Blogroll

Apple fans could be in for some pretty exciting launches in 2025. Like normal, we're expecting the brand to launch new iPhones this fall, but those who love their Apple home entertainment items are quietly getting excited. Apple rumors are afloat about new items that will be the go-to for streaming all the movies and TV shows that get us through dreary winter months. And we're hopeful they'll launch before the end of 2025.

A rumor is still a rumor until it's proven as fact, so there's still a chance this speculation might not come to fruition, but there's no harm in dreaming, right?

An upgraded Apple HomePod mini

Apple first launched the HomePod mini about five years ago, which means we're well due for the Apple HomePod mini 2 which is rumored to be dropping sometime before the end of 2025. The expectation is that it'll include a better chip, cutting down on response time.

The current HomePod mini comes with the S5 chip that's also found in the Apple Watch Series 5. It's possible Apple will upgrade this to a newer chip and MacRumors is guessing this could be the S11 chip that is likely to launch in the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, assuming those also arrive in 2025.

We'd also be down with new colorway options for the Apple HomePod mini 2. Currently colorway options are pretty bold, aside from the white and black. Getting a Starlight or Sky Blue option similar to that of the MacBook would be welcomed. If you're not down with waiting for the HomePod mini 2, you can snag the original HomePod mini for $99 at Apple.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple HomePod mini $99 at Apple
Shop Now A snappier Apple TV 4K

The current model of the Apple TV 4K came out in 2022 and has a A15 Bionic chip. According to Apple's own code, it seems as if that's getting an upgrade to the A17 Pro chip, which could spell big performance improvements. The A17 Pro chip is also capable of supporting Apple Intelligence, which requires 8GB of memory. That would mean the Apple TV 4K could be in line for doubling the current storage space from 4GB up to 8GB.

Again, if you're not willing to wait around for the new model to drop, you can still snag the current model for $149.99 at Best Buy.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple TV 4K $149.99 at Best Buy
Shop Now

After a years-long patent dispute with the medical device maker Masimo, Apple announced today that the popular Blood Oxygen reporting feature will be returning to the Apple Watch. In a blog post, Apple said the feature will be available later today for U.S. customers with the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 after users update their iPhones to iOS 18.6.1 and their smartwatch to watchOS 11.6.1.

The blog post reads, "Following this update, sensor data from the Blood Oxygen app on Apple Watch will be measured and calculated on the paired iPhone, and results can be viewed in the Respiratory section of the Health app. This update was enabled by a recent U.S. Customs ruling."

Back in 2023, just before the holiday shopping season, the newly released Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 were pulled from shelves in the U.S. due to the dispute with Masimo. The company was also prohibited from importing new Apple Watches with the feature, as Mashable reported at the time. The medical device maker claimed Apple had violated its patent in designing the blood oxygen feature, and the International Trade Commission ruled in Masimo's favor.

The disputed pulse oximetry feature could be used to measure the level of oxygen in the blood, which can be helpful data for athletes and people with respiratory health problems.

Now, the feature will be returning to Apple Watches.

As Apple said in its blog post, the update is possible thanks to a new ruling in Apple's favor. Apple had filed a tit-for-tat suit against Masimo, claiming the company had actually violated Apple's patents. According to Bloomberg Law, Apple won a grand total of $250 in the appeals court ruling, with an Apple attorney saying "We're not here for the money" in the company's closing arguments.

In addition, Apple says the latest news will not impact "Apple Watch units previously purchased that include the original Blood Oxygen feature, nor to Apple Watch units purchased outside of the U.S."

The Apple Watch Series 10 is already a popular fitness tracker, and the return of Blood Oxygen reporting will be welcome news for many customers.

SEE ALSO: Apple Watch Series 10 review: Buy it for the faster charging Products featured in this story Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 42mm, Black, S/M 130-180mm, Sports Band) $399.00 at Best Buy Shop Now Apple Watch Ultra $781.99 at Amazon Get Deal Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 41mm) $389.99 at Amazon Get Deal

SAVE $100: As of Aug. 14, the Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro, 128GB, WiFi) is on sale at Amazon and Best Buy for just $399, down from $499. That's a savings of 20%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Mini (A17 Pro, 128GB, WiFi) $399 at Amazon
$499 Save $100 Get Deal

With all of the new, updated iPads in Apple's lineup, choosing the right one for you has become a bit of a guessing game. Fortunately, we've tested them all and can help you make the best choice. For those seeking the most compact and portable Apple tablet for reading, streaming, or scrolling on the go, look no further than the seventh-generation iPad mini.

As of Aug. 14, the Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro, 128GB, WiFi) is on sale for just $399 at both Amazon and Best Buy. That's $100 (or 20%) off its list price, and just $20 shy of its best-ever price from Prime Day.

SEE ALSO: The 13-inch Apple iPad Air M3 is $150 off at Amazon — it’s a laptop replacement in disguise

The latest iPad mini packs some pretty predictable upgrades, but they're welcome nonetheless. The seventh-generation model packs an A17 Pro chip, a boost in RAM, Apple Intelligence compatibility, and a starting storage of 128GB. If you're used to a standard size iPad, you'll be pleasantly surprised by how light and maneuverable it is. It weighs just over half a pound and is only 8.3 inches long, making it just about an inch and a half bigger than a Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition. Plus, it has an anti-reflective coating to help you read in any lighting, which is why it's our top choice if you're purposefully seeking an iPad that can double as an e-reader.

Mashable's reviewer Stan Schroeder writes, "If you're new to the iPad, and you want the most compact one around (or any compact tablet), the new iPad mini 7 is the best choice." And if you want to save some money, we suggest grabbing it while it's down to just $399.

SAVE 20% WITH QUALIFYING PURCHASE: As of Aug. 14, get the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 for $319.99, down from its usual price of $399.99 at Amazon when you make a qualifying Samsung purchase. That's $80 off as part of a limited time offer.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 $319.99 at Amazon
$399.99 Save $80 Save 20% when you make a qualifying Samsung purchase. Get Deal

Ready to upgrade your smartwatch? If you're firmly Team Android, the Galaxy Watch lineup is one that you should explore. The most recent iteration, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8, is up for grabs at a significant discount thanks to a deal that's live at Amazon right now. Coincidentally, it makes right now a great time to pick out a new Samsung smartphone as well.

As of Aug. 14, get the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 for $319.99, down from its usual price of $399.99 at Amazon, when you make a qualifying Samsung purchase. That's $80 off and a discount of 20% as part of a limited time offer. To get this discount, you must choose one of the devices available for a qualifying purchase. They range from the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7. Choose an item, add it to your cart, and check out with both items in there. The discount will be automatically applied.

SEE ALSO: Galaxy Watch 8 review: Hey, I like the Squircle design

This watch includes a wide variety of health and fitness tracking features in addition to options for comms, including sleep coaching, a running coach, heart rate sensor, and much more. It's also much sleeker, with a newly-designed silhouette and an improved look overall. Though many of its changes are iterative, it's a large step up from the previous model.

Mashable's Adam Doud praised the watch for its "bright display, smart software updates, attractive build, and smart health features" in his review.

"I love the classy look, the software is really tight, and the Google Gemini integration is a big perk," Doud wrote, awarding the watch a 4.6 out of 5 score and the Mashable Choice Award.

It's got multiple changes to explore if you're already a fan of the line, but even if you're coming into it fresh, it's a powerful smartwatch in its own right, and worth picking up with this bundled discount.

We were left with so many burning questions at the end of Wednesday Season 2, Part 1, that it feels like the titular stormy protagonist of the series (Jenna Ortega) has been gleefully torturing us with suspense. What's going to happen after the sh*tshow at Willow Hill? Who is Ophelia? And where in the abracadabra is Lady Gaga?

Now, we've got a first look at the second part of the Netflix series, and it looks like all hell (and hyde) is going to break loose. The biggest surprise is the return of Gwendoline Christie as the dearly departed Principal Weems, and what sounds like Lady Gaga's voice at the end of the trailer.

Showrunners Alfred Gough and Miles Millar brought the Edgar Allan Poe vibes already this season, fixing the love triangle problem of Season 1, and paying sneaky homage to The Addams Family movies. So we're as excited as Uncle Fester (Fred Armisen) in a psychiatric ward cell with a zombie to get into the second half of Season 2.

Wednesday Season 2 Part 1 is now streaming on Netflix. Part 2 premieres Sept. 3.

Insta360 announced new drone brand Antigravity last month, teasing that its debut product would be the "world's first" consumer aerial drone with inbuilt 360-degree video capture. Now Antigravity has unveiled said drone: the Antigravity A1.

SEE ALSO: Insta360's new drone brand Antigravity teases world first 360-degree camera drone

As revealed in July, the Antigravity A1 will record 360-degree video in 8K resolution, weigh 249g, and be capable of detecting payloads to prevent it from being used for purposes other than filming. Today Antigravity shared further details, as well as the first images of the A1.

Credit: Mashable edit: Antigravity Credit: Mashable edit: Antigravity

As hinted by its light weight, Antigravity states that the A1 will be a compact drone, with released imagery demonstrating that its rotor arms will neatly fold up for storage or travel. Antigravity also confirmed that the A1's dual-lens camera system mirrors the one found in Insta360's X series of 360 cameras. The A1's two lenses will be mounted on the top and bottom of the drone's fuselage, with the footage then stitched together so that the drone does not appear in the resultant 360 footage.

Interestingly, Antigravity further revealed that the A1 is completely eschewing stick controls, taking a fresh approach to its piloting system. Drones are commonly piloted using stick controls, with users flying them with two thumb joysticks on a remote control. 

Instead, the Antigravity A1's controls appear similar to those used by virtual reality headsets. The A1 will be piloted using Antigravity's handheld Grip controller, its stick-like form factor with back trigger bearing a strong similarity to VR controllers such as the Meta Quest Touch Pro. This will be paired with Antigravity's Vision goggles, which users will wear while flying the A1. 

Credit: Mashable edit: Antigravity

Antigravity states that head tracking technology will enable users to look around in any direction, while flight will be controlled by hand gestures. They'll therefore be able to look in one direction while flying in another, rather than having to pivot to see what's around them. The company has emphasised that it is designing its drones to be intuitive to operate, so that they can be used by everyone from beginners to experts. 

Credit: Mashable edit: Antigravity Credit: Mashable edit: Antigravity

The Antigravity A1 is scheduled for release in January 2026, so it'll still be a few months before most people can get their hands on it. However, Antigravity will be sending out several pre-production models for select users to test, with their feedback to be incorporated into the final version of the drone. Contributors will also be in with a chance for a share of Antigravity's $20,000 reward pool, in case getting to try out the A1 early wasn't incentive enough. Applications are open on the company's website now.

Team Conrad girls, it really is our time. The third season of The Summer I Turned Pretty — Jenny Han’s swoony, sun-soaked YA romance brought to life on Prime Video — is well underway, and the rumors are true: Conrad Fisher has never been hotter. 

For the uninitiated, the show revolves around the arguably problematic love triangle at its center: Isabella "Belly" Conklin flip-flopping between the two sons of her mom's BFF, Conrad and Jeremiah Fisher. After harboring a crush on Conrad for most of her childhood, Belly and Jeremiah struck up a flirtation the summer she turned pretty hit puberty. She eventually dated Conrad, but after a series of miscommunications (most tied to the grief of losing his mother), she, feeling rejected, swore that she would never be with him again. By the start of season 3, Belly has been in a four-year (yes, four-year) relationship with Jeremiah, while Conrad has been secretly loving her from afar. 

SEE ALSO: The best Netflix TV shows of 2025 (so far)

What is it about Conrad that is so irresistible? Well, it's kind of hard to explain — it's sort of an "the girls that get, get it" situation. If you don't get it, let me try to explain. He's got a wardrobe filled with button-downs and crisp white tees. He's in therapy. He's always in the kitchen cooking or cleaning. He's yearning. He's got an analog watch, for crying out loud. And it sits oh so perfectly on that manly forearm with its light dusting of forearm hair. It's almost like he's one of the hotties from those calendars for women that exclusively feature hot men in kitchens come to life. And people are going absolutely feral for it.

"I would’ve jumped across that table idgaf," one fan wrote on X next to a GIF of Conrad. "This episode was trash but doctor conrad fisher was hot as hell," reads another post. A third post reads, "this is the summer everyone turned team conrad like i have never seen this much support for him before."

I've always been Team Conrad, don't get me wrong. But something about Conrad this season just hits different. And clearly, I'm not alone. 

How do I love thee, Conrad Fisher? Let me count the ways.

Conrad is dressing for the female gaze

Conrad Fisher is a man these days. And his clothes prove it. There are the linen button-downs, which he wears tucked in and sleeves rolled up—to flash a little forearm and watch, of course. Then there are the crisp James-Dean-daydream-white-T-shirts—which he will happily get absolutely covered in peach juice. 

"the way conrad’s s3 wardrobe is slutty husband. his hands and watch and rolled up sleeves just his whole vibe now," one viewer wrote in a post that has almost 30,000 approving likes.

Conrad (Christopher Briney) is modelling "slutty husband core" Credit: Erika Doss/Prime

Slutty husband core is female gaze-approved. Why? It's chic and timeless, yes, but it also feels safe. Just as Jonathan Bailey's slutty little glasses got the girls and gays going, I would argue that Conrad Fisher's slutty little watch is a sartorial symbol of the character's appeal as a new kind of male hero. Instead of impressing us with his macho manliness, he wins us over with his emotional maturity, his intellect, and his calm, steady nature. 

Conrad has never been so emotionally mature

In the first episode of season 3, we learn that Conrad has started going to therapy. This is, of course, very appealing if we are talking about the female gaze. A man who is able to self-reflect? Hot. 

Sure, Conrad fails to tell his therapist about Belly, aka the source of much of his trauma, but it's an A for effort.

And I would argue it's working. In episode 5, Conrad does something he's never really done before: he opens up to Belly. He gets vulnerable. He lets go of his pride. He tells her that he lost his job. And for him, that's huge. 

Conrad is a yearner

By this point, we all know that the girls love a little yearning. We went feral for the slow burn of Bridgerton season 2, right? 

Well, TSITP gives Conrad a whole lot of room to yearn. There is a lot of silent gazing. At this point, we've all seen the peach scene. Enough said.

Conrad is 'husband-coded'

One TikTok video captioned "so husband coded here" explains that Conrad "immediately hand-washing and drying all of the dishes he used is unreasonably hot."

To quote yet another viral video about Conrad, the man "wants a marriage not a wedding." While Jeremiah obsesses over his mirror-glaze dark chocolate wedding cake made with real cacao, Conrad quietly makes Belly food, takes her on her errands, picks up her bike (as if it were a feather, by the way), and just generally is total husband material.

Conrad vs. Jeremiah

Perhaps what is most appealing about Conrad this season is that he couldn't be further from Jeremiah — frat boy, professional whiner, manchild, and potential cheater Jeremiah. Jeremiah isn't ready for marriage. Hell, he can't even read his college requirements or remember to put on his own sunscreen. Dare I say it, what he wants is not a wife but a mother. On the other hand, Conrad is a fully functioning, self-sufficient grown-up who washes his own dishes and makes meals with vegetables in them and wears a watch. 

Jeremiah (Gavin Casalegno) is holding Belly back. Credit: Erika Doss/Prime

Of course, it's worth giving Jeremiah a teeny, tiny bit of credit here. The boy isn't evil. Like the rest of them, he's got his fair share of baggage that influences his behavior. His dynamic with Belly doesn't come from nowhere — it comes from a lifetime of playing second fiddle to his older brother. He longs to have all of the things Conrad seems to have without even having to try — good grades, his father's approval, and yes, Belly Conklin. Nevertheless, all of this psychoanalysis doesn't change the fact that this season, he's been holding Belly back.

On the other hand, Conrad is a fully functioning, self-sufficient grown-up who washes his own dishes and makes meals with vegetables in them and wears a watch. 

Jeremiah constantly puts himself first, forcing Belly to bend to his emotional whims. Conrad quietly, selflessly, puts her needs first. 

Example: When Jeremiah discovers he isn't graduating as expected (his own fault, by the way), he throws a tantrum and goes quiet. Belly comforts him the way one might comfort a toddler, placing his head in her lap and cooing at him. Belly is so wrapped up in Jeremiah's emotional breakdown, she decides to hide her own problems from him.

On the other hand, Conrad pays attention to Belly's problems. In fact, he senses them without her ever having to say a word. During a family dinner, Belly's mother offers to foot the bill. Belly carefully orders a cheap item from the menu. Jeremiah thoughtlessly orders the most expensive. Conrad, ever attuned to Belly, orders something cheap. What a mature king. 

And that, my friends, is hot.

SAVE OVER $30: As of Aug. 14, the Soundcore by Anker Space A40 earbuds are on sale for $44.58 at Amazon. This is 44% off and marks a return to their best-ever price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Soundcore Soundcore by Anker Space A40 Earbuds $44.58 at Amazon
$79.99 Save $35.41 Get Deal

Noise-canceling earbuds can be a pricy investment. Thankfully, there are some quality budget-friendly earbuds available that give you the opportunity to tune out the world while listening to your favorite songs at a lower price. And discounts are always welcome, which is the case right now with the Soundcore Space A40 earbuds.

The Soundcore Space A40 earbuds are currently on sale for $44.58. This is 44% off their list price of $79.99, allowing you to save $35.41. This marks a return to their lowest-ever price, so there's no better time to grab them. Other colors are also on sale right now, either a few cents or dollars away from this low price, so if another color catches your eye, you can still save.

SEE ALSO: The 8 best earbuds to buy in 2025, selected by Mashable audio experts

Whether you want them for travel, working out, or just to use while you're at home, the Soundcore Space A40 earbuds offer noise-canceling features that can reduce sounds around you by up to 98%. So, no matter where you are, you can keep focused on what you're listening to without the outside world interrupting. On top of that, they also offer high-quality sound courtesy of the double-layer diaphragm drivers and an incredible battery life that can last you up to 50 hours with the case.

They're currently listed as a limited-time deal, so act fast to grab Soundcore Space A40 earbuds at their best-ever price at Amazon. And if you're curious about other earbud options on sale, you can also score a great deal on the Beats Solo Buds right now at Amazon.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games 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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

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

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

• Yellow: Butt

• Green: Sporting equipment

• Blue: Wedding day essentials

• Purple: They sound similar

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: Derriere

• Green: Used to hit a ball in sports

• Blue: Components of a bride's ensemble

• Purple: Rhyming compound words

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 #796 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Derriere: BACKSIDE, CABOOSE, SEAT, TAIL

• Used to hit a ball in sports: BAT, MALLET, RACKET, STICK

• Components of a bride's ensemble: BOUQUET, BUSTLE, TRAIN, VEIL

• Rhyming compound words: BACKPACK, COOKBOOK, HUBBUB, NITWIT

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 August 4

Are you also playing NYT 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.

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 preferrined pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 4 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Honest-to-goodness

The words are authenticity-related.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are ways to describe realness.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Bonafide.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for August 14

• Real

• Authentic

• Genuine

• Bonafide

• Legitimate

• Kosher

• True

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.

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 August 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 August 4, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A toll.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter L appears twice.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter K.

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...

KNELL.

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 August 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.

Nicole Byer has only been guest hosting on Jimmy Kimmel Live! for three days, but she's already managed to land some solid blows on the president.

Wednesday night was no exception, with Byer playing a clip of Donald Trump announcing that he'll be hosting the upcoming Kennedy Center Honors.

Her response? "No you guys, I'm glad he's hosting this! I mean let him host the Emmys, the Grammys, a podcast with Theo Von, he could be the host at an Applebee's — anything that distracts him from running this country into the ground."

SAVE $170: As of Aug. 14, the 75-inch 2025 Roku Smart TV is on sale for $529.99 at Amazon. This is 24% off its list price of $699.99, allowing you to save $170.

Opens in a new window Credit: Roku Roku 75-Inch Smart TV (2025) $529.99 at Amazon
$699.99 Save $170 Get Deal

Finding a good TV deal doesn't just happen during major sales. Occasionally, retailers like Amazon will drop some great deals outside of these events that are worth jumping on, which is certainly the case today. If you've been on the hunt for something special, Amazon is offering an excellent discount on a 75-inch 2025 Roku Smart TV right now.

The 75-inch 2025 Roku Smart TV is usually listed for $699.99, but it's currently marked down to $529.99. This offers 24% in savings, allowing you to keep $170. It also marks its lowest-ever price on Amazon.

SEE ALSO: Need a new TV? The 75-inch TCL QM6K Mini LED TV is on sale for under $800

Not only does this Roku Smart TV boast a massive 75-inch size that's great for creating a mini movie theater at home, but you'll get great picture quality as well thanks to 4K resolution with colorful and bright HDR10 picture. And since it's a smart TV, you can have all of your favorite streaming apps in one convenient location to kick off your next movie night or TV show binge.

It's currently listed as a limited-time deal, so act fast to save on the 75-inch 2025 Roku Smart TV at Amazon. And if you're looking for a smaller TV to pick up instead, you can also save on the 43-inch Sony Class 4K Ultra HD Bravia 3 TV right now at Amazon.

SAVE $0.96: As of Aug. 14, the Pokémon TCG White Flare Elite Trainer Box is $83.99 at TCGPlayer, compared to $84.95 at Amazon. Plus, key singles from Black Bolt and White Flare are now cheaper than launch.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG White Flare Elite Trainer Box $83.99 at TCGPlayer
$84.95 Save $0.96 Get Deal

If you have been holding off on picking up the Scarlet & Violet White Flare Elite Trainer Box, the price gap between TCGPlayer and Amazon is not huge right now, but it is still in TCGPlayer’s favor at $83.99 vs. Amazon’s $84.95. Every dollar counts, especially if you are also looking to grab a few singles while the market is soft.

Amazon’s listing is already heavily discounted from the $109.99 list price, but what is interesting is that we are now seeing both sealed product and the set’s most valuable cards trending downward in price since launch. That is great news for collectors aiming to lock in their chase cards before they rebound.

SEE ALSO: Save over $16 on the Pokémon TCG Black Bolt Binder Collection when you skip Amazon’s markup

The ETB comes loaded with nine Scarlet & Violet White Flare booster packs, a full-art Tornadus promo, 65 matching sleeves, 45 Energy cards, a player’s guide, six damage-counter dice, a coin-flip die, two plastic condition markers, and a collector’s box with dividers. There is also a code card for Pokémon TCG Live.

For players, it is a well-rounded package with both cards and accessories for league play. For collectors, it is a chance to get the promo and themed storage while the singles market is favorable. Buying both sealed product and high-value singles right now could be the best play if you want to avoid paying more later.

With prices easing on the biggest pulls from Black Bolt and White Flare, this could be the perfect time to build your collection without breaking your budget.

Most valuable Black Bolt and White Flare Pokémon cards Credit: The Pokémon Company

Here are the most valuable cards you can pull in Black Bolt and White Flare right now. Don't want to leave it to chance? You can just buy them for the best price on TCGPlayer right now:

1. Victini – 172/086 – SV: White Flare
   Near Mint Holofoil: $450
   Market price: $474.25
   Value at launch: $500

2. Reshiram ex – 173/086 – SV: White Flare
   Near Mint Holofoil: $420
   Market price: $445.20
   Value at launch: $488.50

3. Zekrom ex – 172/086 – SV: Black Bolt
   Near Mint Holofoil: $400
   Market price: $406.80
   Value at launch: $499.50

4. Victini – 171/086 – SV: Black Bolt
   Near Mint Holofoil: $430
   Market price: $430
   Value at launch: $440

5. Zekrom ex – 166/086 – SV: Black Bolt
   Near Mint Holofoil: $203
   Market price: $208.05
   Value at launch: $210.56

6. Reshiram ex – 166/086 – SV: White Flare
   Near Mint Holofoil: $190
   Market price: $203.13
   Value at launch: $210.56

SAVE $10.66: As of Aug. 14, the Pokémon TCG Black Bolt Elite Trainer Box is $88 at TCGPlayer, compared to $100.66 at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG Black Bolt Elite Trainer Box $88 at TCGPlayer
$100.66 Save $12.66 Get Deal

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to grab the Scarlet & Violet — Black Bolt Elite Trainer Box, this might be it. TCGPlayer is offering it for $88, coming in $10.66 cheaper than Amazon’s $100.66 listing. That’s enough savings to put toward extra packs, a playmat, or some upgraded sleeves.

Amazon’s price is already lower than the $109.99 list price, but TCGPlayer still takes the lead for the best price on a sealed ETB. With this set’s popularity, shaving another 10% off is a win for both players and collectors.

SEE ALSO: Save over $16 on the Pokémon TCG Black Bolt Binder Collection when you skip Amazon’s markup

Inside, you’ll find nine Scarlet & Violet — Black Bolt booster packs, a full-art foil promo featuring Thundurus, 65 matching card sleeves, and 45 Energy cards. It also comes with a player’s guide to the set, six damage-counter dice, a coin-flip die, two plastic condition markers, and a collector’s box with dividers. A code card for Pokémon TCG Live rounds out the package.

For players, the ETB provides a solid stack of boosters to build from and plenty of accessories to keep your cards organized for league night. For collectors, the Thundurus promo and themed sleeves make it a must-have display piece.

Given the contents and the current savings, now’s a smart time to pick up a Black Bolt ETB before prices climb or sell out entirely.

Most valuable Black Bolt and White Flare Pokémon cards Credit: The Pokémon Company

Here are the most valuable cards you can pull in Black Bolt and White Flare right now. Don't want to leave it to chance? You can just buy them for the best price on TCGPlayer right now:

1. Victini – 172/086 – SV: White Flare
   Near Mint Holofoil: $450
   Market price: $474.25
   Most recent sale: $450

2. Reshiram ex – 173/086 – SV: White Flare
   Near Mint Holofoil: $420
   Market price: $445.20
   Most recent sale: $418

3. Zekrom ex – 172/086 – SV: Black Bolt
   Near Mint Holofoil: $400
   Market price: $406.80
   Most recent sale: $445

4. Victini – 171/086 – SV: Black Bolt
   Near Mint Holofoil: $430
   Market price: $430
   Most recent sale: $438.60

5. Zekrom ex – 166/086 – SV: Black Bolt
   Near Mint Holofoil: $203
   Market price: $208.05
   Most recent sale: $199.95

6. Reshiram ex – 166/086 – SV: White Flare
   Near Mint Holofoil: $190
   Market price: $203.13
   Most recent sale: $188.99

SAVE $4.73: As of Aug. 14, the Pokémon TCG Prismatic Evolutions Eevee two-pack blister is $29.03 at TCGPlayer, compared to $33.76 at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG Prismatic Evolutions Eevee 2-Pack Blister $29.03 at TCGPlayer
$33.76 Save $4.73 Get Deal

If you want a quick hit of the Scarlet & Violet — Prismatic Evolutions expansion without committing to a bigger box, the Eevee two-pack blister is a great entry point. Right now, TCGPlayer has it for $29.03, which is $4.73 cheaper than Amazon’s $33.76 listing. That’s enough of a gap to make it worth skipping the Prime checkout button.

Amazon’s price is already slightly discounted from its typical $35.88, but TCGPlayer still wins out here with a better per-pack value and the same contents. If you’re collecting the promos, you won’t miss anything by choosing the cheaper option.

SEE ALSO: Save over $16 on the Pokémon TCG Black Bolt Binder Collection when you skip Amazon’s markup

This blister comes with a foil Eevee card stamped with the Pokémon Day 2025 logo, a metallic coin, two booster packs from Prismatic Evolutions, and a code card for Pokémon TCG Live.

For collectors, the Pokémon Day-stamped Eevee makes for a fun keepsake tied to the set’s launch. For players, the blister offers a low-cost way to crack packs and test your luck on some of the set’s high-value cards.

With prices on sealed product always creeping up after release, grabbing these at under $30 is a nice move, especially if you’re chasing one of Prismatic Evolutions’ big-ticket pulls.

Most valuable Prismatic Evolutions Pokémon cards Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Here are the most valuable cards you can pull in Prismatic Evolutions right now. Don't want to leave it to chance? You can just buy them for the best price on TCGPlayer right now:

1. Umbreon ex – 161/131 – SV: Prismatic Evolutions
   Price: $875
   Market price: $850
   Most recent sale: $860

2. Sylveon ex – 156/131 – SV: Prismatic Evolutions
   Price: $284.75
   Market price: $365.38
   Most recent sale: $359.44

3. Leafeon ex – 144/131 – SV: Prismatic Evolutions
   Price: $206
   Market price: $280.35
   Most recent sale: $285.26

4. Vaporeon ex – 149/131 – SV: Prismatic Evolutions
   Price: $203.78
   Market price: $241.38
   Most recent sale: $243.04

5. Espeon ex – 155/131 – SV: Prismatic Evolutions
   Price: $201.27
   Market price: $210.57
   Most recent sale: $271.30

SAVE $100: As of Aug. 14, the Anker Solix C300 portable power station is on sale for $149.99 at Amazon. This is 40% off its list price of $249.99, allowing you to save $100.

Opens in a new window Credit: Anker Anker Solix C300 DC Power Bank Station $149.99 at Amazon
$249.99 Save $100 Get Deal

The weather is still perfect for an outdoor adventure, and if you're looking to get in a little camping trip before cooler weather blows in, it helps to have a portable power station with you. With this, you can keep all of your devices charged up in case you're not ready to go fully off-grid just yet. And thankfully, there are some great deals available on various models right now, including the Anker Solix C300 portable power station.

The Anker Solix C300 portable power station is usually listed for $249.99, but right now it's marked down 40% to $149.99. This allows you to save $100. It's currently listed as a limited-time deal, meaning it might not stick around for long. Act fast to grab it at this price.

SEE ALSO: Record-low price alert: The 40-liter Anker Solix EverFrost 2 electric cooler is under $630 at Amazon

This power station offers 288Wh of power for all your devices, alongside multiple ports for charging. The Anker Solix C300 portable power station actually comes with seven ports, including a car socket, two 140W USB-C ports, one 100W USB-C port, one 15W USB-C port, and two 12W USB-A ports. And with its helpful portable design, it's easy to pack up and take on your travels.

Don't miss out on this limited-time deal on the Anker Solix C300 portable power station at Amazon. And if you're looking for a bit more power to take on your journeys, you can also save on the hefty Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus right now at Amazon.

In yet another rambling press conference, President Donald Trump has announced that he will be hosting the upcoming Kennedy Center Honors, telling a story about how he kept being asked to host the awards ceremony and kept saying no before finally caving in.

Reacting to the clip on Late Night, Seth Meyers was anything but convinced.

"Well, I think you deserve the award for best original screenplay, because that's definitely a fake conversation that did not happen," Meyers says, before launching into his Trump impression. "They said 'Sir, we want you to host,' and I said 'You're fools, I'm so busy,' and they said 'The ratings will be huge because everyone loves you!' and I said 'That's true,' and I said 'What'll I wear?' and they said 'Don't worry, we'll make a special tuxedo that's big enough for your incredibly large penis — their words, not fools on that, they wised up — and I said 'OK, if you say so.'"

It's not the first time Meyers has roasted a Trump press conference and it probably won't be the last.

SAVE $90: As of Aug. 14, the Jackery Explorer 300 is on sale for $169 at Amazon. That's a 35% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Jackery Jackery Explorer 300 $169 at Amazon
$259 Save $90 Get Deal

A portable power station is always something to have on hand. Whether you want to stay connected on camping trips or just want to be prepared for power cuts, having something stashed away is always a good idea. And this latest deal on the Jackery Explorer 300 is well worth a look if you're in the market for a reliable option that doesn't break the bank.

The Jackery Explorer 300 is a handy, portable option. At just 7.1 pounds, this is perfect for camping, roadtrips, or on the go connection. There are enough ports to keep several devices going at once, boasting two AC outlets, a PD 60W USB-C port that works for both input and output, a fast charge 3.0 port, a standard USB-A port, and a DC car port. That’s enough for your phone, laptop, camera, drone, and more.

SEE ALSO: The DJI Power 2000 portable power station means business, and it’s great for DJI drone owners

Recharging is pretty quick too: about two hours to get to 80% if you use a wall outlet and the 60W PD USB-C port at the same time. You can also charge it from a car outlet while on the road, an AC adapter at home, or via a Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel.

Get this deal from Amazon before stock drops.

The Xenomorph isn't the only powerful being in FX's Alien: Earth series, with the heads of five major corporations calling the shots on our planet and its neighbours. The newest of these organisations, Prodigy, is led by young founder Boy Kavalier, a bratty trillionaire with a massive ego played to perfection by Mary and George, Black Mirror, and The French Dispatch star Samuel Blenkin.

Though Blenkin told Mashable that Boy Kavalier isn't based on anyone from real life, he said it was a wildly fun exercise to play someone who can do whatever they damn well want.

SEE ALSO: 'Alien: Earth' review: Xenomorphs get upstaged in this sci-fi treat

"I was so excited to play this role, because I don’t normally get to play people who have this kind of massive ego," he said. "I tend to play young people who are pretty broken and vulnerable in some way, so the fact that Noah [Alien: Earth creator, writer, and director Noah Hawley] gave me a chance to inhabit somebody who can walk into a room and do literally whatever he wants, I just tried really hard to get on set and embody that."

Samuel Blenkin as Boy Kavalier in "Alien: Earth." Credit: FX

In Blenkin's hands, Boy Kavalier intentionally uses disrespectful body language and behaviour as a power play. He refuses to wear shoes as he wanders around his secret Neverland facility, helming a complex and dangerous science project. He puts said bare feet up on desks while pushing his staff's ethical boundaries, takes an extremely important business call with rival corporation Weyland-Yutani in bed (holding the tablet with his feet), and generally throws his authority around with the click of his fingers.

"That feeling of freedom and collaboration meant that I could go on set and say, 'Well, yeah, you know what? I think I will hold it with my feet.' But that was not planned," says Blenkin. "There were so many moments that weren’t planned that I just was cheeky and asked. And that feeling of freedom and collaboration only comes from being on a really generous set."

"That feeling of freedom and collaboration meant that I could go on set and say, 'Well, yeah, you know what? I think I will hold it with my feet.'"

When we first meet the prodigious leader, Boy Kavalier is helming the company's hybrid project, one that transfers the consciousness of terminally ill children into synthetic bodies. We see the character become a kind of Peter Pan figure, naming his facility Neverland, developing his hybrid troupe of "Lost Boys" led by Wendy (Sydney Chandler), and reading J.M. Barrie's story to them each night. Blenkin said he worked with costumer designer Suttirat Anne Larlarb to craft playsuits for Boy Kavalier to complete the show's Peter Pan theme: "Originally we were almost going to go for pyjamas, going full Peter Pan vibes, and we came up with these brilliant playsuits."

Exactly what drives Boy Kavalier will be unravelled over the course of Alien: Earth. We get a small clue in episode 2, when he describes his need to win the "intelligence race." "People always think it's about money with trillionaires. Or ego. You know what I really want? I want to talk to somebody smarter than me," he says in a scene, munching away at an apple. "At the very least my hope is that by giving Wendy a supercomputer for a brain and training by the best geniuses money can buy, I'll finally be able to have an interesting fucking conversation."

You can watch Mashable's interview with Blenkin, as well as Hawley's insight into the opening scene of Alien: Earth, below:

Alien: Earth premieres Aug. 12 at 8 p.m. ET on Hulu and FX with two episodes, then weekly on Tuesdays.