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The best Netflix movies of 2024 now streaming

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 11:00

What are the best new movies on Netflix? With the streaming service offering a wide array of comedies, action movies, thrillers, and more, it can be difficult to choose what to watch. Sure, Netflix aims to promote their latest releases to grab your attention. But just because it's new doesn't mean it's worth your time.

Fret not. We've done the hard part for you. Below, you'll find the very best Netflix original films of 2024, now streaming. Whether you want something heartwarming, mind-bending, pulse-racing, funny-bone-tickling, or gut-wrenching, we've got you covered with the top tier of Netflix's new dramas, docs, true crime, animated movies, action-adventures, and more.

22. How to Rob a Bank

Netflix's true crime section is so vast that it can be difficult to pluck the treasures from the trash. For every Amanda Knox, there's a bunch of unsavory options. Thankfully, Amanda Knox producer Stephen Robert Morse teamed with Class Action Park director Seth Porges for this curious bank robber bio-doc, How to Rob a Bank.

Brought to life with animated reenactments, news footage, home movies, and a slew of interviews, the film unfurls the stranger-than-fiction story of a bank robber known to the police as "Hollywood." This was because he had a penchant for modeling his crimes after movies (Point Break chief among them) and used prosthetic makeup to successfully disguise his face. But who was the man behind the mystique? Talking with the cops who tracked him and the family and friends who loved him, How to Rob a Bank explores that complicated question with unsettling results. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: How to Rob a Bank is now streaming on Netflix.

21. Damsel

She's a damsel. She's in distress. She can handle this. Have a nice day. Millie Bobby Brown gives one of her strongest performances to date in Damsel, Juan Carlos Fresnadillo's film about a princess named Elodie who's yeeted into a dragon's lair by her extremely fresh prince husband (Nick Robinson) on their wedding day. But what seems like quite a flippant premise actually ends up being a kick-ass survival film.

There are plenty of surprises as Elodie scrambles to escape the cave using only her dress for equipment, before solving the mystery of why the hell she was thrown in there in the first place. Robin Wright and Angela Bassett are impeccable as the cold Queen Isabelle and Elodie's loving stepmother, Lady Bayford, respectively. As Belen Edwards wrote in her review, "Yes, Damsel isn't like most other fairy tales. But with its blend of dark fantasy and themes of self-empowerment, it makes for a gripping story that's great fun to experience." — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

How to watch: Damsel is now streaming on Netflix.

20. Spaceman

When Adam Sandler teams up with Netflix, the results are often willfully stupid comedies like Hubie Halloween, The Do-Over, and the infamously repugnant Western The Ridiculous 6. But the Sandman's been on a roll recently, with the sweet coming-of-age comedy You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah, which stars his real-life daughters; the charming animated musical Leo; and this bizarre and bittersweet sci-fi drama about a sad astronaut and a giant space spider voiced by Paul Dano.

Directed by Johan Renck and written by Colby Day, Spaceman (which is based on Jaroslav Kalfar's novel Spaceman of Bohemia) stars Sandler as Czech astronaut Jakub Prochazka, who is six months deep on a solo mission. Back on Earth, his pregnant wife (Maestro's Carey Mulligan) is seriously considering dumping his oft-space-trekking butt. Enter Hanus, a giant, talking space spider who loves the hum of a toilet, the taste of Nutella, and giving life advice to his "skinny human" friend. Spaceman is as unexpected as it is surreal and strangely enchanting. — K.P.

How to watch: Spaceman is now streaming on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: The best sci-fi movies on Netflix to escape reality 19. Emilia Pérez

French filmmaker Jacques Audiard has previously wowed critics with dramas like Rust and Bone, A Prophet, and The Sisters Brothers. Now, he traverses daring new terrain with a musical with a telenovela plotline. Its story begins with a cartel boss (transgender telenovela star Karla Sofía Gascón), who is looking to leave a life of crime behind and become the woman she's always believed she could be. This means transitioning through medical procedures, faking her death, and changing her name to Emilia Pérez. However, the film that bears her name also weaves in the dramatic journeys of the women around her, including her oft-stressed lawyer (Zoe Saldaña), the wife she leaves behind (Selena Gomez), and her new love interest (Adriana Paz). Passionate and provocative, it's a musical that dances to its own beat.

In his Mashable review out of Cannes, Siddhant Adlakha wrote, "The Spanish-language Cannes title not only won Audiard the Jury Prize — the festival's third most prestigious accolade — but it was also awarded the Best Actress trophy to not one but four of its central performances, each of which brings a unique thoughtfulness and passion to the screen... Above all else, the film's four leading ladies are perfectly attuned to Audiard's volatile mixture of operatic emotion and naturalistic cinematic influence. The result is a dazzling, dramatic high-wire act that's always fun to watch, and is frequently invigorating, too."* — K.P.

Starring: Zoe Saldaña, Karla Sofía Gascón, Selena Gomez, and Adriana Paz

How to watch: Emilia Pérez is now streaming on Netflix.

18. The Greatest Night in Pop

Travel back to 1985, when some of the biggest names in music — Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jackson, Cyndi Lauper, Willie Nelson, Bette Midler, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, and more — came together for a charity single in hopes of making a better world.

Centering on interviews with the artists and technicians who made the charity single "We Are the World," this delightful doc is full of flashy anecdotes, zinging one-liners, and even some heartache. (You deserved better, Sheila E.!) While plenty of interviewees offer fun and insights, Lionel Richie, who also produced the doc, proves the MVP, providing not only plenty of context, but also some stellar impressions of Michael Jackson and his exotic pets.*K.P.

How to watch: The Greatest Night in Pop is now streaming on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: The 35 best documentaries on Netflix 17. The Union

Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry team up for an action-comedy that is surprisingly charming! He's a Boston everyman who works construction by day and by night hooks up with local hotties (including his former seventh-grade English teacher). She's a globe-trekking secret agent — and his high school girlfriend — who shows up at their old dive bar out of the blue to invite him in on a secret mission. Together, they're working for The Union.

Explosive espionage action blends with rom-com chemistry as Wahlberg and Berry delve into car chases, gun fights, and plenty of bouncy banter. J.K. Simmons brings gruff bravado, while Evil's Mike Colter delivers breathtaking swagger. Full of thrills, fun, and verve, The Union is a great pick for movie night at home. — K.P.

How to watch: The Union is now streaming on Netflix.

16. Orion and the Dark

Charlie Kaufman, the brilliantly twisted mind behind movies like Being John Malkovich, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and I'm Thinking of Ending Things, tried his hand at family-friendly fare in 2024 with Orion and the Dark.

Centering on a fearful 11-year-old boy (voiced by Jacob Tremblay), this adaptation of Emma Yarlett's children's book follows Orion on an adventure way past bedtime, when the Dark he feared comes out of hiding to introduce himself. Together, they travel the world with the creatures of night and learn what wonders can come from confronting what scares you. An animated adventure about the anxieties of children and their grown-ups, Orion and the Dark is a winsome and weird wonder for all ages. But maybe don't watch it right before bed. It's not nightmare fuel, but it's so surreal it could toy with your dreams! — K.P.

How to watch: Orion and the Dark is now streaming on Netflix.

15. Maria

"'Come with me,' said the diva, and there was really no need to ask where." Angelia Jolie gives an exquisite performance as prima donna assoluta Maria Callas in Pablo Larraín's latest biopic, another of the Spencer director's introspective, finely focused films about a famous, publicly scrutinised woman.

Wandering the gilded halls of her Parisian apartment in magnificent outfits and dropping erudite one-liners on her staff, we find the iconic opera singer retreated from public life, with her health in steep decline, mere days before her death at 53. Through a series of surreal chapters, Maria reflects on her life of audience adulation, esteemed opera career, suppressed trauma, and complicated love affairs — while her beloved butler and housekeeper watch her lose touch with reality. "What is real and what is not real is my business," she quips.

Both a complex ode to a true diva and a fleeting overview of Callas' seemingly glittering life in opera, Maria is indeed a film about music, bursting with music, with Larraín wielding silence as a brutal reminder of loss for his proud protagonist. And while lip-synching is an art form that's gone either way for music biopic stars, Jolie makes you feel every one of Callas' notes. — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

How to watch: Maria will be in select cinemas on Nov. 27 before streaming on Netflix on Dec. 11.

14. Joy

If you don't know about the beginnings of IVF, and what a landmark moment this was, you need to see Joy. Set in the late '60s and early '70s (with all the detailed costumes and intricate set details that go with it), Ben Taylor's excellent debut directorial feature follows the British scientists who pioneered in vitro fertilization. The core cast — Thomasin McKenzie as nurse/embryologist Jean Purdy, James Norton as scientist Robert Edwards, Bill Nighy as surgeon Patrick Steptoe, and Tanya Moodie as operating theatre supervisor Muriel Harris — give brilliant performances as the persevering medical professionals who successfully worked toward the birth of Louise Joy Brown, the first baby born through IVF, on July 25, 1978.

The film not only explores the groundbreaking scientific innovation of this group, but also sees them facing battles on all fronts, within their crucial, difficult research, among their peers, and with the public — church, state, you name it, they're up against it. Joy makes plenty of room to humanize and reflect on the bravery and sustained hope of the self-named "Ovum Club," the courageous women who trialled early forms of IVF with the group, and includes beautiful, moving, deeply personal conversations around infertility as a medical issue under immense social pressure. — S.C.

How to watch: Joy is streaming on Netflix Nov. 22.

13. Ultraman: Rising

Forget Iron Man and Superman, and get ready for the epic adventures of Ultraman! The Japanese sci-fi hero has been the subject of TV shows, movies, and comic books dating back to 1966. But even if you're not up on all that, don't worry, because Ultraman: Rising is a terrific entry point for those new to the franchise.

Directed by Shannon Tindle, Ultraman: Rising is a vivid, animated action-comedy that centers on pro-baseball player Kenji "Ken" Sato (voiced by Days of Our Lives' star Christopher Sean) as he takes on the mantle of Ultraman. This means not only donning the signature masked, metal super suit and growing to massive size to battle kaijus, but also keeping his identity secret from the press — including keen-eyed reporter Ami Wakita (Julia Harriman). This balance becomes even more precarious when Ken accidentally adopts a baby kaiju, who is as adorable as she is catastrophically destructive. (So, basically your average toddler, but giant, with laser vision!) Packed to the brim with humor, heart, action, and parent-child bonding, Ultraman: Rising is the feel-good superhero 2024 needed. — K.P.

How to watch: Ultraman: Rising is now streaming on Netflix.

12. The Platform 2

Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia's sequel takes us back to the nightmarish world of the original: A vertical prison with a table of food that travels slowly from the top to the bottom, with the prisoners at the top eating well — and the ones at the bottom starving to death.

"The original's nightmarishly simple concept was so compelling I wanted to see more from that world, but I also worried about what a sequel could say or show that the first movie hadn't," I wrote in my Mashable review. "I'm happy to report my fears weren't necessary. The Platform 2 is a powerful continuation of the bad dream that began with Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia's 2019 movie, building upon its brutalist universe while changing the rules just enough to send a new message."

Oh, and if you get to the end and you're scratching your head a bit, we have an explainer here. — Sam Haysom, Deputy UK Editor

How to watch: The Platform 2 is now streaming on Netflix.

11. Daughters

This heartfelt documentary from directors Angela Patton and Natalie Rae explores the father-daughter relationships between four young Black girls and their incarcerated dads. More specifically, Daughters shows both sides of this bond as they prepare for a daddy-daughter dance, which is held within prison facilities to aid fathers in nurturing their connection even while incarcerated. At this lovely event, the girls will wear finery and their fathers don suits, and all get to share a dance and make treasured memories.

In Mashable's review, critic Monica Castillo cheered, "Daughters is easily one of the best documentaries you'll see all year. It's enlightening, it's moving, and it's stunning to watch. Patton and Rae focus on the experience of four little girls to illustrate such a specific loss that's often overlooked in conversations about the criminal justice system. The documentary leaves you with more to think about, some tears to dry, and perhaps the feeling you should call your dad to tell him you love him." — K.P.

How to watch: Daughters is now streaming on Netflix.

10. Power

This brand-new doc from Oscar-nominated writer/director Yance Ford (Strong Island) examines the history of policing in the United States, from its roots in frontier militias, slave patrols, and strike-breaking to the symbiotic relationship of modern policing and the military, the murder of George Floyd, and Biden's "fund the police" speech. Ford's deft directorial hand, extensive archival footage, and voice-over asking viewers to be curious — if not downright skeptical about who the police serve and protect — makes this vital viewing. The scholarly interviews are grounded by time spent with Minneapolis Police Inspector Charlie Adams, who comes across as thoughtful and deeply empathetic. 

While it's not a particularly easy watch, Ford is especially considered about how this may affect viewers. (Watching footage of a person being murdered is, despite what social media may have you think, not your responsibility, and it is traumatizing.) As he told Netflix, "We chose to obscure the George Floyd murder in a way that completely blots out Mr. Floyd on the ground, but also as a result, highlights the officer and the two people who were demanding that he check Mr. Floyd’s pulse. In that way, one of the things that we achieved was this focus on who was complicit in Mr. Floyd’s murder and who had power to intervene but chose not to." It's this sort of brilliance in filmmaking and editing (kudos to co-writer/editor Ian Olds) that makes Power unmissable. — Jenni Miller, Contributing Writer

How to watch: Power is now streaming on Netflix.

9. It's What's Inside

One of the most mind-bending movies of 2024 begins with a slasher setup: Years after a dramatic falling-out, a gaggle of college friends reunite on the eve of one of their crew's wedding to reconnect and party hard. But rather than a masked killer in their midst, the mayhem device in this clever thriller from writer/director Greg Jardin is a party game that offers players the power to swap bodies. Dare to give it a go?

Slipping into the skin of lovers, frenemies, and rivals, these twentysomethings flirt, fight, and deceive until a deadly turn raises the stakes. And every step of this movie is gleefully twisted. In his Mashable review, Siddhant Adlakha raved, "Wielding devilishly enjoyable visual language, it provides winking hints of catharsis that make even its most audacious, galaxy-brained genre swerves feel like a couple's therapy session atop the world's tallest, fastest roller coaster. It's a frenetic and fascinating film that can't be missed." — K.P.

How to watch: It's What's Inside is now streaming on Netflix.

8. The Kitchen

Kibwe Tavares and Daniel Kaluuya's film The Kitchen is more than a sci-fi drama set in near-future London; it's a sharp commentary on privatization and oppression, police brutality, and the power of community resistance. It's also Kaluuya's directorial debut, and a hell of a watch.

Protagonists Izi (Top Boy star Kane Robinson) and Benji (Jedaiah Bannerman) live within the titular neighborhood known as The Kitchen, the last remaining bastion of independent housing in London. Plagued by brutal police raids and skint resources, the community is constantly under threat. It's a brilliantly shot, superbly acted, and all-too-real cautionary tale. — S.C.

How to watch: The Kitchen is now streaming on Netflix.

7. The Imaginary

Director Yoshiyuki Momose, who had a hand in such Studio Ghibli classics as Spirited Away and Porco Rosso, offers a fresh tale of adventure with this animated darling.

The Imaginary centers on Rudger, a blonde boy who is the devoted imaginary friend to a mischievous little girl named Amanda. Together, they can get up to all kinds of extraordinary adventures. But when a strange man begins poking around, seeking to steal Rudger away, the boy will have to rely on his newfound community of "imaginaries" to get back to Amanda and save her from emotions so big they could swallow her whole. Featuring voice work from Louie Rudge-Buchanan, Evie Kiszel, Hayley Atwell, Sky Katz, Jeremy Swift, Kal Penn, LeVar Burton, and many more, this Netflix original is as full of charm as it is astounding visuals. — K.P.

How to watch: The Imaginary is now streaming on Netflix.

6. Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F

Coming back onto the scene 30 years after Beverly Hills Cop III flopped, this fourth installment of the comedic crime-solving adventures of Detroit police officer Axel Foley has no right to be as good as it is. Not only did screenwriters Will Beall, Tom Gormican, and Kevin Etten have to manage how public opinion has shifted when it comes to cops who play by their own rules, but also how to approach Axel's wise-cracking sense of humor that traditionally put just about everyone in its crosshairs. Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F manages both in a way that gives fresh life to the character without casting aside the fans who loved his wild ways.

As I wrote in my rave review, "Eddie Murphy is as good as ever as Axel Foley." Plus, he's got his old friends, like John Ashton, Judge Reinhold, Paul Reiser, and Bronson Pinchot back and in action. It's an absolute blast to see all these energies colliding, and yet there's room for newcomers, like the dynamic Taylour Paige and the ever-solid Joseph Gordon-Levitt, both of whom prove to be compelling foils to the ever-quipping Murphy. "In the end, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F isn't just a great sequel, or an awesome action-comedy; it might just be the most entertaining movie of the year." — K.P.

How to watch: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is now streaming on Netflix.

5. The Remarkable Life of Ibelin

World of Warcraft provides an eye-opening look into a deceased gamer's online life in the documentary The Remarkable Life of Ibelin. The film introduces us to 25-year-old Mats Steen, who died in 2014 from Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Before he passed away, he spent much of his time gaming, leading his parents to believe that he led a solitary life. But when condolences and fond memories start pouring in from his fellow World of Warcraft players, they realize Mats was a key part of a vibrant community. 

SEE ALSO: 'The Remarkable Life of Ibelin' review: An equally remarkable doc about a 'World of Warcraft' player's inner life

Director Benjamin Ree brings Mats' time in WoW to life using animated recreations, showing how Mats, playing as his character Ibelin, fostered friendships in the game. Members of his role-playing guild also reveal the various ways in which he touched their lives. The result is a moving memorial to Mats that will certainly leave you teary, as well as a broader gesture to the power of online spaces and the digital ties that bind. — B.E.

How to watch: The Remarkable Life of Ibelin is now streaming on Netflix.

4. Rebel Ridge

Director Jeremy Saulnier serves up one of 2024's best thrillers with Rebel Ridge, an unforgettable look at corruption in small-town America featuring a star-making turn from Aaron Pierre (The Underground Railroad).

SEE ALSO: 'Rebel Ridge' review: Aaron Pierre and Jeremy Saulnier's cop corruption thriller will floor you

Pierre plays ex-Marine Terry, who's heading into the small town of Shelby Springs to post bail for his cousin. However, when cops pull him over and seize all his bail money, Terry's forced to take matters into his own hands. His quest to save his cousin leads him down a rabbit hole of town-wide corruption, all stemming from the deeply maddening practice of civil asset forfeiture. The ensuing stand-off between Terry and the cops is a tour de force of perfectly calibrated tension, courtesy of Saulnier. And while there isn't as much action as the film's trailer may have you believe, the buildup to every brawl — plus Pierre's commanding performance — gives each punch that much more weight. As I wrote in my review, Rebel Ridge "checks all the boxes any thriller aficionado could possibly want, and then some." — B.E.

How to watch: Rebel Ridge is now streaming on Netflix.

3. Hit Man

Richard Linklater and Glen Powell reunite for Hit Man, a rom-com that is killer in all senses of the word.

Powell plays Gary Johnson, a college professor whose side gig as an undercover hit man leads to an unexpected meet-cute with would-be client Madison (Andor's Adria Arjona). The pair's connection (and electrifying chemistry) sparks a delightful game of false identities, reinvention, and twisted love that toggles between hilarious, thrilling, and sexy at a moment's notice. Oh, who am I kidding; sometimes it's all three at once!*B.E.

How to watch: Hit Man is now streaming on Netflix.

2. His Three Daughters

One of Mashable's favorites out of TIFF 2023, His Three Daughters centers on a trio of sisters struggling to cope as their elderly father enters his final days of at-home hospice care. Stuck together in a cozy but emotionally claustrophobic New York City apartment, they face sibling rivalry, philosophical differences, and heated emotions.

Each member of writer/director Azazel Jacobs' cast is stellar. And as I wrote in my review, "His Three Daughters is a simple but elegant drama that grapples with the ugliness of grief and comes out with as happy an ending as a shattering death might bring. It's chaotic, charismatic, and ultimately cathartic." Don't pass it up.*K.P.

How to watch: His Three Daughters is now streaming on Netflix. 

1. Will & Harper

Since their early days at Saturday Night Live, Will Ferrell and Harper Steele have had a strong connection when it comes to comedy. This would flourish as they made movies together, including the sublime Lifetime movie parody A Deadly Adoption, the absolutely epic musical comedy Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, and now their most personal of all, Will & Harper. Helmed by Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar director Josh Greenbaum, this documentary follows the two longtime friends and colleagues on a road trip across America, as they navigate what their friendship means now that Harper has come out as a trans woman.

While her devoted pal is by her side at visits to dive bars, pro basketball games, and a surly Texas steakhouse, not all of the Americans they run across are so welcoming. Through this vulnerable and wonderfully vibrant film, this dynamic duo offers plenty of jokes, but also a thoughtful exploration of what it means to be trans in America in this moment. In Mashable's review out of TIFF, I declared, "Will & Harper is a resoundingly joyful and moving documentary, resplendent in its openness. It's their love story, and it's glorious." — K.P.

How to watch: Will & Harper is now streaming on Netflix.

* denotes that this blurb appeared in a previous Mashable list.

Categories: IT General, Technology

The best dating apps for professionals in 2024

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 11:00

It’s officially cuffing season, so if you’ve been craving a little romance, you're not alone. Unfortunately, waiting for a meet-cute by happenstance isn't always realistic (it's not impossible, but the actual chances are pretty low). This is especially true when your busy lifestyle involves late nights responding to emails (et al.), juggling clients and side hustles, and just generally trying to have it all as a modern-day professional with a demanding career.

So, how does one find the time to meet people IRL when happy hour is a far-fetched fantasy? Enter: The best dating apps for professionals.

Wait! Before you back out of this one, hear us out. Online dating doesn’t have to mean swiping left or right on Tinder before bed and hoping for the best. In today’s fast-paced world, where finding a healthy work-life balance is the epitome of success, dating apps can actually be a really useful tool for single professionals looking for love, or at the very least, a few decent dates.

SEE ALSO: Dating predictions for the rest of 2024

But not just any dating app will do. We’re talking about higher-tier dating apps curated for singles who value their time (what little they have) and take their careers as seriously as their romantic lives. These apps focus on quality over quantity, so you can be confident you’re connecting with potential partners who admire your ambition and drive.

If you’re ready to forego the awkward, almost-maybe-not relationships and immaturity that typically come with the mainstream dating app experience, we have some options for you.

What dating apps do successful people use?

If you want to cut right to the chase: Based on our testing, we think Match is the best dating app for professionals, but runner-ups Raya, Bumble, and The League are also worth downloading.

SEE ALSO: TikTok is obsessed with the 'power struggle stage' of relationships. But what is it?

To help you skip the swiping fatigue and find your perfect match, we've curated this guide to the best dating apps for professionals. And trust us, investing in a paid app is worth it — think of it as a personal filter for weeding out the time-wasters.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 4, 2024

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:53

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 the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

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

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

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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.

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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 December 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: Touchdown preventers

  • Green: Teams near Kitty Hawk

  • Blue: "Drop goal" not included

  • Purple: Bygone hoop groups

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: Defensive Actions in Football

  • Green: Teams in North Carolina

  • Blue: Rugby Lingo

  • Purple: Former WNBA Franchises

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 #68 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today
  • Defensive Actions in Football - DEFLECTION, INTERCEPTION, SACK, TACKLE

  • Teams in North Carolina - HORNETS, HURRICANES, TAR HEELS, WOLFPACK

  • Rugby Lingo - MAUL, RUCK, SCRUM, TRY

  • Former WNBA Franchises - COMETS, MONARCHS, STARZZ, STING

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 the latest Connections.

Categories: IT General, Technology

My go-to budget-friendly Samsung TV is $150 off for a limited time

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:50

SAVE $150: As of Dec. 4, the Samsung 55-inch DU6900 Crystal UHD 4K Smart Tizen TV is available for $279.99 at Best Buy. That's $150 off its original price of $429.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 55-Inch Class DU6900 Series $279.99 at Best Buy
$429.99 Save $150.00 Shop Now

The Samsung DU6900 features a Crystal Processor 4K, which delivers solid clarity and vibrant colors that most TVs at this price point won't touch. Thanks to its 4K upscaling technology, even non-4K content gets a noticeable boost in quality. Features like Mega Contrast and HDR ensure every scene is rich with detail, although don't expect those old episodes of Dallas to jump out of the screen. It'll look at its best, but this TV is a good deal built with decent specs, not magic.

Samsung's Motion Xcelerator reduces lag and blur, making fast-paced action look smooth and natural. Need a decent gaming TV but money is tight? This is a solid option, with the same going for movies, TV, and sports. Sound snobs will love the Object Tracking Sound Lite feature, putting out a surround sound experience that matches the movement on-screen. Pair it with a Samsung Q-series or S-series soundbar for an even more immersive audio setup using Q-Symphony. Or better yet, grab yourself a solid pair of PSB Alpha iQ wireless bookshelf speakers for a crisp audio experience without the wires.

SEE ALSO: Ready to upgrade your smartphone? Grab the Samsung Galaxy A15 for less than $200

Streaming your favorite shows and movies is a breeze with Samsung's Tizen OS, which provides quick access to apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Samsung TV Plus. The latter offers free live TV content with just a WiFi connection, so you can dive into live sports, news, or popular shows without needing a cable subscription.

At just $279.99, this Samsung TV offers excellent value for its price. It's a no-nonsense deal where you get what you pay for, and that's a lot packed into a budget TV that does it all. Deals like this are usually limited, so if you want one, snap one up while it's on offer.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 4

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:49

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for December 4 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 4 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A hidden or underground chamber.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no reoccurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter C.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

CRYPT.

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 4

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Connections today: Hints, answers for December 4, 2024

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:48

Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

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

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

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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 December 4 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

  • Yellow: To direct

  • Green: Objects that point, sew, or spin

  • Blue: Legendary characters from ancient tales

  • Purple: Begins with terms for the restroom

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

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

  • Yellow: Steer

  • Green: Things with Needle/s

  • Blue: Figures in Greek Myth

  • Purple: Starting with Synonyms For Lavatory

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 #542 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Steer: DIRECT, GUIDE, LEAD, SHEPHERD

  • Things with Needle/s: COMPASS, PINE TREE, SEWING KIT, TURNTABLE

  • Figures in Greek Myth: ATALS, ECHO, HELEN, PAN

  • Starting with Synonyms For Lavatory: CANDLE, JOHNSON, LOOFAH, TOILETRIES

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 4

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.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for December 4, 2024

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:46

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 Wednesday, December 4, 2024:

AcrossTarget of the Clean Air Act
  • The answer is Smog.

It beats 6-Down, but not scissors
  • The answer is Paper.

___ acids
  • The answer is Amino.

Over-the-top excited
  • The answer is Manic.

Try to find
  • The answer is Seek.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 4 DownMessages that might be automatically deleted after 30 days
  • The answer is Spam.

Some parents, to their little ones
  • The answer is Mamas.

Conjecture out loud
  • The answer is Opine.

"Your wish is my command" speaker
  • The answer is Genie.

It beats scissors, but not 5-Across
  • The answer is Rock.

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.

Categories: IT General, Technology

NYT Strands hints, answers for December 4

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:40

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 December 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 4 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: I now pronounce you...

These words are used to modify how a letter sounds.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

Words are marks used in pronunciation.

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 Diacritics.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for December 4
  • Grave

  • Tilde

  • Acute

  • Umlaut

  • Circumflex

  • Cedilla

  • Diacritics

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

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

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

Categories: IT General, Technology

Ive tested dozens of TVs, and $600 off the TCL QM8 is a great deal

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:36

SAVE $600: As of Dec. 4, the TCL 65-inch QM8 QLED 4K TV is available for $899.99 at Amazon, a 40% discount off its usual $1,499.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 65-inch QM8 QLED 4K TV $899.99 at Amazon
$1,499.99 Save $600.00 Shop Now

While I was searching for perfect TVs with savage specs for gaming and movies, the TCL QM8 stood out for all the right reasons. Between its stunning picture quality, lightning-fast refresh rate, and innovative features, it checked every box and then some. If you've been waiting for a premium TV deal, now's your chance. Amazon has slashed $600 off the 65-inch model, dropping the price to $899.99.

Why should you care? The QM8 series is a flagship model from TCL's 2024 lineup. Its QD-Mini LED technology offers up to 5,000 local dimming zones, delivering impressive contrast and brightness. This TV makes every detail pop, from dossing to the latest blockbuster or gaming at full throttle (RGB makes you game faster, FYI). And with a peak brightness of 5,000 nits, it's ideal for any lighting environment, even those tricky midday glare sessions. We're looking at you blinds!

SEE ALSO: Ready to upgrade your smartphone? Grab the Samsung Galaxy A15 for less than $200

The TCL QM8 shines for gamers. Its Game Accelerator mode supports refresh rates up to 240Hz, giving you smooth, lag-free gameplay. Combining that with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, I can say this TV is a solid choice for console and PC gamers.

Do you just want a solid TV for streaming? TCL QM85 runs on Google TV, so all your favorite apps, such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and more, are ready to go. With Alexa compatibility and a handy voice remote too, controlling your entertainment has never been easier.

At $899.99, this price is tough to beat. According to CamelCamelCamel, this is the lowest price we've seen. But if history tells us anything, this deal could disappear fast. Don't wait until it's too late. TCL QM8 is a steal at this price. Get yours while you still can.

Categories: IT General, Technology

How to unblock Xnxx for free

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:27

TL;DR: Unblock your favorite porn sites with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites like Xnxx is ExpressVPN.

You might think you've got it all figured out, but access to your favorite porn sites is not always guaranteed. There are a number of locations around the world that will restrict your access to porn sites, which is probably a good idea. That being said, your right to online freedom is important. When the moment is right, you should be able to secure access to your favorite porn sites without hassle.

The good news is that there is a simple hack that can bypass geo-restrictions to unblock porn sites like Xnxx from anywhere in the world. If you're looking for the best way to unblock sites like Xnxx for free, we have all the information you need.

How to unblock Xnxx for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This quick and easy process bypasses geo-restrictions to access porn sites like Xnxx from anywhere in the world.

Follow these simple steps to unblock porn sites like Xnxx:

  1. Sign up for a 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 a location that supports access to Xnxx

  4. Access Xnxx 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 bypassing content restrictions are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Xnxx without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can retain access to porn sites when temporarily away from home.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the best service for fast and reliable unblocking of porn sites like Xnxx, 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

  • Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

  • 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.

Unblock Xnxx for free with ExpressVPN.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Integrate AI into Your Team’s Workflow

Havard Management Tip of the Day - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 06:01

AI isn’t just coming, it’s already here, reshaping industries and roles and how we define productivity. As a leader, you have the power to prepare your team for this transformative era by focusing on one critical asset: your people. Here’s how. Augment, don’t replace. Empower employees to offload repetitive tasks to AI, freeing time for […]

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Categories: Management

Get lifetime access to your own personal AI robot for only £32

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 06:00

TL;DR: Harness the power of AI and get a lifetime subscription to AI MagicX on sale for £31.63 (reg. £256.24) for a limited time.

Opens in a new window Credit: AI Magicx AI Magicx: Lifetime Subscription £31.63 at the Mashable Shop
£256.24 Save £224.61 Get Deal

Ever thought about having your very own robot that could help you do all the stuff you don't want to? While we're not offering one that can fold your laundry and do the dishes (yet!), there is a helpful AI generator and editor on sale today at the Mashable Shop

Imagine having a powerful AI tool at your fingertips that can generate high-quality text, stunning visuals, and professional designs with just a few clicks. Now you can with lifetime access to AI MagicX, on sale for £31.63 (reg. £256.24). No more staring at a blank screen or struggling with design software — now the robots do the heavy lifting for you.

Here are some of the services included with AI Magicx:

  • AI Logo Designer

  • MagicX Art Generator

  • AI Chatbots

  • AI Article Generator

  • AI Story Generator

  • Document Editor

What sets MagicX apart is its user-friendly interface and advanced capabilities. With this tool, you can easily and quickly create engaging blog posts, chat responses, social media content, marketing materials, and so much more. The AI-powered editor ensures that your content is not only visually appealing, but also grammatically perfect. You can use the design features to create stunning graphics and layouts without needing any prior experience.

By leveraging several different AI models, AI Magicx can save you on signing up for multiple subscriptions.

Score this great price on a lifetime subscription to AI MagicX on sale for only £31.63 for a limited time.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Meet the Eureka E10s robot vacuum

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 04:50

Robot vacuums have become an increasingly popular tool for maintaining a clean and tidy home with minimal effort, and over the past decade, the market has grown increasingly competitive. One of the more recent major players in the game is Eureka, and if you're looking for a way to simplify your cleaning routine, the Eureka E10s Robot Vacuum might be the solution you need.

What is the Eureka E10s?

The Eureka E10s is a hybrid robot vacuum and mop from Eureka that offers up a range of new features designed to streamline household cleaning. As a mid-range offering (RRP A$1,099), the E10s has a lot going for it. Ultra-high precision laser navigation and a 2L transparent dust cup design help protect the environment and save you money by eliminating the need to purchase dust bags. It’s self charging, with 180 minutes of continuous battery life, 4,000pa suction power, and an operating volume of 65Db. It can automatically detect your floor type to avoid wetting the carpet, has a range of smart features and tools to help it navigate a wide variety of surfaces and spaces and a powerful app that is fairly straightforward.

Want to know more? We’ve got you covered. Here are all the key features that the Eureka E10s brings to the table:

Self charging, and self-emptying

The E10s takes care of recharging itself. When the battery runs low, it automatically returns to its charging dock and resumes cleaning when fully charged. This feature saves you from having to monitor the vacuum, ensuring it’s always ready for the next cleaning session without wasting energy. The 2L super-sized dustbin can store up to 45 days' days of dust and floor debris.

Smart mapping & controls

The Eureka Smart Mapping technology quickly learns the layout of your home, with a scanning speed of 3.5 seconds per square metre. This helps it to clean efficiently straight away, covering every key area, avoiding obstacles, and minimising missed spots. This also allows you to create custom zones to direct the vacuum’s behaviour within the app, like focusing on specific rooms or high-traffic areas in your home.

Multi-surface functionality

Whether your floors are hardwood, tile, or carpet, the E10s automatically detects the floor in a room and adjusts to handle them all. Its suction power adapts to the surface, delivering effective cleaning across different floor types, and it will lift its cleaning cloth to avoid wetting carpet. This versatility means you won’t have to worry about changing settings manually.

Accessibility

The E10s is designed to be user-friendly, and is complimented by an impressively simple app. Its automated features and remote controls make it easy for anyone to use, including older people, the technologically illiterate or those with mobility challenges. With just a few taps on the app or a simple voice command using Alexa or Google Assistant, you can keep your home clean effortlessly.

Designed with pets in mind

If you have pets, you know how quickly hair and dander accumulate. The Eureka E10s is equipped with strong suction and specialised brushes to collect pet hair effectively. It can help you keep floors free from fur and allergens, creating a cleaner environment for you and your family.

Small and quiet

With its slim design, the E10s can clean under furniture and reach tight spaces that traditional vacuums might miss. It also takes up very little storage space, making it a good fit for small homes or apartments where storage space is limited. It also operates with minimal noise, so it can clean during the day while you work or at night without disturbing your sleep.

Instead of requiring you to constantly change out the bag in the charging dock like other robot vacuums, the Eureka E10s features a self-emptying base station where a transparent, reusable dust cup is used instead. Emptying the dust container works similar to traditional cyclonic vacuum cleaners, and an in-built HEPA filter helps to hold most particles inside.

Key specifications Credit: Eureka Is the Eureka E10s right for you?

For households with pets, busy schedules, or for those just seeking more accessible cleaning solutions, the Eureka E10s is a robot vacuum worth considering.  While it may feel like a large upfront investment, a decent robot vacuum and mop can save you money over time on professional cleaning services. Additionally, keeping floors consistently clean can help prevent damage caused by dirt and debris, potentially extending the life of your floors. While it may not replace deeper cleaning methods entirely, it can complement existing cleaning routines and help users maintain a more consistently tidy home. You can pick one up on Amazon in Australia here.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Top tech gifts for your the techie in your life

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 04:30

The holiday season is here, and it’s time to find the perfect gift for the tech lover in your life. We know it can be tough to choose the right gift, especially with so many tech-savvy people out there. To help you out, we've put together a list of innovative and practical gifts that will make any tech enthusiast happy. From the latest gadgets to essential accessories, there’s something for everyone on your list. Whether they’re a coding whiz, a gaming guru, or a smart home enthusiast, you’re sure to find the perfect gift to brighten their holiday.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Tesla suspends Cybertruck production. Who could have predicted this?

Mashable - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 01:05

Elon Musk is having a terrible, no good, very bad week.

First a judge struck down a stock grant that Musk persuaded Tesla shareholders to give him, in part by threatening to leave the company. That grant, originally worth around $50 billion, would now be $100 billion, thanks to a post-election rally for the company whose owner went all-in for the next president.

$100 billion: even for the world's richest man, currently worth $333 billion, that's real money. The grant would have doubled Musk's lead over the world's second-richest man, Jeff Bezos, in the all-important billionaires list.

But news that is subtly worse for Musk's long-term prospects just leaked out of Tesla's Austin factory: Cybertruck production appears to be ramping down. Workers on the vehicle's assembly line have been told that there's no need to report to work for 3 days.

According to Business Insider, which has four sources on the factory floor, this comes on the heels of several similar slowdowns in October. Not to mention an increase in cleaning and training duties to fill their hours, and a sharp decrease in overtime offers.

Tesla hasn't yet commented on the reason for the slowdown, but this is not what you would expect to see from a carmaker with a hit on its hands. Automotive companies usually see most of their sales in the spring, when potential customers get tax refunds and driving conditions improve. So if Tesla execs were anticipating banner sales in a few months, the Cybertruck factory should be cranking right this minute.

You wanna buy a Cybertruck?

Instead, Cybertruck inventory seems to be backed up — never a good sign when your job as a business is to shift it. Especially not good if you had two million pre-orders, because it suggests nearly all of those pre-orders, bar 50,000 or so, weren't serious. (Which, given that potential customers only had to put down a $100 deposit, seems a likely outcome.)

Normally, you shift inventory by lowering price. Tesla has instead raised the average price of the Cybertruck (the cheapest trim vanished from its website in August), even as its 350-mile range turns out to be lower than Musk promised.

This isn't just a detail for car nerds to care about. Because if there's any non-Trump-related fundamental driving Tesla stock growth at the moment, it's the uptick in Cybertruck sales (while other Tesla models have seen flat or diminishing market share). Some 28,000 of the oddly angular vehicles were sold in the first 3 quarters of 2024, according to estimates by Cox Automotive (Tesla doesn't break out its sales figures).

Analysts, in the aggregate, expected 48,500 Cybertrucks sold this year, so that's not a bad showing — certainly better than rival electric trucks from Rivian and Ford.

But here's the $100 billion question: Will Tesla get anywhere close to selling 250,000 Cybertrucks a year? That's the production capacity Musk has insisted on, and effectively bet the future of Tesla on. Given that the Cybertruck isn't for sale outside North America — and given its trouble with regulators in Europe and China, it isn't likely to happen any time soon — Musk's bet is almost entirely focused on the U.S. truck market.

Two million pickups are sold every year, so it seems reasonable to assume Tesla can grab an eighth of that total. But can it? Or is reality about to overwhelm Musk's "if you build it they will come" approach?

The Cybertruck has seen six recalls in 2024, a massive number in the car business. The most recent was just this month — thanks to a faulty part that may cause, wait for it, a loss of power to the wheels.

SEE ALSO: The Cybertruck's failure is now complete

You have to squint really hard to see the Cybertruck as anything other than the butt of recall-related jokes. Every week seems to bring with it a new report of Cybertruck owner woes on social media, from an expensive case of leaking oil to a massive systems failure during an outing for a protein shake. This winter may bring worse news for Musk, judging by the Canadian Cybertruck owner whose vehicle died after two hours of use, while he was trying to defrost it.

At least there is one silver lining for Musk. If Cybertruck sales are falling off a cliff, and if they start to take Tesla shares down with them, at least the stock grant Musk missed out on will be worth less than $100 billion. The question is, will he?

Featured Video For You This quirky EV dates back to the 1940s
Categories: IT General, Technology

Today's NYT Connections Hints and Answer for December 3 (#541)

How-To Geek - Wed, 12/04/2024 - 00:01

Connections is a game from the New York Times that challenges you to find the association between words. It sounds easy, but it isn't—Connections categories can be almost anything, and they're usually quite specific. If you need a hand getting the answers, we've got you covered.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Excel Is Introducing a Compatibility System for Old Spreadsheets

How-To Geek - Tue, 12/03/2024 - 23:51

Microsoft is adding a Compatibility Version system to Excel. This system should prevent new features and bugfixes from breaking old spreadsheets, though it may prove to be an annoyance for Office 2024 buyers.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Parks and Recreations Jim OHeir reveals behind-the-scenes stories from the beloved show

Mashable - Tue, 12/03/2024 - 23:13

Parks and Recreation is jam-packed with hilarious moments: from Jerry's "Fart Attack" to Leslie opening the door to reveal Andy stark naked. Jim O'Heir (Jerry Gergich) takes us through the stories that were happening around set that might be just as hysterical as the iconic on-screen moments.

Jim O'Heir's book, Welcome to Pawnee: Stories of Friendship, Waffles, and Parks and Recreation, is on sale now.

Categories: IT General, Technology

Threads is upgrading its search tools as Bluesky competition heats up

Mashable - Tue, 12/03/2024 - 22:17

Threads, in its ever-constant attempts for relevancy, is adding more search tools.

"We’re making it easier for you to search for specific posts here," the Threads account posted in a post on Threads. "In the search bar, tap on the menu on the right and you’ll see the option to refine your search by a profile and date range."

The post said that the update is rolling out globally over the next few weeks. Some people might have access to it now, while others might have to wait.

"If you don’t see it yet, you will soon 🫶," the post read.

This comes at a time in which people are leaving X in droves after Elon Musk seems to be doing everything in his power to ensure the destruction of the app formerly known as Twitter. Users seem to be flocking to Bluesky, but Threads is far from vacant — and it's doing its part to try to keep people interested.

SEE ALSO: Threads might adopt Bluesky’s starter packs

Search might seem like a bit of a late addition to any social media app, but apparently not. Any additional feature that might be similar to the current internet darling Bluesky or our former lover Twitter is a clear option for Meta to consider adopting. Just a few days ago, Threads appeared to lean into Bluesky's Starter Packs. If that doesn't make you post on Threads, I don't know what will.

Categories: IT General, Technology

One of my favorite robot vacuums Ive tested this year is still at Cyber Monday pricing

Mashable - Tue, 12/03/2024 - 22:07

SAVE $400: As of Dec. 3, the Roborock Qrevo Master robot vacuum with self-emptying and self-washing and drying mopping pad station is still on sale at its Cyber Monday price of $899.99 for Prime members. That's around 30% off.

Opens in a new window Credit: Roborock Roborock Qrevo Master $899.99 at Amazon
$1,399.99 Save $500.00 Cyber Monday pricing for Prime members Get Deal

Several Roborock Cyber Monday deals were so good that they sold out. This includes the $459.99 Qrevo S (now back in stock, but full price) that was Mashable readers' most purchased robot vacuum over Cyber Weekend and the $1,299.99 Qrevo Curv, which went viral and went out of stock in the span of a few days.

But a third member of the Qrevo family is one robot vacuum still at Black Friday/Cyber Monday pricing for Prime members. It happens to be the perfect happy medium price point between those other two models, and it also happens to be one of my favorite robot vacuums that I've tested in 2024. While you can, I'd recommend snagging the Roborock Qrevo Master on sale for $899.99, an intense $400 dip from its usual $1,399.99.

SEE ALSO: As a Dyson stan, I wouldn't tell anyone to buy the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum

There are several reasons why I've picked the Qrevo Master as the best robot vacuum overall — a crown that also extends to the best self-emptying robot vacuum, the most detail-oriented robot vacuum and mop combo, and the best robot vacuum for corner cleaning. At this point, I'm recommending it to most people over the more-powerful Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra, which is on sale for $1,499.99.

But in my opinion, what you lose slightly in suction power, you get back in more meticulous corner cleaning. This applies to both dry sweeping and mopping, the latter of which isn't even found with the pricier S8 MaxV Ultra. It's been the most likely hybrid model I've tested to successfully mop up drips and spills in corners or along door or cabinet edges, and this coverage is due to one of its spinning mopping pads being able to scoot out from under the vacuum. This provides a larger range of reach than what a mopping pad that just sits under a circular vacuum (that obviously doesn't fit nicely around edges) provides.

Credit: Leah Stodart / Mashable

There's also a FlexiArm for dry sweeping. Instead of relying on the traditional singular edge sweeping brush that don't do much more than fling debris the wrong way, this robotic arm also reaches out several inches and intentionally digs in corners with two smaller brushes.

After each cleaning session, the Roborock Qrevo Master returns to its dock to empty its own dust bin and wash and dry its own mopping pads. It can also clean specific rooms of your home through LiDAR-powered smart mapping, detect small obstacles like phone chargers, and keep an eye on your pets with a livestream pet camera.

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