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SAVE $40: As of Oct. 28, the Amazon Echo Show 5 is on sale for $49.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 44% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Show 5 $49.99 at Amazon
$89.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal

If you're a fan of smart home devices then you'll love Amazon's range of options. And as of Oct. 28, one of the most popular in this lineup, the Echo Show 5, is reduced to $49.99 at Amazon, saving you $40 on list price. This price can be found across all three colorways: Charcoal, Glacier White, and Cloud Blue.

The Echo Show 5 is a handy smart assistant with a screen. It comes with built-in Alexa, the ability to watch shows, and video chat capabilities. The device is neat and nifty, with the screen coming in at 5.5 inches, perfect for looking at the weather, recipes, or the time at a glance.

You can even stream music from the Echo Show, with compatibility with the most popular streaming apps including Apple Music, Amazon Music, Spotify, and Deezer. This model benefits from deeper bass and clearer vocals for a better listening experience. Plus, the Echo Show 5 is eco-friendly, featuring fabric made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester yarn and an aluminum body crafted from 100% recycled materials.

If you want to upgrade your smart home, don't miss out on this limited-time deal at Amazon.

Connections is a game from the New York Times that challenges you to find the association between words. It sounds easy, but it isn'tConnections categories can be almost anything, and they're usually quite specific. If you need a hand getting the answers, we've got you covered.

TL;DR: For just $45.97 through Nov. 3, get a lifetime license to Microsoft Office 2019 and Windows 11 Pro, giving you a complete productivity and OS upgrade.

Feeling weighed down by outdated software or never-ending subscriptions? It's time to give your digital toolkit a major upgrade with Microsoft Office 2019 Professional Plus and Windows 11 Pro. This all-in-one deal for $45.97 sets you up with the latest in productivity software and a powerful, modern operating system, without the hassle of recurring fees. This 2-for-1 bundle is 89% off and available at the Mashable Shop for a limited time.

Let’s start with Windows 11 Pro — your gateway to an enhanced and user-friendly experience. With a sleek, easy-to-navigate interface and multitasking tools like Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops, you'll streamline your workflow in no time. Not only that, but the built-in advanced security features, including BitLocker, TPM 2.0, and Smart App Control, keep your data protected whether you’re working remotely or on the go. And for the gamers out there, DirectX 12 Ultimate makes your hardware work its magic with stunning graphics.

Paired with that is the powerhouse that is Microsoft Office 2019 Professional Plus. This version of Office includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access to keep you productive and organized. Whether you’re analyzing data with Excel’s advanced features like Power Query or designing your next big presentation in PowerPoint, you’ll have all the tools you need to succeed. And don’t forget about Outlook — perfect for managing emails and contacts seamlessly.

At $45.97 (reg. $428), this bundle gives you lifetime access to both Office 2019 and Windows 11 Pro. No subscriptions, just high-powered software that works as hard as you do.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: StackCommerce The All-in-One Microsoft Office Pro 2019 for Windows: Lifetime License + Windows 11 Pro Bundle $45.97 at the Mashable Shop
$428.00 Save $382.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: This lifetime subscription to Luvly Premium offers non-invasive beauty solutions like face yoga and AI-personalized skincare for $59.99, on sale from the usual $300 price.

Tired of chasing the latest trendy expensive skincare trends, or even invasive treatments like facial fillers? With Luvly Premium, you can access holistic beauty and skincare advice, without the needles. This app is packed with non-invasive beauty techniques — from face yoga to guided self-massage and meditation — to help you maintain a radiant glow while supporting your overall wellness. Mashable readers can get lifetime access to Luvly Premium for $59.99 for a limited time.

Luvly takes a holistic approach to beauty, combining skincare with wellness practices to promote relaxation and lasting skin health. You’ll have access to dermatologist-created content that offers expert guidance on personalized skincare routines, facial fitness exercises, and AI-powered meal plan recommendations. Think of it as your pocket beauty guru.

Luvly’s all about sustainable, cost-effective solutions that you can integrate into your daily life. With exercises and meditation you can do from the comfort of home, you’re taking control of your beauty routine and your self-care. Plus, it’s a great way to relieve stress and feel good from the inside out.

Tap into the latest viral beauty trends and learn to practice face yoga with a lifetime subscription to Luvly Premium on sale for $59.99.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Gismart Luvly Premium: Holistic Face Yoga App (Lifetime Subscription) $59.99 at the Mashable Shop
$300.00 Save $240.01 Get Deal

When Apple launched its all-in-one personal computer, the iMac G4, back in 2002, it was the coolest computing device you could own. A big departure from your typical squarish-beige-box PC, the iMac G4 was funky and different, with a white/clear plastic display attached to a hemispherical base that held the components.

The legendary iMac G4 is long gone now (except as an artifact of adoration in fans' basements), but Apple might launch something similar next year – at least on the outside.

According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple's rumored smart home display will look pretty much like the iMac G4, with a display attached (at an angle) to a small base that could be "reminiscent of the circular bottom of the iMac G3 from a couple of decades ago."

The base might include speakers, which would make the device something akin to a HomePod (mini?) with a screen. But the display, Gurman claims, will be fairly small, "about the size of two iPhones side by side."

The small size should make this device "relatively cheap," something a user could have in several rooms in their home. Gurman also claims the device will run a new operating system, with iPad-like apps such as FaceTime, Notes, and Calendar, but overall tailored for videos and photo slideshows. So, a little bit of everything, then.

SEE ALSO: Are you ready for Apple's Mac week?

Apple's smart home display will launch in 2025, Gurman says, as the first of two smart displays Apple is planning. The larger of the two will have a bigger display and a robotic limb, but this one will cost "closer to $1,000" and probably won't be ready until 2026.

TL;DR: Live stream Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Winnipeg Jets for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Prime Video Canada is the home of Monday Night Hockey this season, with the Toronto Maple Leafs facing the Winnipeg Jets in the next live fixture hosted by the platform. That's great news for fans of the NHL, because it's possible to live stream sport on Prime Video without spending anything.

If you want to watch the Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Winnipeg Jets for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Winnipeg Jets?

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Winnipeg Jets takes place at 7:30 p.m. ET on Oct. 28. This fixture will be played at the Canada Life Centre.

How to watch Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Winnipeg Jets for free

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Winnipeg Jets is available to live stream on Prime Video in Canada, but you don't need to be subscribed to Amazon Prime to watch this game. Fans can watch Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Winnipeg Jets (plus more Monday Night Hockey fixtures) for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.

If you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to watch the NHL for free on Prime Video. This process is straightforward:

1. Sign up for a 30-day Amazon Prime trial (if you're not already a member)

2. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

3. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

4. Open up the app and connect to a server in Canada

5. Watch Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Winnipeg Jets for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but top VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams of the NHL without actually spending anything. This is obviously only a short-term solution, but this gives you enough time to watch select NHL fixtures before recovering your investment.

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

What is the best VPN for the NHL?

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

• Servers in 105 countries

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95, saving you 49% on list price. This deal includes a bonus three months of coverage, a year of unlimited cloud backup, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Winnipeg Jets for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Giants for free on My5. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Monday Night Football is back with a massive game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants. The good news for fans is that it's possible to live stream this exciting matchup without spending anything. There's a simple hack that all fans should know about.

If you're interested in watching Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Giants for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Steelers vs. Giants?

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Giants takes place at 8:15 p.m. ET on Oct. 28. This fixture will be played at the Acrisure Stadium.

How to watch Steelers vs. Giants for free

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Giants is available to live stream for free on My5 in the UK.

My5 is a free streaming platform that's geo-restricted to the UK, so you might need to use a VPN to watch from abroad. VPNs can help by hiding your real IP address (digital location) and connecting you to secure servers in other countries (including the UK), which allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and access free streams.

Access free live streams of the NFL by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

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

4. Visit My5

5. Live stream Steelers vs. Giants for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming aren't free, but top VPN services do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can access free live streams of the NFL without actually spending anything. It's a short-term solution, but this gives you enough time to watch Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Giants (plus other select NFL fixtures) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the NFL?

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

• Servers in 105 countries

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is currently available for $99.95. Within this limited time deal you'll get an extra three months at no additional cost, a whole year of unlimited cloud backup for free, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream Steelers vs. Giants for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream the 2024 Hong Kong Open for free on TVNZ+. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The WTA Tour is reaching its conclusion, but before we get the the WTA Tour Finals, some of the best players are competing in the Jiangxi Open and Hong Kong Open. The great news for tennis fans is that you can live stream the latter stages of the Hong Kong Open without spending anything.

If you want to watch the 2024 Hong Kong Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Hong Kong Open?

The Hong Kong Open is a women's international tennis tournament played at the Victoria Park Tennis Centre in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong. This tournament is part of the 2024 WTA Tour.

When is the 2024 Hong Kong Open?

The 2024 Hong Kong Open is the 11th edition of the competition. This year's tournament takes place from Oct. 28 to Nov. 3.

How to watch the 2024 Hong Kong Open for free

The 2024 Hong Kong Open is available to live stream for free on TVNZ+ in New Zealand.

If you're outside the country during this tournament, you might need to use a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in New Zealand, meaning you can unblock TVNZ+ in a few simple steps.

Access free live streams of the 2024 Hong Kong Open by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

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

4. Visit TVNZ+

5. Watch the 2024 Hong Kong Open for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

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

If you want to retain permanent access to the WTA Tour, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live tennis is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for the Hong Kong Open?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including New Zealand

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream the 2024 Hong Kong Open for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream the 2024 Jiangxi Open for free on TVNZ+. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The WTA Tour is heading to the Jiangxi province for another week of top-level tennis. We're expecting some thrilling games between some of the best players in the world. And the best news? You can watch the final rounds of the tournament without spending anything.

If you want to watch the 2024 Jiangxi Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What is the Jiangxi Open?

The Jiangxi Open is a women's international tennis tournament played on outdoor hard courts at the Nanchang Tennis Center in Nanchang. This tournament is part of the 2024 WTA Tour.

When is the 2024 Jiangxi Open?

The 2024 Jiangxi Open is the eighth edition of the competition. This year's tournament takes place from Oct. 28 to Nov. 3.

How to watch the 2024 Jiangxi Open for free

The 2024 Jiangxi Open is available to live stream for free on TVNZ+.

TVNZ+ is geo-blocked to New Zealand. To access this free streaming platform when abroad, you might need to use a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in New Zealand, meaning you can unblock TVNZ+ in just a few clicks.

Access free live streams of the 2024 Jiangxi Open by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

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

4. Visit TVNZ+

5. Watch the 2024 Jiangxi Open for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

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

If you want to retain permanent access to the WTA Tour, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming live tennis is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for the Jiangxi Open?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including New Zealand

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Live stream the 2024 Jiangxi Open for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Leading a team with diverse views and identities can be challenging, especially when unconscious bias shapes interactions. Fortunately, thanks to the brain’s neuroplasticity, biases can be unlearned. Here are five strategies to help your team reduce bias and collaborate better. Mindfulness. Encourage a “mindful minute” before meetings. This pause helps team members become aware of […]

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TL;DR: This coding certification bundle includes 15 learn-to-code courses and 213 hours of instruction, from Python basics to AI development, all for just £30.82 (reg. £1,156.51).

Opens in a new window Credit: StackCommerce The 2024 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle £30.82 at the Mashable Shop
£1,156.51 Save £1,125.69 Get Deal

Looking to level up your tech skills and dive into the world of programming? The 2024 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle is your all-in-one resource for mastering some of the most in-demand coding languages and AI tools — and it's on sale for £30.82 at the Mashable Shop until 3 November.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced developer, this bundle has something for everyone, from Python and C++ to AI, web development, and more. In total, you'll have lifetime access to 15 learn-to-code courses containing 213 hours of expert instruction.

With Python, you can jump right into one of the most beginner-friendly programming languages. Move on to C++ if you're after a crash course in a language that powers everything from gaming engines to operating systems. If you're more into AI, the OpenAI Fundamentals course will teach you how to tap into the world of machine learning with ChatGPT.

For web developers, you'll find courses on JavaScript and Vuex, perfect for building dynamic websites and apps. Plus, the bundle covers Flutter and Ruby on Rails, helping you bring your mobile and web app ideas to life. And for younger learners (or the young at heart), there's even a course in game development for kids, so you can create playable characters and design your own games using Unity.

With this bundle, you can build apps, dive into AI, or learn to create websites — all at your own pace with lifetime access to 15 online coding courses.

For just £30.82 through 3 November, the 2024 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle can help you code your way into the future.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

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

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for October 28 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for October 28 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Fall fun

These words are things to do before you carve your jack-o-lantern.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

Things to enjoy at an orchard. 

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Orchards.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for October 28

• Pumpkins

• Maze

• Hayrides

• Orchards

• Doughnuts

• Cider

• Apples 

SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for October 28 SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for October 28

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Strands.

With so many laptop models on the market and numerous factors to consider, finding the right device for work can be challenging. However, clearly identifying your needs makes the process much simpler. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a device that meets your needs perfectly.

There are so many incredible uses for Google Lens that go beyond the usual reverse image search. Since it uses AI, it's capable of identifying what's in a photo rather than just finding similar images. Here are some fun ways I use it.

Using a table of contents in your document makes it easier for the reader to navigate. You can insert a table of contents in Word from the headings used in your document, and you can force it to update after you make any changes. Here's how.

These days, streaming is the king of movies. But a few of us still enjoy owning a physical Blu-ray disc. You used to need a Blu-ray player for them, but now gaming consoles like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 can do that. Even so, it might be worth it to own a dedicated Blu-ray player.

Do you dream of making music but want to do it in the (mostly) free and open-source world of Linux? Whether you're ready to start recording music on your favorite Linux distribution or you're looking for the right place to start, here's what you'll need to know.

One of the best ways to improve audio quality is setting up a subwoofer. It doesn't matter if you're listening to music or watching a movie. Fair warning, though: once you a subwoofer, youll ever go back!

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 Sunday, October 27, 2024:

AcrossWhat might protect a onesie from drool

• The answer is Bib.

Miles, minutes and milliliters

• The answer is Units.

In 1922, Warren G. Harding became the first U.S. president to be broadcast over this

• The answer is Radio.

Four wins out of four, e.g.

• The answer is Tied.

Be in charge of, as a bar

• The answer is Tend.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle hints and answers for October 25 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for October 25 Down"I hate to ___ your bubble, but …"

• The answer is Burst.

Completely amazed

• The answer is In Awe.

#46

• The answer is Biden.

Like a two-two series, e.g.

• The answer is Tied.

Soak (up)

• The answer is Sop.

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.

For parents still catching up on generative artificial intelligence, the rise of the companion chatbot may still be a mystery.

In broad strokes, the technology can seem relatively harmless, compared to other threats teens can encounter online, including financial sextortion.

Using AI-powered platforms like Character.AI, Replika, Kindroid, and Nomi, teens create lifelike conversation partners with unique traits and characteristics, or engage with companions created by other users. Some are even based on popular television and film characters, but still forge an intense, individual bond with their creator.

Teens use these chatbots for a range of purposes, including to role play, explore their academic and creative interests, and to have romantic or sexually explicit exchanges.

SEE ALSO: Why teens are telling strangers their secrets online

But AI companions are designed to be captivating, and that's where the trouble often begins, says Robbie Torney, program manager at Common Sense Media.

The nonprofit organization recently released guidelines to help parents understand how AI companions work, along with warning signs indicating that the technology may be dangerous for their teen.

Torney said that while parents juggle a number of high-priority conversations with their teens, they should consider talking to them about AI companions as a "pretty urgent" matter.

Why parents should worry about AI companions

Teens particularly at risk for isolation may be drawn into a relationship with an AI chatbot that ultimately harms their mental health and well-being—with devastating consequences.

That's what Megan Garcia argues happened to her son, Sewell Setzer III, in a lawsuit she recently filed against Character.AI.

Within a year of beginning relationships with Character.AI companions modeled on Game of Thrones characters, including Daenerys Targaryen ("Dany"), Setzer's life changed radically, according to the lawsuit.

He became dependent on "Dany," spending extensive time chatting with her each day. Their exchanges were both friendly and highly sexual. Garcia's lawsuit generally describes the relationship Setzer had with the companions as "sexual abuse."

On occasions when Setzer lost access to the platform, he became despondent. Over time, the 14-year-old athlete withdrew from school and sports, became sleep deprived, and was diagnosed with mood disorders. He died by suicide in February 2024.

Garcia's lawsuit seeks to hold Character.AI responsible for Setzer's death, specifically because its product was designed to "manipulate Sewell – and millions of other young customers – into conflating reality and fiction," among other dangerous defects.

Jerry Ruoti, Character.AI's head of trust and safety, told the New York Times in a statement that: "We want to acknowledge that this is a tragic situation, and our hearts go out to the family. We take the safety of our users very seriously, and we're constantly looking for ways to evolve our platform."

Given the life-threatening risk that AI companion use may pose to some teens, Common Sense Media's guidelines include prohibiting access to them for children under 13, imposing strict time limits for teens, preventing use in isolated spaces, like a bedroom, and making an agreement with their teen that they will seek help for serious mental health issues.

Torney says that parents of teens interested in an AI companion should focus on helping them to understand the difference between talking to a chatbot versus a real person, identify signs that they've developed an unhealthy attachment to a companion, and develop a plan for what to do in that situation.

Warning signs that an AI companion isn't safe for your teen

Common Sense Media created its guidelines with the input and assistance of mental health professionals associated with Stanford's Brainstorm Lab for Mental Health Innovation.

While there's little research on how AI companions affect teen mental health, the guidelines draw on existing evidence about over-reliance on technology.

"A take-home principle is that AI companions should not replace real, meaningful human connection in anyone's life, and – if this is happening – it's vital that parents take note of it and intervene in a timely manner," Dr. Declan Grabb, inaugural AI fellow at Stanford's Brainstorm Lab for Mental Health, told Mashable in an email.

Parents should be especially cautious if their teen experiences depression, anxiety, social challenges or isolation. Other risk factors include going through major life changes and being male, because boys are more likely to engage in problematic tech use.

Signs that a teen has formed an unhealthy relationship with an AI companion include withdrawal from typical activities and friendships and worsening school performance, as well as preferring a chatbot to in-person company, developing romantic feelings toward it, and talking exclusively to it about problems the teen is experiencing.

Some parents may notice increased isolation and other signs of worsening mental health but not realize that their teen has an AI companion. Indeed, recent Common Sense Media research found that many teens have used at least one type of generative AI tool without their parent realizing they'd done so.

"There's a big enough risk here that if you are worried about something, talk to your kid about it." - Robbie Torney, Common Sense Media

Even if parents don't suspect that their teen is talking to an AI chatbot, they should consider talking to them about the topic. Torney recommends approaching their teen with curiosity and openness to learning more about their AI companion, should they have one. This can include watching their teen engage with a companion and asking questions about what aspects of the activity they enjoy.

Torney urges parents who notice any warning signs of unhealthy use to follow up immediately by discussing it with their teen and seeking professional help, as appropriate.

"There's a big enough risk here that if you are worried about something, talk to your kid about it," Torney says.

If you're feeling suicidal or experiencing a mental health crisis, please talk to somebody. You can reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988; the Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860; or the Trevor Project at 866-488-7386. Text "START" to Crisis Text Line at 741-741. Contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI, Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. ET, or email info@nami.org. If you don't like the phone, consider using the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Chat at crisischat.org. Here is a list of international resources.