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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 SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026:

AcrossPrefix meaning "eight"

• The answer is Octo.

Classic poem that begins "I saw the best minds of my generation destroyed by madness"

• The answer is Howl.

One of the Jenners

• The answer is Kylie.

As one word: A henchman / As two words: "Please proceed"

• The answer is Goon.

Prickly seedcases

• The answer is Burs.

Down"Stop, I'm blushing!"

• The answer is Oh You.

Indicator of difficulty in Connections

• The answer is Color.

Identical siblings

• The answer is Twins.

Repeated cheer at a soccer stadium

• The answer is Ole.

Soviet spy org.

• The answer is KGB.

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

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 yesterday's Mini Crossword.

Stephen Colbert has blasted CBS, claiming that the network has barred him from airing his interview with Texas State Rep. James Talarico. He was also allegedly told that he couldn't even mention not having Talarico on. Of course, that didn't stop him.

"Because my network clearly doesn't want us to talk about this, let's talk about this," Colbert quipped.

The Late Show host spent around eight minutes giving audiences a peek behind the curtain, explaining that CBS' lawyers told them "in no uncertain terms" that Talarico could not be on the broadcast. CBS' mandate was apparently due to FCC chair Brendan Carr stating that he's considering eliminating the talk show exemption to the equal time rule. Under this rule, if a program on radio or broadcast television interviews a candidate during an election, they have to do the same with all their opponents as well. 

Carr has claimed that removing the talk show exemption would be an attempt to reduce partisanship in broadcast. However, Colbert noted that the FCC chair has said he's not interested in applying the same pressure to radio shows which are traditionally right-leaning.

"I think you are motivated by partisan purposes yourself. Sir, ya smelt it 'cause ya dealt it. You are Dutch ovening America's airwaves," said Colbert. "Let's just call this what it is. Donald Trump's administration wants to silence anyone who says anything bad about Trump on TV, because all Trump does is watch TV. He's like a toddler with too much screen time."

Colbert also pointed out that, significantly, Carr hasn't actually eliminated the exemption yet, merely stated that he's thinking of doing it.

"He hasn't done away with it yet, but my network is unilaterally enforcing it as if he had," said Colbert. "I want to assure you, this decision is for purely financial reasons." 

Fortunately, you can still watch Colbert's interview with Talarico, just not on broadcast television. The segment has been uploaded to the Late Show's YouTube page, though Colbert was banned from linking directly to it. As of writing, the video's top comment states, "The FCC not wanting me to watch this made me want to watch this."

Watch Colbert's banned interview with Talarico below.

"The network says I can't give you [a] URL or a QR code, but I promise you, if you go to our YouTube page, you'll find it," said Colbert during the Late Show broadcast.

"So I cannot show you any form of James Talarico. I can't interview James Talarico. I can't show any pictures of James Talarico. I'm not even sure I can say the words 'James Talarico.' But what I can show you is what we always show when we have to pull material at the last minute: this tasteful nude of Brendan Carr."

Apple's iOS 26.4 beta is now available, just one week after the tech giant launched iOS 26.3. Released on Monday, the iOS 26.4 beta doesn't include the long-awaited Gemini-powered Siri, which was rumoured to arrive in this update up until last week. Instead, the latest iOS version focuses on changes to Apple Music and Podcasts, as well as testing out end-to-end RCS encryption for text messages.

The iOS 26.4 beta is currently only available to developers, however a wider public release is expected in the following weeks. Here are a few of the most significant new features you can look forward to.

Apple Music adds AI-generated playlists

Apple Music received a redesign in iOS 26.4 beta, adding full-page artwork and a new feature showing concerts and tour dates in your local area. However, the arguably bigger update is the new ability to create AI-generated playlists based on text prompts. 

Called Playlist Playground, users can type in a description of the type of tunes they're after, such as "evening wind down songs" or "90s grunge hits." Apple Music will then use AI to generate a 25-song playlist based on this prompt, which can be further refined by adding additional prompts as well as manually curating and reordering songs. Once you're happy with your playlist, you can add cover art and a description before saving it.

Apple Podcasts improves video capabilities

Apple Podcasts already supports video, but the iOS 26.4 beta has given this feature an update. Switching between audio and video should be easier, as Apple's communications protocol will automatically adjust playback quality depending upon your network conditions. Users can also swap between horizontal and vertical displays, and download video podcasts to watch later.

In addition to this, podcast creators can now dynamically insert video ads into their episodes, with Apple stating that this enables them to "[unlock] access to the broader video advertising market while maintaining full creative control." The tech giant further noted that video podcast episodes will be included in Apple Podcast features such as in personalised recommendations and editorially curated lists.

RCS end-to-end encryption tests in Messages

The new iOS update tests Rich Communication Services (RCS) end-to-end encryption in Messenger, a security measure which could eventually make texting your Android-using friends more secure. Even so, it's only available for messages sent between Apple devices during this testing stage.

iOS 26.4 beta's release notes state that RCS end-to-end encryption isn't currently available on all devices and carriers during this testing stage. Further, the feature won't be included when iOS 26.4 comes out of beta, Apple stating that it will be added in a future update.

Adaptability is the leadership skill that will set you apart in today’s job market. Titles and results matter, but what truly differentiates you is how you lead when conditions shift. In your next interview for a senior leader role, make sure you can clearly demonstrate how you adapt under pressure.  Expand your adaptability perspective. Highlight moments that required agility, resilience, […]

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If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

To make amends.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

ATONE

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Recovery.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for February 17, 2026 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

REHAB

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Glimmering.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for February 17 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for February 17, 2026 Hurdle Word 3 answer

SHINY

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Foundation.

Hurdle Word 4 answer

BASIS

Final Hurdle hint

Preface.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

INTRO

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

SAVE $270: The DJI Power 1000 V2 is on sale at Amazon for $429, down from the standard price of $699. That's a 39% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Power 1000 V2 $429 at Amazon
$699 Save $270   Get Deal

We're living through a lucky time when it comes to portable power. It wasn't all that long ago that we headed to the campground just accepting that our phones would die within the day or we had to run an extension cord across the yard to use power tools in the back shed. But now we have versatile portable power stations that solve our juice problems while we're off grid. If you're looking for a power station to use on content creation days, there's an excellent model on sale today during Amazon's Presidents' Day sale.

As of Feb. 16, the DJI Power 1000 V2 is on sale at Amazon for $429, marked down from the standard price of $699. That's a 39% discount.

Scoring a portable power station that comes with 1,024Wh of battery capacity for under $430 is a good deal. On top of this, DJI packed the Power 1000 V2 with elements that are excellent for creators. The dual SDC ports have the ability to super-fast charge DJI drone batteries. It's also an especially quiet model, operating at as low as 26 decibels. This will be excellent if you'll be filming content in the same room as the portable power station or you'll be using it to power up a CPAP machine at night during a power outage.

SEE ALSO: The Amazon Presidents' Day sale is live — score huge deals on Apple, Lego, Roborock, and more

DJI improved the recharging time on the V2 and you'll now be able to get back to 80% battery power with just 37 minutes of recharging with standard AC power. You'll be able to get back to 100% with 56 minutes of wall recharging on grid power.

When testing the DJI Power 1000 V2, I found it easy to carry around since it weighs about 31 pounds. Another major benefit of the Power 1000 V2 is its expansion capability. Should you want more power, you can connect up to five DJI Expansion Battery 2000 to the Power 1000 V2. Each Battery 2000 brings another 2,048Wh to the party.

Before the next power outage or content creation assignment, upgrade your setup with the DJI Power 1000 V2. It's on sale for $270 off at Amazon.

SAVE $470: As of Feb. 16, you can get the 65-inch TCL Class QM6K Series 4K HDR Smart Google TV for $529.99 at Amazon and Best Buy.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL 65-inch TCL Class QM6K Series 4K HDR Smart Google TV $529.99 at Amazon
  Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: TCL 65-inch TCL Class QM6K Series 4K HDR Smart Google TV $529.99 at Best Buy
$999.99 Save $470   Get Deal

Amazon is pouring so much energy into its Presidents' Day Sale that I think they honestly forgot to tag this TV.

Right now, the 65-inch TCL QM6K Series is down to $529.99. To put that value in perspective, Best Buy is currently selling this exact model for the same price but is explicitly flagging it as a $470 discount. You're basically getting a $1,000 TV for nearly half off, just without the flashy "deal" sticker on the Amazon page.

SEE ALSO: The best Presidents' Day TV deals: Save big on TCL, Samsung, Hisense, and more

This is a 2025 model with Mini-LED and QLED technology (aka deep blacks and blinding brightness), specs that typically cost twice as much. It also features a 144Hz native refresh rate, making it a smart choice for PS5 or Xbox Series X owners who want fluid motion without paying the "Samsung flagship" tax.

Top trim sports cars grab all the press. The Corvette ZR1/ZR1X, Porsche 911 GT3 RS, and the Ford Mustang GTD are all examples. The same holds true for more modestly priced cars such as the Volkswagen Golf R and Nissan Z NISMO. Go to YouTube and search for reviews of the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS. You will find dozens, if not hundreds. Now look for reviews of the base 718 Cayman. You will be lucky to find a handful.

Nvidia's latest DLSS 4.5 update is, obviously, its best one yet. But the more I test it, the more I realize that not everyone needs it, at least not right now.

Paramount+'s movie library is deep enough that it's easy to spend more time browsing than watching. If you're wondering what to watch on Paramount+ this week, here are three can't-miss picks to add to your queue.

TL;DR: Right now, a 1-year BJ’s Club Card Membership is available for only $20 (reg. $60).

Opens in a new window Credit: BJ's Wholesale Club 1-year The Club Card Membership with BJ’s Easy Renewal® (Terms apply.) $20
$60 Save $40   Get Deal

Making a budget last is hard enough, but when you factor in things like the price of the gas you burn running errands all over town, you’re basically spending money for the opportunity to spend money. If you want a new way to get your shopping done, check out BJ’s. Whether you’re picking up bulk home essentials or grabbing all your groceries, they’ve always got something to offer, and a BJ’s Club Card Membership is only $20 right now (reg. $60).

BJ’s Wholesale Club is a place to shop for family essentials, including fresh foods, produce, deli items, household staples, and more. BJ’s members can save up to 25% off grocery store prices, but that’s not the only reason to shop there. You can also look out for new clothes, seasonal décor, toys, tech, and furniture.

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Tank running low? Fill up on your way out, and don’t forget you could get extra savings through the BJ’s Fuel Saver Program when you buy eligible products in the club. That’s a whole lot easier than making one more stop on top of all your other errands.

You don’t have to shop in-store to use the membership. BJ’s has an app that lets you shop online and choose curbside pickup or same-day delivery when it’s available in your area. You can also add digital coupons directly to your membership card, so the discount applies automatically at checkout.

This deal is for new members only and gives you a code you can redeem the code directly on BJs.com to create your membership.

Right now, it’s only $20 to get a BJ’s 1-Year Club Card Membership.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Dolphin is a fantastic emulator for Nintendo Wii and GameCube games. Now, it has added emulation support for the GameCube-like ‘Triforce’ system, allowing arcade titles like Mario Kart Arcade GP and F-Zero AX to run on modern computers and Android devices.

When you're shopping for a new NVMe SSD, you're met with an overwhelming number of specifications to consider, from PCIe generation and read/write speeds to DRAM presence and NAND type.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdomscontinues to prove that the Game of Thrones universe remains as strong as ever. The spin-off continues to garner high ratings on websites like IMDb, and the fifth episode just set a new record.

If you want an Android tablet without Google apps and services, there’s now another option to check out. The Murena Volla Tablet is now available in the United States and Canada, with a de-Googled /e/OS software experience right out of the box.

Buyers who have their eyes on a compact SUV have tons of options, so much so that it almost seems overwhelming. In the endless sea of SUVs, many of which now have “luxury-lite price tags,” Subaru is pushing forward with its popular Forester and doubling down on what has made it a staple for the last 30 years: rugged affordability. And in the case of the Hybrid model, increased fuel economy.

Upscaling and frame generation are critical features today, especially since game optimization has seemingly only gotten worse. If you're using a GPU that doesn't natively support either, you're in luck: There is a third-party option that works on any GPU.

The RAM shortage due to AI is impacting tech prices and release dates. In the video game space, the next PlayStation console may be delayed, and the Switch 2 could see a price spike, Bloomberg reports.

SEE ALSO: PlayStation State of Play February 2026: How to watch, top games we hope to see

Sony is considering pushing back the debut of the PlayStation 6 to 2028 or 2029, according to people familiar with the situation interviewed by Bloomberg. Mashable reported back in December that this might happen, so there's only been confirmation of the bad news. Previous leaks estimated the PS6's release for 2027.

Further, due to memory shortages, Nintendo is apparently considering increasing the price of the Switch 2 later this year, according to Bloomberg. In 2025, rumors surfaced about the Switch 2's price increasing due to tariffs, but that didn't materialize.

Neither Sony nor Nintendo responded to Bloomberg's request for comment.

Have you ever had your homelab down for maintenance, but really needed to access a mission-critical service that was hosted on it? I’ve been there, and I never want to go back. That’s why I have a VPS as part of my homelab setup—and you should too.

If you need an easy win for movie night or just having the boys over this week, try these three Netflix flicks on for size. They swing from ridiculous raunchy comedy to a full-on pew-pew-pew alien adventure.