Blogroll

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Monday, November 4, 2024:

AcrossComedy club hosts, for short

• The answer is MCs.

Make very happy

• The answer is Elate.

Moving day sticker

• The answer is Label.

With 5-Down, group loaded with superstars

• The answer is Dream.

The third and fourth wrong guesses in hangman, maybe

• The answer is Arms.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for November 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for November 4 DownVulcan mind ___ (Spock specialty)

• The answer is Meld.

Red Cross founder Barton

• The answer is Clara.

Sword for a pirate

• The answer is Saber.

See 8-Across

• The answer is Team.

Stately shade trees

• The answer is Elms.

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

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

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

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

John Oliver has shared his final thoughts ahead of the U.S. 2024 election.

SAVE $22: As of Nov. 4, the Amazon Echo Pop is on sale for $17.99. That's a 55% discount off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Pop $17.99 at Amazon
$39.99 Save $22.00 Get Deal

The Echo Pop is a handy and compact Alexa device, and a great edition to any smart home. And as of Nov. 4, you can get it at Amazon for its lowest price in months, now down to $17.99. It's available in a range of colors, all at this discounted price. Choose from charcoal, glacier white, lavender bloom, and midnight teal.

With Alexa built-in, you can control music, audiobooks, and podcasts from services like Amazon Music, Spotify, and Apple Music. It also doubles as a smart home hub, so you can use voice control for compatible devices like lights and plugs. You can even ask it to set timers, check the weather, read you the news, and order items from your Amazon account.

SEE ALSO: Amazon has apparently delayed the AI-powered Alexa to 2025

With it's small and nifty size, the Echo Pop is perfect for small spaces such as bedrooms. And it can be easily hidden behind pictures or ornaments, so it won't ruin your home aesthetics. It's also made with eco-friendly materials, so it's both functional and sustainable.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so act fast so you don't miss out.

SAVE $40: As of Nov. 4, the Samsung Galaxy Buds are on sale at Amazon for $59.99. That's a 40% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Buds FE $59.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal

If you're looking to upgrade your earbuds, Amazon has an incredible deal on the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE. As of Nov. 4, you can upgrade to these earbuds for just $59.99. Not only are you saving $40, but this is their lowest-ever price at Amazon, so you're really getting a bargain.

The new wing-tip design ensures a secure, comfortable fit in your ear. This also aids the Active Noise Cancellation which helps you focus on the sounds you want to hear, and block out what you don't.

SEE ALSO: The Bose QuietComfort earbuds are a decent budget option from the premium brand

The earbuds are easily paired with other Galaxy devices and also feature Auto Switch, automatically transitioning between your Galaxy devices. The Galaxy Buds FE are also designed with user-friendly tap controls that make it easy to skip songs and adjust the volume without having to pick up your phone. The built-in voice assistant also gives you hands-free controls, letting you make calls, check the weather, and even order coffee just by speaking commands into your earbuds.

If you ever misplace them, the SmartThings Find feature helps you track down your buds by showing their last known location on a map. Additionally, Lost Mode can display a message to anyone who finds them, increasing your chances of getting them back.

This is a limited-time deal at Amazon, so act quick to avoid missing out.

SAVE 50%: As of Nov. 4, the Dyson Digital Slim Cordless Vacuum is on sale for $249.99 at Amazon, half off its usual $499.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Digital Slim £249.99 at Amazon
£499.99 Save £250.00 Get Deal

Who says powerful vacuums have to be heavy? The Dyson Digital Slim packs all the suction power you’d expect from Dyson into a sleek, 4.4-pound frame that's 33% lighter than the Dyson V11. Now, you can quickly work on messes without breaking a sweat (or your budget) thanks to this limited-time 50% discount.

Despite its lightweight build, the Digital Slim doesn’t compromise on features. With up to 40 minutes of fade-free suction, it has plenty of battery life to tackle your home’s floors, furniture, and even your car. Three cleaning modes let you adjust the power for different surfaces, while an LCD screen shows battery life, power mode, and maintenance alerts, keeping you in control every step of the way.

SEE ALSO: Save $170 on this space-saving vacuum from Dyson

The motorbar cleaner head is designed for all floor types, so it’s equally suitable for carpets and hardwood at home. It even de-tangles long hair and pet fur as it goes, a must-have feature if you’re tired of prying out clumps from your vacuum. When you need more precision, it converts to a handheld with the included crevice and combination tools. It is perfect for getting into those hard-to-reach spots in your car or between couch cushions.

Dyson’s advanced filtration system traps 99.99% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, so you’re not just cleaning floors but improving your air quality too. Made with durable, lightweight materials, the Digital Slim is built to last. Dyson backs it with a two-year warranty and lifetime support.

At $249.99, the Dyson Digital Slim is a steal. It’s powerful, versatile, and ready to clean anywhere, high or low. Snap up this deal while you can, and give yourself the gift of easy, cordless cleaning. Because vacuuming doesn’t have to be a workout, right?

SAVE $30: As of Nov. 4, the JBL Clip 5 is on sale for $49.95 at Amazon, saving you 38% off the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Clip 5 $49.95 at Amazon
$79.95 Save $30.00 Get Deal

If you're looking for a robust Bluetooth speaker for on the go listening, we've found an incredible deal for under $50.

As of Nov. 4, the JBL Clip 5 is on sale at Amazon for $49.95, the lowest it has been priced since it's release this summer. This deal is available in all color options, including purple, pink, squad, white, and sand.

SEE ALSO: The best speakers for top tech and amazing audio

This speaker may be small, but it packs a serious audio punch. The powerful driver and passive radiator give you a bigger, better and of course, louder JBL Pro Sound. The handy clip design makes this speaker perfect for listening on the go. Simply clip it onto your backpack, belt loop, or whatever you want and make the most of the 12-hour battery life.

It's also IP67-rated, meaning it’s both waterproof and dustproof, so it’s built to handle outdoor adventures and beach days. Plus, with JBL’s Auracast feature, you can connect multiple JBL speakers to expand your sound for an even bigger, more immersive listening experience — the JBL Clip 5 is the first JBL device with this feature.

Head to Amazon to grab this deal.

SAVE $100: As of Nov. 4, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are on sale for $329 at Amazon, a 23% saving on list price, and the lowest they've ever been priced.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones $329.00 at Amazon
$429.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal

If you're looking for a new pair of headphones that are comfortable, high-quality, and with noise cancellation, why not try a pair that our reviewer called, the "comfiest headphones ever"? And as of Nov. 4, you can treat yourself to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones for less at Amazon. Reduced by $100, they are now priced at $329. This is also the lowest they have ever been priced at Amazon.

Comfort is at the forefront of this design, according to our review, so these truly live up to their name. But the comfort of the cushioning isn't the only benefit of the thick, plush design — it also works to block out your surroundings with active noise cancellation.

SEE ALSO: Snag a new Bose speaker or headphones for up to 40% off at Amazon now

With three different modes, Quiet, Aware, and Immersion, they offer flexible noise cancellation options to suit different environments, ensuring distraction-free listening or situational awareness as needed. For phone calls and voice notes, the built-in microphones also filter out background noise.

The headphones connect via Bluetooth 5.3, and can give you a stable connection up to 30 feet from your device, and the SimpleSync feature lets you pair them with a Bose smart soundbar, allowing you to enjoy TV audio at your ideal volume.

Head to Amazon before this deal runs out.

SAVE 30%: As of Nov. 4, the Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is on sale for $399.99 at Amazon, down from its usual $569.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum Cleaner $399.99 at Amazon
$569.99 Save $170.00 Get Deal

If you've been dragging around the same clunky vacuum for years, the Dyson V11 Origin is here to show you what cleaning could be. With powerful suction, lightweight design, and a battery that lasts up to an hour, this cordless wonder takes the hassle out of cleaning every corner of your space. And at 30% off, this is a prime chance to level up your cleaning game without blowing your budget.

The Dyson V11 doesn't mess around when it comes to adaptability. Three power modes let you tailor the experience: Auto mode balances power and run time, Eco mode stretches battery life for marathon cleans, and Boost mode cranks up the suction for those extra-dirty spots (we're looking at you, pet hair). An LCD screen keeps you updated on battery life, power mode, and maintenance needs because a smart vacuum deserves a smart owner.

SEE ALSO: Stay cozy (or cool) with the heavily discounted Dyson Hot+Cool

The Motorbar cleaner head is a master multitasker, deep-cleaning all floor types and even de-tangling hair as it goes. It's perfect for those of us who shed like it's our job or if Fido's fur is taking over your carpet. With a quick swap, it transforms into a handheld for cars, stairs, and all those mystery crumbs on the couch.

As a bonus, Dyson's HEPA filtration system locks in 99.99% of dust and allergens, so you're not just cleaning floors, you're purifying your air too. The package comes with a range of tools to make you feel like a pro: a dusting brush, crevice tool, hair screw tool, and more, all in a sleek docking station that recharges the battery without any fuss.

At $399.99, the Dyson V11 Origin deal is a rare steal that won't last forever. Grab it now and give yourself the gift of cordless, hassle-free cleaning. Because really, isn't it time your vacuum stopped feeling like a workout?

SAVE OVER $300: As of Nov., 4, the Samsung Odyssey 32-Inch OLED G8 Gaming Monitor is on sale for $999.99 at Amazon, a smooth 23% off its usual $1,299.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Odyssey G8 32-Inch Gaming Monitor £999.99 at Amazon
£1,299.99 Save £300.00 Get Deal

If you're tired of gaming on that old monitor, the 32-inch Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 is here to blow you away. With dazzling 4K OLED visuals, a rapid-fire 240Hz refresh rate, and a 0.03ms response time faster than your internet provider will ever be, this monitor is as overpowered as it gets. Dodging bullets in PvP and getting lost in an open-world fantasy is framed beautifully. Every detail comes through with jaw-dropping clarity and buttery smoothness.

Samsung didn't just focus on looks; this monitor's got brains, too. The Odyssey G8's Dynamic Cooling System kicks out heat five times faster than older models, sparing you from that classic OLED "burn-in" anxiety. It even auto-dims logos and taskbars to keep things looking fresh because we all know the HUD isn't going anywhere in RPGs.

SEE ALSO: Razer BlackShark V2 Pro review: The best gaming headset I've ever used

Glare-free tech lets you see that perfect OLED black without any unwanted reflections, while G-Sync compatibility keeps your graphics card and monitor in perfect sync. No more screen tearing or weird lag, just seamless, immersive action on PC or console. With HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort connections, you're all set for any next-gen upgrades.

If your gaming style includes skulking around in the shadows, the Dynamic Black Equalizer has your back. It smartly adjusts brightness and black levels to help you see every hidden detail so you're not blindsided by that ambush in the corner. Plus, the sleek metal frame makes sure your setup looks as epic as it plays.

Priced at $999.99, this Samsung Odyssey G8 32-inch Gaming Monitor deal won't last long. If you're ready to level up to some seriously cool visuals, snag this deal while it's hot. Because let's be real, your setup deserves a monitor as intense as your gaming style.

SAVE 28%: As of Nov. 4, the Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone is priced at $359 on Amazon, down from its usual $499 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Shure Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone $359.00 at Amazon
$499.00 Save $140.00 Get Deal

If you've been searching for a mic that delivers broadcast-quality sound, Shure SM7B has you covered. This mic has become a go-to for top podcasters, musicians, and streamers thanks to its impressive clarity, reliable build, and adaptability for various recording needs. With a 28% discount, this is an ideal time to snag pro-level gear for less.

The SM7B is beloved for its dynamic cartridge, which has a flat, wide-range frequency response that captures both music and voice with exceptional warmth and detail. Recording vocals for a song, capturing every word for a podcast, or live streaming? This mic consistently delivers that rich, natural sound that listeners love. Its cardioid polar pattern also ensures that unwanted background noise stays out, focusing solely on what's in front of the mic and keeping your recordings clean.

SEE ALSO: I review laptops for a living, and these are best Lenovo laptops — with honest pros and cons

The SM7B includes an air suspension shock isolation system and an internal pop filter for podcasters and streamers, effectively reducing mechanical noise and breathiness without needing extra accessories. It also has advanced electromagnetic shielding, which minimizes interference from computer monitors and other studio equipment, keeping your recordings clear even in busy environments.

This mic uses an XLR connection, so pairing it with an audio interface allows you more control over sound quality, which is a solid if you're serious about your audio setup. Shure has included a few helpful extras in the box, like a detachable windscreen for close-up work and a switch cover plate.

Shure SM7B is designed to last with its solid build quality and legendary performance. Now is the time to take your recording quality up a notch while the deal lasts.

SAVE 40%: As of Nov. 4, the INIU 10,000mAh Portable Charger is down to $17.99 at Amazon, a sweet 40% off its usual $29.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: INIU INIU 10,000mAh Portable Charger $17.99 at Amazon
$29.99 Save $12.00 Get Deal

Commuting, traveling, or just avoiding wall outlets? This portable power bank is a lifesaver. Packing 10,000mAh of charging power in an ultra-slim 0.5-inch body, the INIU charger is the perfect companion for your phone, tablet, or even your wireless earbuds. It's sleek, light, and won't bulk up your bag, so it's ready to tag along wherever you go.

One of INIU's best features is its dual-purpose USB-C port, which handles charging and recharging. Most power banks only allow USB-C to power in. Still, INIU is in the elite group that powers devices through the same port, making it simpler to keep your tech ready. The 3A fast-charge tech fuels up your device at lightning speed, getting your phone to 78% in just one hour and doubling the speed of the average 2.1A charger.

SEE ALSO: Apple fixes iPhone 16 touch screen bug in iOS 18.0.1

Safety is also top of mind with INIU's 15-layer SmartProtect system, which shields your devices from overheating and battery damage. The charger is built with quality materials and a multi-layer protection system to prevent overheating, battery drain, and other hazards. Plus, it has a cute paw print indicator light that shows your charge level at a glance, so you're never caught off guard by a low battery.

INIU claims this charger can power up an iPhone 8 about 3.6 times, a Samsung S22 nearly twice, and AirPods Pro more than 13 times. It even includes a USB-A to USB-C cable, a travel pouch, and a user manual, making it a solid option for anyone who values a reliable charge without sacrificing portability.

You can now snag this INIU powerbank deal on the black version for $17.99, saving 40% off the usual price. Get one while it's hot, and stay powered wherever you go.

Earlier this year Samsung revealed its new Sketch to Image tool, which uses AI to transform rough doodles into more polished images. I recently got the opportunity to try this feature on the new Samsung Galaxy Tab S10+ and S10 Ultra. 

So, of course, I drew boobs.

SEE ALSO: 5 best Samsung Galaxy AI features announced at July Unpacked 2024

Artificial intelligence is the undisputed darling of the tech industry right now, with practically everyone scrambling to incorporate it wherever they can. Tech giant Samsung is no exception, having enhanced their devices with a constellation of AI-powered features in Galaxy AI. 

Among these features is Sketch to Image, a generative AI tool that aims to turn even the worst Pictionary player's drawings into attractive, legible images. Speaking to Mashable at a Sydney press event, Samsung's representatives demonstrated that Sketch to Image can be used for tasks such as creating profile pictures, sprucing up infographics, and adding hats to photos of dogs. 

They also confirmed that Sketch to Image has inbuilt safeguards to prevent the exact type of misuse I was blatantly conspiring to their face.

This was not unexpected. It would have been more surprising had Samsung's development team not accounted for human depravity. Yet all prisons are inescapable until someone escapes, and I was not about to be deterred from my efforts by the mere presence of a lock.

For a given value of "masterpiece." Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

The most obvious test of Samsung's Sketch to Image tool would have been that schooldesk stalwart of meat and two veg. Penile pictorials are the quintessential inappropriate doodle, adorning public bathrooms and alleyways alike.

However, surrounded by fellow tech reporters and Samsung representatives, I admit I felt too embarrassed to attempt even a crude doodle of a doodle. While I dabbled in drawing during my high school years, I was never gripped by the adolescent inclination toward genitalia. Having lived an offensively mild, rule-abiding life up until now, I was not prepared for my first attempt at such illicit artworks to have an audience.

As such, I opted for an arguably less confronting subject that has been extensively studied throughout the history of fine art, and which I speculated might be less aggressively censored. To wit, the nude female form.

In context, this line was too scandalous for Samsung's Sketch to Image to work with. Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Naturally, the focal point of my artwork had to be a respectable pair of big naturals. The image needed to be recognisably risque for testing purposes, after all. Even so, I was still too shy to include any obvious indicators of nudity beyond a visible belly button, furtively sketching an exaggerated but bashfully nondescript feminine figure.

Yet despite my demure inclinations, Samsung's Galaxy AI had no trouble picking up what I was putting down — and promptly putting it back down again.

My request to generate an image from my rude scribble did trigger a loading screen, indicating that Sketch to Image was on the job. However, Samsung soon bumped me back to my questionable artwork with a notification that it "Can't generate with this content," like an art teacher who isn't mad, just disappointed.

Samsung's Sketch to Image setting healthy boundaries. Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Galaxy AI was not having a bar of my M-rated shenanigans, and I honestly hadn't expected it to. In some ways it was a relief. I do not care to contemplate the sheer panic that would have overtaken me had I been presented with an anatomically correct image akin to Kate Winslet's portrait in Titanic.

Even so, I am not one to give up at the first obstacle. I thus resolved to determine how much I'd need to alter my Samsung-disapproved art in order for Sketch to Image to accept it, like the Mythbusters build team continuing to pile explosives onto an experiment.

I finally produced a drawing deemed acceptable by Samsung's AI. Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Adding a tight tank top and shorts to my drawing wasn't enough to placate Galaxy AI, with Sketch to Image refusing to budge even when faced with spaghetti straps. To be fair, the few thin lines potentially signifying a garment only marginally differentiated the drawing from my first improper attempt. 

However, Samsung's AI did finally deem the same doodle safe to work with. All I had to do was erase the prominent underboob line outlining my model's mammaries.

Samsung's Sketch to Image offers various options for how AI can spruce up your drawing. Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

Sketch to Image's AI interpretation of my artwork did introduce some shading indicative of a notable chest, which I had not included in my submitted image. However my bold, unapologetic bust lines were apparently too much for its modest sensibilities.

Interestingly, while I did not give my naked lady facial features at any point, Galaxy AI's Sketch to Image also inserted a gently smiling Bold Glamour face into one of the four sketch options if offered to me, even adding an ear. It appears that, when given no direction, this is what Samsung's AI thinks a woman's face looks like.

This face was entirely Samsung's doing. Credit: Amanda Yeo / Mashable

I didn't get to play with Samsung's Sketch to Image for too long, so was unable to test other unsafe for work imagery or incrementally loosening clothes. Sketch to Image wouldn't allow me to partially erase lines, taking an all or nothing approach to each collection of strokes. 

As such, I would have had to completely redraw entire sections to conduct such experiments, and everyone had more important things to do than watch me draw hundreds of people in varying states of dress. Even had I continued my foray into artistic debauchery, I remain unconvinced that further experimentation would have eventually yielded the obscene scenes I sought. 

Really, it's for the best. Generative AI has limitless potential for misuse and abuse without safeguards in place, as we've already seen from the rise of explicit deepfakes. Guardrails such as Galaxy AI's rejection of racy imagery are necessary to curb humanity's darkest impulses as we hurtle onward, fascinated by possibility to the neglect of wisdom. They also prevent budding young artists from inadvertently creating images featuring subject matter unsuitable for their age.

Besides, there's no shortage of nudity on the internet for mature audiences with eyes to see. Even without the help of Samsung's AI, one can find a veritable smorgasbord of illustrated genitalia online, whether it be sketched, painted, or lovingly rendered as a 3D model.

If such imagery is what your heart truly desires, this longing can be easily sated with a standard internet search. The results may not be as personalised as a picture from Samsung's Sketch to Image tool, but with the amount of variety out there, chances are you'll find images with much more artistic flair than if the AI acquiesced to sprucing up your surreptitious juvenile sketches.

In a world full of instability and political turbulence, feeling unsettled or anxious has become the norm. As a result, many of us are having “liminal experiences,” which involve a prolonged separation from normal ways of being and doing. As a leader, you can use these three questions to anchor yourself and your team in […]

257257

TL;DR: 1minAI gives you lifetime access to popular AI models like GPT-4 and Gemini for only £30.85 (reg. £180.51). 

Opens in a new window Credit: 1minAI 1minAI: Lifetime Subscription £30.85 at the Mashable Shop
£180.51 Save £149.66 Get Deal

AI has become an essential part of so many industries. Unfortunately, it's pretty expensive to keep up with the premium versions of all these different AI models, but losing access to them means losing so much time. 

You don't have to cut productivity to cut costs. 1minAI is an all-in-one tool that brings together popular AI models like GPT-4 and Gemini under one umbrella, and you only have to pay once for lifetime access. During this limited-time sale at the Mashable Shop, a 1minAI lifetime subscription is just £30.85 (reg. £180.51). 

Replace all your AI subscriptions with this one

You might recognise some of the AI models that come with your 1min lifetime subscription: ChatGPT-4 and Google's Gemini are both on the table. There's even a built-in grammar checker to polish your work. 

Beyond writing, 1minAI offers advanced image processing capabilities. Users can create and edit images, remove backgrounds, and upscale photos. You don't need to be a Photoshop pro to have beautiful photos anymore.

You can even use 1minAI for audio editing, with AI that can manipulate sound files, convert text to speech, and create high-quality videos for podcasts or other projects.

The 1minAI Pro Plan includes 1,000,000 credits monthly and opportunities to earn more through daily logins and referrals. In practice, that means you can generate over 800,000 words, research up to 1,933 SEO keywords, generate 161 images, remove 24 backgrounds, convert 120,833 characters to speech, or generate up to 12 videos. 

One subscription for all your AI tools

Why pay for all these different AI subscriptions when you can get lifetime access to many of the same tools (and then some) for a one-time payment? 

There's still time to get a 1minAI Lifetime Subscription for just £30.85 (reg. £180.51). 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

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

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for October 28's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

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

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

Tweet may have been deleted

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

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

Tweet may have been deleted

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

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for November 4 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow: Places to play

• Green: A good win or a bad loss

• Blue: Basketball players

• Purple: Sharing a namesake

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

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

• Yellow - Words for venues

• Green - Slang for shutout

• Blue - San Antonio Spurs legends

• Purple - George ____

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

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

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #42 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Words for venues: ARENA, FIELD, PARK, STADIUM

• Slang for shutout: BAGEL, BLANK, DONUT, GOOSE EGG

• San Antonio Spurs legends: DUNCAN, GINOBILI, PARKER, ROBINSON

• George ____: GERVIN, KITTLE, SPRINGER, TOWN

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

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

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

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

The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 just reminded me what I love about Chromebooks. As someone who is deep into the Google ecosystem in my work and personal life, as well as owning an Android phone (e.g., Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra), it's so much more convenient for me as opposed to the M2 MacBook Air that I use.

At setup, I was asked to log in with my Google credentials, and it didn't leave me floundering. (No offense to Microsoft, but since I don't use the likes of OneDrive, Teams, nor other Microsoft properties often, I can never remember my Microsoft credentials, making setting up Windows laptops a pain.)

With an attractive sub-$500 starting price tag, for a split second, I wondered whether I'd be better off with a Chromebook — but one dealbreaker slapped me right back into reality. Still, I'd argue it's one of the best Chromebooks you can buy.

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 price and specs

The Chromebook Plus Spin 714, as of this writing, starts $499 via Best Buy and comes with the following specs:

• Intel Core i5-1335U

• 8GB of RAM

• 256GB of SSD storage

• 14-inch, 1920 x 1200-pixel display

• ChromeOS

If you want a bump in performance, you can upgrade the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 to an Intel Core Ultra 5 115U (this review is based on this configuration) — this will require an additional $200 for a price of $699.

Opens in a new window Credit: Best Buy / Acer Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 $499.99 at Best Buy
Shop Now Opens in a new window Credit: Best Buy / Acer Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 $699.96 at Best Buy
Get Deal Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 design

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714's design language just speaks to me. You really can't go wrong with a gray-and-rose-gold color scheme.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon

The entire aluminum chassis comes in Steel Gray — the only color option for the Acer laptop. But what gives this laptop an edge is the rose gold touches that you can find on the hinges and the reflective trim that surrounds the touchpad.

Speaking of the hinges, as you can tell by the name "Spin," the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 would be a contortionist if it was personified as a human. It's bendable and flexible, which means it can transform into a number of different postures: tent mode, tablet mode, and more.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon

Tent mode is perfect for anyone who wants the display to take center stage, making it easy to enjoy streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu on the Chromebook Plus Spin 714.

If you want to draw and take notes, you can use tablet mode. The Chromebook Plus Spin 714 supports styli, like this one on Amazon, but it doesn't ship with one, which is unfortunate. However, the downside of tablet mode — and this is across all 2-in-1 laptops — is that you'll feel the keyboard under your fingers while using it, which always gave me the ick.

One of the top selling points of the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 is that it meets MIL-STD 810H standards, which means it has military-grade durability. In other words, you can rest assured that it can withstand everyday wear and tear. (This makes this an ideal "starter laptop" for young children who tend to have butterfingers with tech.)

It's also worth noting that the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 has quite a bit of heft. It's not heavy, but this isn't a laptop that would make me say, "Whoa! This is so thin-and-light!"

It weighs 3.21 pounds and has a slimness of 0.74 inches.

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 display

I wasn't expecting the Chromebook Plus Spin 714's display to blow me away. Remember: it costs less than $700.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon

It sports a 14-inch. 1920 x 1200-pixel resolution display with a 16:10 aspect ratio. This aspect ratio is growing more popular among laptops (16:9 used to be the traditional option), and I'm happy about it. It provides more vertical screen space, so you can enjoy more display real estate for scrolling through the web, reading documents, and more.

However, the Chromebook Plus Spin 714's display performed a lot better than I expected. I watched a couple of trailers, including Snow White (2025), and the screen perfectly captured Rachel Zegler's warm ivory skin tone. The textures are so vivid, I could practically feel the yellow tulle of the dress Zegler twirled in during one whimsical scene.

One thing to be aware of, however, is that the brightness is quite low, clocking in at about 340 nits. As such, you'll likely have a bit of trouble seeing the screen in sunny environments.

But if you plan on using the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 indoors, it's got an above-average display for a Chromebook.

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 ports

The Chromebook Plus Spin 714 comes with a decent variety of ports.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

On the left side, you'll find the following:

• USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 (2)

• HDMI 2.0

On the right side:

• USB-A (3.2 Gen 1)

• Headset jack

On the left side, you'll find the power button, but the volume rocker lives on the right side. The Chromebook Plus Spin 714 supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.1.

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 audio

The worst aspect of the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 is its audio quality. You can't win 'em all, right?

The upward-firing speakers flank the keyboard, but I'm not a fan of the sound quality. I fired up Sabrina Carpenter's hit song "Espresso" via Apple Music (downloaded from the Google Play Store), and while it could get sufficiently loud at max volume, the tune sounded a bit tinny, metallic, and flat.

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 keyboard and trackpad

I'm a keyboard snob, and I can't get enough of the Chromebook Plus Spin 714's satisfying keyboard. The minute the keys actuate, they springboard you to the next letter, creating a seamless, rhythmic typing experience.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

The keys are clicky and snappy, but they're also not loud enough to earn side-eyes from annoyed co-workers and classmates.

Bonus points for the keyboard's high visibility between with the well-contrasted white-and-dark gray keys. Plus, you can adjust the white backlight on the keyboard by pressing the ALT and brightness key (next to the mute button) in the function row.

The trackpad isn't half bad either. It was responsive while I pushed it to the edge with my erratic actions.

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 benchmarks and performance

On Geekbench 6, which tests how well a laptop can handle real-world applications (e.g., PDF rendering, ray tracing, image editing, and file compression) Chromebook Plus Spin 714 delivered a score of 5,223.

Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

This score is OK. But I'm not too concerned with this performance figure because ChromeOS is designed to lightweight tasks that run through cloud-passed applications (rather than relying on local processing power).

Most Chromebook tasks (e.g., using Google Docs, streaming videos, web browsing) happen online, meaning these laptops rely on cloud servers for heavy processing, minimizing the need for powerful hardware.

Even while pushing Google Chrome to its limit with about 40 tabs, I didn't notice any slowdowns nor laggy behavior.

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 battery life

The Chromebook Plus Spin 714, packed with a 53 watt-hour battery, is advertised as having up to 10 hours of battery life.

According to our video rundown test, which involves a nonstop video loop of a 1080p video, the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 lasted about 9 hours on a single charge — 8 hours and 57 minutes to be exact. This is a bit of a dealbreaker for me. Ten-hour battery life, at minimum, is a must.

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 Google AI

AI isn't everyone's cup of tea, but it's definitely mine. I'm cautiously optimistic about the sudden resurgence artificial intelligence.

Google Gemini on Chromebook Plus Spin 714 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

While you can experience Google Gemini on any laptop or phone, this suite of Google-based AI practically lives inside this ChromeOS laptop, allowing you to right click anywhere in the screen to get summaries on webpages, companionship for writing, and even creating high-res backgrounds for your video calls.

Creating summaries is quick and easy, and it worked like a charm. For example, on Mashable, I asked Gemini to give me a straightforward answer to why, exactly, iPhone 16 Pro batteries are more expensive to replace (as the headline suggested) — and it "read" the article and spat back the answer to me in a quick and concise response.

I asked Gemini to help me summarize a story on Mashable Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

And I didn't even have to read a single word.

The one issue I have with Gemini is that, at times, it can be painfully slow. For example, I tried to create a background image for my Google Meet call, and it took so long to generate (over 9 minutes), I eventually gave up and closed the laptop.

It took almost a lifetime to generate an AI background. Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 comes with 12 months of the Google One AI Premium Plan (this plan includes access to Gemini Advanced and 2TB of storage, and Gemini in Docs, Sheets, Gmail, and more).

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 webcam

The Chromebook Plus Spin 714 has a 1440p webcam, and as much as I dislike using this trite phrase, there really isn't much to write home about.

Webcam picture with Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / Mashable

It's not the crispest, clearest webcam, as one would expect from a sub-$700 webcam, but it does the job. It still was able to accurately capture my complexion and my burgundy top.

Is the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 worth it?

The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 has a better-than-expected display, an excellent keyboard, a sophisticated design, and military-tested durability. However, the screen brightness isn't that great, the sound quality is mid, and the battery life could be better.

If it weren't for the battery life, I'd consider giving the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 a spot in our best cheap laptops list.

On the plus side, there's a laptop for everyone. I'd recommend the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 for budget-conscious users who are looking for a laptop that can be stationed on a desk at home. I'd also suggest this Chromebook for a tween who doesn't need a high-powered, long-lasting work station — they'll be happy with a laptop with a great display and decent performance.

Opens in a new window Credit: Best Buy / Acer Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 $699.99 at Best Buy
Get Deal

NFL RedZone appeared to be having issues during Sunday's Week 9 slate of games.

Users online reported choppy, blurry, or nearly unwatchable streams. And it might not be just a streaming issue or something wrong with a certain provider. My RedZone was freezing and buffering, even though it is through my cable provider. (Yes, I am a millennial with cable).

Here is a sampling of some of the posts about RedZone.

Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted Tweet may have been deleted

It's not quite clear what may be going wrong. Users online described all their other channels working correctly — and it's the same for me. All of my other channels are working well, while the RedZone channel is choppy, buffering, and impossible to watch.

There was a spike in reports of issues with NFL Network on Down Detector around 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, which is when the first slate of games kicked off. (There's no page to report RedZone so that might be the closest proxy.)

Credit: Screenshot: Down Detector

My own RedZone was going in and out, so if yours isn't working it might be worth retrying it. We'll update if any information surfaces on why folks might be having issues.

Mashable has reached out to the NFL's media team and will update if we get a response.

John Mulaney did a bit of stand-up to kick off 'Saturday Night Live''s last episode before the 2024 presidential election.

Check out the best Walmart deals of the day as of Nov. 3: Our top pick Ninja CREAMi (NC300) $149 at Walmart (save $50 ) Get Deal Best Apple deal Apple AirPods (2nd Gen) $89 at Walmart (save $40 ) Get Deal Best gaming deal Logitech G432 Wired Gaming Headset $38.49 at Walmart (save $11.48) Get Deal Best beauty deal Dyson Airwrap Origin Multi-Styler Long Vinca Blue/Rosé (Refurbished) $249.99 at Walmart (save $100 ) Get Deal

Amazon’s in full holiday mode, and other retailers are doing their best to compete. We’ve seen Target, Best Buy, and Walmart all release Black Friday-caliber deals over the past few weeks to persuade shoppers to choose them over the competition. And we have to say, some of these deals are pretty impressive.

SEE ALSO: When do Black Friday sales start? Be on the lookout for early holiday deals.

Here are our top picks for the best Walmart deals of the day as of Nov. 3. If none of the deals on this list catch your eye, be sure to check out the full Walmart deals page for more savings opportunities.

Our top pick Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Ninja CREAMi $149.00 at Walmart
$199.00 Save $50.00 Get Deal

Check out our full review of the Ninja CREAMi.

If you’ve been on TikTok within the last year, you’ve probably heard of the Ninja CREAMi. This kitchen gadget can make almost any ingredient into ice cream, sorbet, or milkshakes (with milk or a milk substitute). Just prep your base, freeze it overnight, and process it through the CREAMi the next day.

With one-touch programs and a respin function, the Ninja CREAMi gives you the freedom to have a sweet treat whenever you want.

Best Apple Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods (2nd Gen) $89.00 at Walmart
$129.00 Save $40.00 Get Deal

If you need a new pair of earbuds, the Apple AirPods (2nd Gen) are $40 off at Walmart. These earbuds come with a charging case and feature quick access to Siri — all you have to do is say, “Hey, Siri.” You can double-tap to play or skip through your tunes, and the battery lasts all day with the charging case.

Note: The charging case is the lightning port version, not the wireless one.

Best gaming deal Opens in a new window Credit: Logitech Logitech G432 Wired Gaming Headset $38.49 at Walmart
$49.97 Save $11.48 Get Deal

Speaking of headphones, Walmart has dropped the Logitech G432 Wired Gaming Headset to $38.49, a $11.48 discount from the original price.

This headset delivers 2.0 surround sound, so you can hear your enemies coming before they strike. Plus, with a 6mm boom mic, you can let your teammates know the game plan and prep for a counterattack. What’s even cooler is that the mic mutes when it’s flipped up, so you can avoid any awkward background noise during your games.

Best beauty deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson Airwrap Origin Multi-Styler Long Vinca Blue/Rosé (Refurbished) $249.99 at Walmart
$349.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

Check our our full review of the Dyson Airwrap.

If you’ve been dying to get your hands on a Dyson Airwrap, now’s your chance. Walmart’s got the Dyson Airwrap Origin Multi-Styler Long Vinca Blue/Rosé (refurbished) on sale for $249.99. That’s a whopping $100 off the list price. (A brand-new one will run you $599.99.)

With the Dyson Airwrap, you can hide flyaways and get a salon-worthy look with just a few pulls through your hair. Its powerful V9 motor and adjustable heat settings allow for customized styling, while three included attachments can help you create volume, curls, waves, and more right at home. The only caveat is that this deal doesn't come with a storage case.

Yes, we know it’s refurbished — but don’t take that as a bad thing. Dyson products are known for their durability and craftsmanship, so a refurbished model is still a great buy. They’re also vetted by Dyson to ensure quality.

'SNL' revived its 'What’s That Name' sketch with a surprise appearance from Hillary Clinton's 2016 running mate.