSO: Is Hinge really 'designed to be deleted'? I tested it to find out.Also, don’t sleep on the importance of videos. Unlike many dating sites that only have profile pictures, AFF allows you to upload short videos to your profile. It's a super helpful way of showing other users that you’re an actual human being — as opposed to a bot, of which you'll find many on AFF — and it helps you show off a little personality in the process. Just be wary of posting nude content upfront in your profile. It's perfectly within the rules of AFF — the site's culture encourages it, in fact — but putting that kind of content online carries privacy risks.
Verify your AFF account as soon as possibleAdultFriendFinder throws up very few barriers when you're creating your account. That makes it very easy for anyone to join, but it also means there is a huge amount of spam and bots clogging up the platform. To combat this, they’ve also created a profile verification system using the Confirm ID service.
It requires you to share your government ID for cast-iron verification, but the benefits to your profile will give you major peace of mind. It means photo authentication, age confirmation, and location verification, all of which help others trust that your profile is authentic. When the process is complete, you'll see a blue checkmark beneath your profile photo, just to the right of your username, which helps people identify your profile at a glance and boosts your visibility in search results, as search results prioritize verified users.
Be selective with your search criteriaIf you use the site’s search function, you’ll find that you can be extremely specific and selective. And if you know exactly who and what you want, by all means, narrow your search, but if you’re on AFF to be surprised, it’s also worth being less selective from time to time.
For example, if you know you want an in-person date for next week, it obviously makes sense to narrow your location search to people who live near you. But what if you don’t know exactly what you want, or if you’re open to a sultry chat with a stranger half a world away? In that case, distance is irrelevant, and you should consider turning that filter off.
SEE ALSO: All your Tinder questions, answeredOn the other hand, there are quite a few filters that are turned off by default that we actually recommend you turn on. For example, the default profile filter shows you all people who have bothered to upload photos, but while that’s a good start, it’s not enough to help you wade through the huge number of users. We strongly recommend narrowing it down to Verified/Confirmed users, since those people all proved their identity the same way you did (see above). That way, you can trust that your search results and potential connections are 100 percent legit. It's another means of filtering out the spam.
Another useful filter is the Last Visit, which by default is set to "All." We recommend specifying accounts that have been active within the last month. That's because lots of people sign up to AFF then never bother checking back in. Other users go inactive for weeks or even months at a time. If you stick with the default "All" setting, you risk messaging accounts that you might never get a reply from.
Explore the live-chat communitiesAdultFriendFinder isn’t a traditional dating website, so don't use it like one. The search-and-swipe dating app method is tried and true, but it’s also a bit played out, and one of AFF’s biggest strengths is its larger community offerings. There's more to it than swiping — or should we say swinging? — left or right.
There are lots of forums to explore, all based around common interests (though you should know that some of these interests — or kinks — are not so common), or you can venture into a user’s livestream and interact with them and others there. AFF even has a dedicated Stories section, where users can share their memories or try their hand at writing erotica. That's all well and good for anyone with a knack for the written word, but if you're more visual, you can set up a webcam stream and invite others to tune in.
For all of the above, AFF tracks not only which stories/streams/group chats are new but also which are trending, making it very easy to jump into a popular discussion or keep up with the latest site news.
Upgrade your AFF membership tierAs with other dating sites and apps, you only get the most out of AFF when you sign up for a paid membership. It is entirely possible to use AFF and interact without handing over your credit card information, but the site’s best features and functions are paywalled. And it has to be said that the advantages — visibility, communication options, and site functionality are all just too good to ignore.
Gold and VIP members receive special icons on their profiles, and these profiles are given priority in every search, regardless of the criteria. Because there are thousands of potential profile options for almost every search criterion that isn’t location-based, it’s very difficult to stand out from the crowd on AFF as a free user.
Additionally, if you fork out for the upgraded VIP membership, you’ll unlock an entire section dedicated exclusively to VIPs. It's the dating site equivalent of entering the velvet-roped area of a night club; you'll find the most glamorous people hiding there. VIP members even get additional points to spend on digital gifts or lavish on live streamers who catch your eye. This is another great way of standing out from the crowd.
The learning curve on AdultFriendFinder is steeper than most other dating sites, and much steeper than most dating apps, but if you follow the above tips and you're willing to experiment, you’ll encounter more than a few fun and sexy surprises along the way.
