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Do you need a VPN on your phone? Here’s the truth.

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00

Whether you’re rocking the latest iPhone or Android, one big question popping up is “Do I need a VPN for my phone?” Phones are our everyday companions, helping us communicate with friends and family, look information in a split second, and get lost down a rabbit hole of social media posts.

With Apple stopping over $2 billion in fraudulent transactions on the App Store and built-in security like Samsung Knox for Galaxy smartphones, surely our phones are safe and sound, right?

Not exactly.

From bugs allowing hackers to take over smartphones remotely to the ease of stealing private information over public Wi-Fi networks, people are becoming more aware of safety while using smartphones. 

That’s where the best VPNs can offer a helping hand, but is it worth using? Let’s go through the benefits and drawbacks of using a VPN on your phone. 


Do you need a VPN on your phone?

While it isn’t essential, it is highly recommended. A VPN’s main purpose is to protect your privacy online, stopping advertisers, threat actors, and internet service providers (ISPs) from tracking, collecting, and selling your data. Many use their phones to browse, shop, and scroll through social media, and this information can be used against you if used maliciously.

A VPN can mask your location and make you a complete nobody (in a good way). Even better, the best VPNs come with advanced security tools made for smartphones, which can keep trackers, ads, and malicious threats a bay. 

Like on any device, it’s worth investing in a VPN service to use on your phone. You’ll find many services have apps tailor-made for phones, too, making them easy to use. 

Benefits of using a VPN on your phone

Here are a few ways a VPN can improve the way you use your phone:

  • Complete anonymity: A VPN encrypts your data and hides your real IP address. It makes it extremely difficult for anyone to snoop on your browsing activities – and that’s an important factor for those who use their phone as their go-to source for daily activities. 

  • Safety in public: We’ve all used free public Wi-Fi to cut down on our data usage, but threat actors can take advantage of unsuspecting users on these networks. Personal data is up for grabs, but if that data is encrypted via a VPN, then all a hacker will see is complete gibberish. 

  • Streaming without limits: Constantly on the move while binging your way through the latest TV show obsession? Smartphones have become an excellent way to stream content, especially when traveling. Well, VPNs can deliver even more content, as they can get past geo-restrictions on streaming services like Netflix and Disney+, so you can catch the latest in the U.S., the U.K., Japan, and virtually anywhere around the globe. 

Drawbacks of using a VPN on your phone 

Be aware that VPNs on phones also come with a few disadvantages:

  • Sluggish speeds: Since a VPN connects to a server in another location, your smartphone’s internet speeds can take a dip. Depending on the VPN service you use, especially free VPNs, this can lead to long load times and constant buffering when streaming. If you’re using one of the major VPN platforms, like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, and connect to a server location that’s close to you, these slower speeds are barely noticeable. 

  • Drains battery: As with most apps, a VPN can deplete your smartphone’s battery. While these VPN apps aren’t highly demanding, having a VPN switched on throughout the day can take a slight toll on battery life. 

Not foolproof

VPNs are a great way to enhance your phone’s privacy and security online, but they don’t offer risk-free protection. Online scams, malicious apps, and dodgy websites are still a problem, so it’s worth staying on your toes, even if you have a VPN connection.

'Shardlake' review: Where buddy comedy meets Tudor murder mystery (and it works)

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00

With modern-day whodunnit shows like Only Murders in the Building and A Murder at the End of the World embracing the mystery-solving power of technology, sometimes it's nice to see a show go back to basics. And when I say "go back," I mean "travel back in time to Tudor England," which is where Hulu's Shardlake takes place.

SEE ALSO: Summer TV Preview: Every show you must see

Based on the novels by C.J. Sansom, Shardlake is a (literally) old-school whodunnit. There's nary a phone or a mention of DNA samples in sight, but there is still hardboiled case-cracking — with plenty of atmosphere and historical intrigue to boot. And while its conspiracies and perils can sometimes run overlong, the show truly excels when it embraces the unconventional pair of detectives at its center: Matthew Shardlake (Arthur Hughes) and Jack Barak (Anthony Boyle).

What is Shardlake about? Sean Bean in "Shardlake." Credit: Adrienn Szabo / Disney+

Shardlake embroils us in the religious reforms taking place in England in 1536. King Henry VIII has rejected the Roman Catholic Church and wishes to shutter the monasteries who continue to resist him. So when his emissary Robin Singleton turns up beheaded at the monastery of Saint Donatus, there can only be one explanation: An act of treason against the king.

Still, the law must carry out a thorough investigation of Singleton's death, complete with evidence against any murderers, before the crown can shut Saint Donatus down for good. Enter barrister Matthew Shardlake, Thomas Cromwell's (Sean Bean) detective of choice. Clever, and with a nose for the truth, Shardlake is ready to confront the supposedly corrupt monks of Saint Donatus. But once he arrives at the monastery (and once more bodies start piling up), he'll uncover a mystery-within-a-mystery — one that may just shake the foundations of his faith in crown and country.

SEE ALSO: 'Big Mood' review: A brilliant dramedy that captures friendship and mental health in all its messiness

As Shardlake gets to sleuthing, the series offers some wonderfully moody visuals. Saint Donatus becomes a foreboding maze of religious iconography, its surrounding marshes as perilous as the potential murderer lurking within its walls. Religion, too, remains a driving factor throughout, as Shardlake observes the different ways in which the monks engage with their faith and weather the disdain of members of the Church of England. But it's Shardlake's contentious relationship with Cromwell's rogue of a henchman Jack Barak that really makes Shardlake tick.

Arthur Hughes and Anthony Boyle make Shardlake a surprising buddy comedy. Arthur Hughes and Jack Barak in "Shardlake." Credit: Adrienn Szabo / Disney+

From the moment Barak walks onto the scene, it's clear Shardlake wants nothing to do with him. Barak is everything he's not: a conventionally attractive womanizer who's always wearing the most distracting codpieces. Shardlake, meanwhile, has a physical disability that is mocked, making him an outsider in Tudor society.

The two also butt heads on how to solve Singleton's murder. Barak views all papists as degenerates and would love to tear Saint Donatus down as soon as possible, but Shardlake follows the letter of the law. If he were to find out the monks were not responsible for Singleton's death, he would not twist the truth.

Thanks to Hughes' cool-headed, analytical performance and Boyle's hot-headed turn, Shardlake and Barak become the unlikeliest of collaborators — and the most fun. It's delightful to watch them poke fun at each other, or to get excited about a break in the case. Other aspects of their relationship fare less well, such as an underwritten love triangle with monastery maid Alice (Ruby Ashbourne Serkis), or most segments when they're separated. But that just speaks to the power of their dynamic.

At four episodes long, Shardlake never really drags — but it's certainly a more dynamic, more propulsive whodunnit when Shardlake and Barak share the screen.

Shardlake is now streaming on Hulu.

'Challengers' most WTF moments: From Tashi's knee injury to those sexy churros

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00

Challengers is on everyone's minds, and for good reason.

Luca Guadagnino's riveting tennis drama about the relationship between tennis players Tashi Duncan (Zendaya), Art Donaldson (Mike Faist), and Patrick Zweig (Josh O'Connor) is already one of 2024's best films. It's sensual, it's heartbreaking, and it'll pump you full of so much adrenaline, you'll leave the movie theater feeling like the Energizer Bunny.

SEE ALSO: 'Challengers' review: You're not ready for Zendaya's horny love-triangle drama

It's also chock-full of moments that'll get people talking, whether they want to nerd out over a cool craft choice or plot beat, or only want to ask, "What just happened?" To celebrate these moments, we've rounded up a list of the 18 biggest, most shocking, most WTF moments from Challengers — and you can bet those sexy churros are on it.

Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross' score — and that damn phone alarm.

Challengers kicks off with a techno-flavored bang. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross' score pulses into earshot over images of Tashi, Art, and Patrick preparing for the final match of the Phil's Tire Town challenger tournament in New Rochelle. Its thumping synths and volleying vocals turn the tennis court into a sweaty, desire-filled nightclub. But just as the score really gets going — and just as you really get grooving in your theater seat — Challengers cuts it off with Art's phone alarm. Rude!

These beginning moments aren't the first time Challengers cuts its own score short. The entire film is built on stops and starts: Music swells, then vanishes, mimicking the pattern of play of a tennis match. But only this opening sequence jump scares us with the blaring of a default phone alarm, taking us from dancing to breaking out in a cold sweat in a matter of milliseconds. Honestly, that's a pretty good description of the Challengers viewing experience overall.

Zendaya's onscreen daughter wants to watch Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.

This moment isn't that WTF in comparison to some of the other craziness Challengers gets up to, but you're telling me you're going to make a Spider-Man reference in a movie starring Zendaya — MJ herself! — and expect me not to get distracted? That would be like dropping a Paul Atreides joke in the middle of Bones and All. Clearly, nowhere is safe from the multiverse.

"I love you." "I know." Mike Faist and Zendaya in "Challengers." Credit: Niko Tavernise / Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures

After a humiliating defeat, Art wallows in his losing streak. He reaches out to Tashi for some kind of comfort, but she's more focused on dragging him out of his tennis spiral. The two are on very different wavelengths, resulting in a quietly brutal exchange.

"I love you," Art tells Tashi. She responds with a matter-of-fact, "I know." Han Solo and Leia these two are not.

SEE ALSO: The internet can't get enough of 'Challengers' and, honestly, same Art and Patrick watch Tashi play tennis for the first time.

Let's flash back to 2006. Art and Patrick have just won the boys' doubles championship at the Junior U.S. Open — but more importantly, they're now watching Tashi slaughter her opponent in the women's singles final. The pair might be in the middle of a crowd, but as they watch her play, the world narrows to the three of them: Art and Patrick, in awe of her skill (and her beauty), and Tashi, killing it on the court. It's intimate, it's sexy, and it's surprisingly funny, as Art and Patrick get so into the game that they sync up, from leaning back in the bleachers to whipping their heads back and forth in time with the ball. They're the "one brain cell" meme, personified.

"I'd let her fuck me with a racket."

Patrick drops the above line at an Adidas afterparty celebrating Tashi, and while no tennis racket sex actually happens in the rest of the film, his raunchy turn of phrase certainly paints a picture. Good luck getting that out of your head.

The hotel room scene. Mike Faist, Zendaya, and Josh O'Connor in "Challengers." Credit: Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures

Ever since the the first Challengers trailer dropped, people have been clamoring for Tashi, Art, and Patrick's hotel room hookup. And boy, does it deliver.

The whole scene is full of WTF-ery, from Patrick recounting the time he taught Art to masturbate — don't worry, they were in separate beds! — to him smacking Art's erection after Tashi leaves. But of course, the centerpiece of the scene, and the product of all its exquisite sexual tension, is the trio's three-way kiss, which Tashi quickly engineers into a two-way kiss between Patrick and Art. With Tashi's knowing smile, Art and Patrick's roiling desire, and the killer use of Blood Orange's "Uncle ACE," how can you not be captivated?

Art and Patrick come up with the racket signal.

After Art loses out on Tashi's number when Patrick beats him in the Junior U.S. Open singles final, he begs to know every detail of Patrick and Tashi's date. Well, really one detail in particular: Did the two sleep together?

Patrick promised Tashi he wouldn't kiss and tell, but that promise didn't account for tennis-based signals! He abandons his trademark flashy serve and adopts Art's technique instead, placing the ball right in the notch of the racket, to tell him that he and Tashi did, in fact, have sex. The subterfuge is WTF-worthy enough, but what takes it over the line is Art's face after Patrick's serve: He smiles, then drops the facade into something colder and far more jealous.

SEE ALSO: 'Challengers' love triangle is 'Twilight' for people not afraid to see boys kiss Patrick's Tinder date.

In an attempt to find a place to sleep before the challenger tournament starts, Patrick turns to Tinder. He meets up with Helen (Hailey Gates) at a hotel bar, but as soon as he sees that Tashi is staying there, he abandons the date to speak to his ex. He almost leaves the hotel entirely after the conversation, only to realize that he still needs a place to sleep. I don't know what's worse: Patrick kissing Helen out of nowhere in a desperate attempt to save the situation, or her kissing him back. Helen, have some self-esteem!

"Your mom looks good." "I know she does, Patrick."

Consider this violently whispered exchange between Patrick and Tashi to be their hornier, more Oedipal equivalent of Tashi and Art's "I love you," "I know."

Art tries to snake Tashi and Patrick. Mike Faist and Zendaya in "Challengers." Credit: Niko Tavernise / Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures

As Zendaya has said time and time again on the Challengers press tour, Art is a snake! And as he and Tashi begin to practice together at Stanford, we see that snakiness in full effect. Art suggests to Tashi that Patrick isn't in love with her — who says she wants that? she counters — and later tells Patrick that he doesn't think Tashi is serious about them. It's hardly subtle manipulation, and both Tashi and Patrick know exactly what Art is up to. For Tashi, it's infuriating, but for Patrick, it's exhilarating, as jealousy and desire intertwine.

Sexy, sexy churros. Mike Faist and Josh O'Connor in "Challengers." Credit: Niko Tavernise / Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures

Art's snakiness and Patrick's exhilaration combine over a snack of sexually-charged churros in the Stanford cafeteria. These cinnamon sugar treats are far from the only phallic food in Challengers — hot dogs, bananas, and suggestively-sipped Coke bottles all make appearances. But nowhere else do we see Patrick and Art chomping down on each other's food, or wiping sugar off of each other's cheeks. And who could forget Patrick pulling Art's stool closer to his with his foot?

Here, their repressed desires for each other simmer just under the surface, the closest they've gotten since the hotel room. Once again, Guadagnino strikes the perfect balance of sexy and funny — one that will leave you craving fried dough.

Tashi's knee injury.

After a harsh argument with Patrick (aided in no small part by Art's snakiness) disrupts her pre-game stretches, Tashi takes the court at Stanford. For a moment, it's as if we're back at the Junior U.S. Open: She's totally in the zone, attacking the ball in time to Reznor and Ross' banger "Yeah x10." Then Tashi slips, her knee pops, and she falls on the court in total agony.

If you'd seen any Challengers trailer, you knew this was coming. Yet in every screening I went to, audiences gasped and winced at this moment in particular. Perhaps it's the visceral close-up on the knee that does the trick, or the loud crunch that breaks us out of our dance music trance. Or maybe it's the tragedy of the injury that really gets us. In just one second, Tashi loses out on a lifetime of doing what she loves. Even if you disagree with her actions in the present, how can you not feel for her?

SEE ALSO: Why Zendaya says you gotta see 'Challengers' twice  "You'd have a better shot with a gun in your mouth."

Tashi utters this scorcher right after slapping Patrick halfway across New Rochelle, and while it is certainly one way to respond to someone asking for your coaching help, I wouldn't say it's the most constructive.

The sauna scene.

It's been years since they last spoke, but Art and Patrick finally collide in the most unexpected of places: a sauna. However, there's no sense of reconciliation here, nor any of the playfulness we saw in their younger scenes. Instead, Art brushes Patrick aside, telling him time and time again he doesn't matter.

"I'm just stopping by," he tells Patrick when Patrick points out how humiliating it is he's playing in a challenger tournament. "This is where you live." Harsh.

Tashi and Patrick's Atlanta affair. Josh O'Connor and Zendaya in "Challengers." Credit: Niko Tavernise / Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures

Turns out, Tashi and Patrick didn't have an entirely clean break. Years before New Rochelle, and not long after Tashi and Art's engagement, the two had a one-night stand at the Atlanta Open. (They start making out mere seconds after discussing Art's dead grandma, mind you!)

Making matters worse is the fact that Art briefly sees the two talking, only to notice after a brief chat with a fan that they've disappeared. Tashi tells Patrick that Art doesn't know about Atlanta, so he clearly never brought it up — but how did it impact their relationship? Or his game?

Tashi asks Patrick to throw the match. Josh O'Connor and Zendaya in "Challengers." Credit: Niko Tavernise / Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures

Tashi and Patrick have one more tryst, the night before the Phil's Tire Town final, and that whole encounter is full of WTF moments. Tashi makes Patrick pose as her Uber driver, he calls her a MILF, Tashi spits in his face, they make out in a windstorm in front of Tashi and Art's Aston Martin ad...

But perhaps the most WTF moment of all is when Tashi asks Patrick to lose to Art the next day. This is Tashi "I want to see some good fucking tennis" Duncan we're talking about here, the fiercely competitive woman who puts the sanctity of the game above everyone. No matter how much she needs Art to win the challenger — which would put him on track to perform better at the U.S. Open — this isn't something anyone would ever expect of her. Patrick tells her this, saying it's worse than the cheating. It's unforgivable.

Patrick gives Art the signal.

We all knew this moment was coming, but that doesn't make it any less delicious. Patrick switches up his serve during what would have been match point for Art, using their adolescent code to signal that he and Tashi slept together.

Art's reaction — a loud, penalty-inducing "fuck off" — is to be expected, but what really makes this scene is the build-up. Patrick's hesitation, the repeated slo-mo, the starting and stopping of the score... If you thought the tension in the hotel room sequence was exquisite, then this whole scene is damn near heavenly.

That ending.

Patrick's signal is what Art needs to find his competitive edge again, and their tie-break gets off to a rapturous start. They're playing their longest rally yet, they're trading volleys, and they're grinning like best friends again. They're having fun, and everyone around them knows it: Tashi finally looks impressed by the tennis on display, Reznor and Ross throw some strings into the score, and Guadagnino kicks it into high gear. The audience is the ball! Now we're the players! Now we're the court! Now Art is leaping over the net, about to smash the winning point down on Patrick! Instead, he falls into Patrick's arms and the two embrace, while an ecstatic Tashi lets out a primal, "Come on!"

Who won? Who cares! Art and Patrick finally played some of that "good fucking tennis" Tashi always wanted from them. It went beyond individualistic play and became a relationship, where Art and Patrick connected and went somewhere special together. Remember what Tashi said about her best rally with her Juniors opponent Anna Mueller? "It was like we were in love."

Come on, indeed.

Challengers is now in theaters.

Edit videos with this easy-to-use software on sale for $25

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Through May 5, a lifetime license to VSDC Video Editor Pro is on sale for $24.97 (reg. $49).

Video editing is as much of an art as it is a skill. Many need to edit videos for work, whether they're a vlogger, marketing manager, or small business owner getting their name out there. Others just enjoy the process and the end result. If you're looking to elevate or begin your video editing skills, this lifetime license to VSDC Video Editor Pro is on sale for $24.97 (reg. $49) through May 5.

What sets the VSDC Video Editor Pro apart is its versatility and speed. It's a hardware-accelerated, non-linear system that can handle imports from any camera or device without sacrificing quality. Plus, it boasts double export speed (even for HD files) and the ability to edit multiple files at the same time.

This editing suite lets you cut, trim, merge, and reorder video segments with precision. You have access to visual effects and filters to make your edits uniquely your own. It also uses sub-pixel resolution to more precisely process image and video transformation. You can even implement voiceovers, a mask tool, and other creative options.

If you'd like to create a real studio look for your videos, the multiple color chroma key tool helps you remove green backgrounds and overlay videos like in sci-fi movies. VSDC also includes the ability to adjust parameter settings and create curved motion paths for objects and animation.

Don’t let overly complex software or high prices keep you from bringing your creative ideas to life. Get this affordable option with many bells and whistles at an affordable price while you can.

Through May 5, a lifetime license to VSDC Video Editor Pro is on sale for $24.97 (reg. $49).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Flash-Integro VSDC Video Editor Pro: Lifetime License $24.97 at the Mashable Shop
$49.99 Save $25.02 Get Deal

Enjoy a lifetime of secure passwords for $25

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Through May 5, stop wasting time fussing over passwords, because a lifetime subscription to Sticky Password Premium is just $24.97 (reg. $199).

Most of us have multiple passwords guarding our devices and accounts. That number rises when you have them for both work and home. It can be frustrating — and a waste of time — when you forget your password. A clever solution comes in the form of Sticky Password Premium, and a lifetime subscription is on sale for just $24.97 (reg. $199) through May 5. 

The winner of PCMag's Editors' Choice Award, this tool simplifies the password game, allowing you to utilize secure passwords without the need to remember them. (PCMag is owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis.) In an effort to protect your identity and information, it creates encrypted, strong passwords for all of your accounts — all managed by one primary password.

This password management system is compatible with Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices. You can even safely and securely share your chosen passwords with others, which is helpful for family members and your team at work.

This offer also gets you one year of dark web monitoring via ARC. This monitors your info for data breaches and helps to stop potential misuse of your credentials online.

Sticky Password Premium Plan gets you unlimited encrypted passwords and data storage. It also allows for auto-login to recognized sites and form-filling. It also comes with a secure digital wallet and notes, as well as the option to store your password library on the cloud or locally. 

This lifetime access includes all major and minor updates. It also supports multiple languages.

Enjoy quick logins, seamless web forms, and peace of mind with the help of this platform.

You can get a lifetime subscription to Sticky Password Premium for just $24.97 (reg. $199) until May 5 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Sticky Password Sticky Password Premium: Lifetime Subscription $24.97 at the Mashable Shop
$199.00 Save $174.03 Get Deal

Elevate your ChatGPT skillset with these 12 courses for $30

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Through May 5, this ChatGPT and Automation course bundle is on sale for $29.99.

Artificial intelligence and automation have taken the world by storm. While they might be controversial subjects, it can be beneficial to understand them and use them to our advantage. This ChatGPT and Automation course bundle is on sale for $29.99 and can help you add AI and automation to your skillset to stay in step with the changing times.

These twelve online learning courses are brought to you by industry pros at Eduonix Learning Solutions, which has been creating high-quality tech training for over ten years. These courses cover twenty-five hours of learning content to give you a better understanding of AI and automation. One of the benefits of learning from home is that you can learn whenever it fits your schedule and from the comfort of your own space.

The ChatGPT and Automation E-Degree covers a wide range of topics essential to understanding and leveraging AI and automation tech. Learn practical applications of technologies like ChatGPT and more than 20 other AI tools that can support you in marketing, coding, and business. 

Since efficiency is universally admired across industries, learning to streamline your business processes through automation could be a key skill learned from this course bundle. You'll even learn how to customize ChatGPT for optimization for different fields.

Communication is also a key part of most professional positions. These courses help you amp up your communication skills by helping you conquer the art of conversations with ChatGPT. You'll even gain knowledge of how to turn raw data into easier-to-understand, visually compelling narratives.

These courses only offer a certificate of completion, not an actual degree. However, exploring these topics allows you to bring AI and automation experience and knowledge to your professional journey. 

For a limited time, get this ChatGPT and Automation course bundle on sale for just $29.99.

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Opens in a new window Credit: Eduonix Learning Solutions ChatGPT & Automation E-Degree $29.99 at the Mashable Shop
$790.00 Save $760.01 Get Deal

Work more efficiently with this laptop stand hub for $95

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Through May 5, pick up this 6-in-1 laptop stand hub for just $94.97 (reg. $129).

In today's modern workspace, efficiency and organization are big parts of the success equation. With so many of us working from home, it's easy for organization to fall by the wayside, especially if you're working in a tight space. This 6-in-1 CASA HUB Stand Pro Laptop Stand Hub might be able to help with that. It's on sale for just $94.97 (reg. $129) through May 5.

The design allows for a little extra desktop space, as it allows for an extended work area. Made from durable aluminum, the base rotates 360 degrees horizontally and offers adjustable angles and heights for the best, ergonomic view of your laptop's screen.

It fits laptops up to 17 inches and is a solid option for those who utilize multiple screens at work. And if you're worried about putting your expensive machine up on top of the stand, it might ease your mind to know it has an anti-slip grip via silicone rubber pads to help keep it safe. 

The laptop stand includes a hub with a USB-C host port, a USB-C PD port, an HDMI port, two USB-A ports, and one RJ45 (ethernet). The port hub is also detachable. Another thoughtful feature is the right-angle cable that allows for less pull and better connection.

This stand hub offers an optimized workspace, as well as a more comfortable and functional work experience.

You can get the 6-in-1 CASA HUB Stand Pro USB-C Laptop Stand Hub for just $94.97 (reg. $129) when you order by May 5 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: Adam Elements 6-in-1 CASA HUB Stand Pro USB-C Laptop Stand Hub $94.97 at the Mashable Shop
$129.00 Save $34.03 Get Deal

NASA shows how it will talk to spacecraft over 15 billion miles away

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00

We're going to need a bigger antenna.

For the first time, NASA's Deep Space Network — which communicates with the agency's legendary Voyager 1 spacecraft — pointed all six of the large antenna dishes at its Madrid Deep Space Communication Complex at the interstellar craft. Combining antennas together, aka "arraying," allows NASA to create a bigger overall antenna and pick up ever-fainter signals from Voyager 1, a craft over 15 billion miles away — and counting. Already, engineers need a five-antenna array to gather unprecedented data from a Voyager instrument.

"As Voyager gets further away, six antennas will be needed," the space agency explained in a statement.

SEE ALSO: NASA's Voyager is in hostile territory. It's 'dodging bullets.'

Voyager 1 and 2, launched in 1977, have left the sun's influence and are the only human-built craft to enter interstellar space. So the data they're returning is invaluable.

"The science data that the Voyagers are returning gets more valuable the farther away from the Sun they go, so we are definitely interested in keeping as many science instruments operating as long as possible," Linda Spilker, Voyager’s project scientist, said last year

"As Voyager gets further away, six antennas will be needed."

The instrument that requires six antennas, the Plasma Wave System (PWS) instrument, detects the interstellar gas the craft are passing through.

The Deep Space Network's Madrid Deep Space Communication Complex, with all six antennas arrayed together. Credit: MDSCC / INTA / Francisco "Paco" Moreno Tweet may have been deleted

NASA's Deep Space Network, or DSN, has three disparate locations spaced around Earth, allowing different missions to connect with the network (it currently supports over 40 space endeavors). They're located in Barstow, California, near Madrid, Spain, and near Canberra, Australia. "Madrid is the only deep space communication complex currently with six operational antennas (the other two complexes have four apiece)," the agency explained. "Each complex consists of one 70-meter (230-foot) antenna and several 34-meter (112-foot) antennas."

The Voyager craft, nearing a half-century of operation, may potentially return unprecedented science data through the mid-2030s, when they exhaust their finite nuclear fuel supply. Yet out in interstellar space, another threat looms, too: harmful radiation called galactic cosmic rays. These high speed particles, many of which are created by dramatic star explosions called supernovae, can trip Voyagers' memory, or permanently damage aging computers (which may have recently occurred). It's dangerous in the realm between the stars, billions of miles away.

"We are dodging bullets out there," Alan Cummings, a cosmic-ray physicist at Caltech — the research university that manages NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory — recently told Mashable.

How to watch 'The Iron Claw': When is the tragic wrestling film streaming?

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00
How to watch 'The Iron Claw' at a glance: BEST MAX DEAL FOR MOST PEOPLE Max With Ads annual subscription $99.99 per year (save 17%) Get Deal BEST MAX DEAL WITH NO ADS Max Ad-Free annual subscription $149.99 per year (save 22%) Get Deal BEST FOR CRICKET CUSTOMERS Max (With Ads) Free for Cricket customers on the $60 per month unlimited plan (save $9.99 per month) Get Deal BEST NON-STREAMING OPTION Rent or buy 'The Iron Claw' $3.74 or $17.74 (reg. $5.99 or $19.99) (save $2.25 as a Prime member) Get Deal

You might not think of pro wrestling as "gorgeous" or "evocative," and yet that's exactly how Mashable's reviewer described The Iron Claw. With a star-studded ensemble cast featuring Zac Efron and Jeremy Allen White, the A24 drama tackles the real-life story of the Von Erich's wrestling dynasty. A commercial and critical success, earning $35 million at the U.S. box office and plenty of glowing reviews, The Iron Claw is finally coming to streaming. (If you can't wait, it's available now through video-on-demand platforms.)

Here's everything you need to know about how to watch The Iron Claw at home.

What is The Iron Claw about?

Directed by Sean Durkin (Martha Marcy May Marlene), The Iron Claw tells the tragic story of one of pro wrestling's most famous families, the Von Erichs. It follows four brothers — Kevin (Efron), Kerry (Allen White), David (Harris Dickinson), and Mike (Stanley Simons) — who fight for their family legacy while suffering under the training of their ruthless father Fritz (Holt McCallany). As tragedy after tragedy befalls them, people begin to think the family is cursed.

"Most wrestling fans know the details of this family saga, but others might be shocked by the accumulation of misery, pushing the limits of how much one family can endure," Siddhant Adlakha writes in his review for Mashable.

Read our full review of The Iron Claw.

Here's a glimpse at the film's official trailer:

Is The Iron Claw worth watching?

As mentioned above, The Iron Claw was largely a success, boasting glowing reviews and solid box office numbers. In fact, it's one of only six A24 films to reach the $35 million domestic earnings milestone. At Rotten Tomatoes, it's sitting at an 89 percent critic rating and 94 percent audience rating — neither of which is an easy feat.

While our reviewer ultimately thought it pulled its punches a bit and could've hit even harder, he also dubbed it a career-best performance for Efron. Whether you're a fan of Efron, of pro wrestling, or A24 dramas, it's certainly one you won't want to miss.

SEE ALSO: How to watch your favorite A24 films, from 'The Zone of Interest' to 'Talk to Me' Can I watch The Iron Claw at home?

For those wanting to watch the tear-jerking wrestling drama at home, The Iron Claw is available to rent or buy on digital on-demand platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV. It will also make its streaming debut in May (more on that below).

Here are some of the platforms where you can rent or purchase the film:

  • Prime Video — $5.99 to rent or $19.99 to buy ($3.74 and $17.74 for Prime members)

  • Apple TV — $5.99 to rent or $19.99 to buy

  • Fandango at Home — $5.99 to rent or $19.99 to buy

  • YouTube — $5.99 to rent or $19.99 to buy

  • Google Play — starting at $4.99 to rent or $19.99 to buy

When is The Iron Claw streaming?

After opening in theaters on Dec. 22, 2023, The Iron Claw is set to make its streaming debut on Max on May 10, 2024.

Before you sign up for a Max subscription, it's worth double checking that you don't already have access to the streamer through a prior subscription, a third party, or a cable, internet, or wireless provider. If you do still need to sign up for access, check out the streaming deals below.

The best Max streaming dealsBest Max deal for most people: Save up to 20% on an annual plan Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max annual subscriptions Save up to 22% on Max Watch Now

Rather than paying a monthly fee, you can opt for a Max annual plan and save up to 22%. Max With Ads typically runs you $9.99 per month, which ends up adding up to $119.88 for the year. If you go with the annual plan instead, you'll pay just $99.99 — about 17% in savings. The Ad-Free annual plan goes for $149.99 per year, which saves you 22% compared to the regular price of $191.88 (the biggest savings of all three plans), and the Ultimate plan goes for $199.99 per year (reg. $239.88), which saves you 17%. It may be more to pay up front, but in the long run, it'll keep more money in your wallet.

Best Max deal for Cricket customers: Free Max with Ads for customers on the $60/month unlimited plan Opens in a new window Credit: Cricket / Max Max With Ads Free for Cricket customers on the $60/month plan Watch Now

If you're looking for a way to get Max for free, listen up. Those on the Cricket Wireless $60 per month unlimited plan get access to Max With Ads with their account (as long as it remains in good standing). Head on over to the Max app or navigate to Max on a browser, then sign in using Cricket as your provider. Once you enter your credentials, you'll unlock full access to Max With Ads (typically a $99.99 per year value) for free. If you're a Cricket customer, but on a different plan, you can upgrade or switch over to secure the deal at any time. Head over to the Cricket website for the terms and conditions.

What are the different Max subscription tiers?

Similar to the old HBO Max streaming service, Max offers three unique subscription tiers: With Ads, Ad-Free, and Ultimate Ad-Free. Here's a brief breakdown of the different tiers and what they include.

Max With Ads

  • Two concurrent streams

  • 1080p resolution

  • 5.1 surround sound quality

  • Light ads

  • No offline downloads

Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max With Ads $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year Watch Now

Max Ad-Free

  • Two concurrent streams

  • 1080p resolution

  • 5.1 surround sound quality

  • No ads

  • 30 offline downloads

Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max Ad-Free $15.99 per month or $149.99 per year Watch Now

Max Ultimate Ad-Free

  • Four concurrent streams

  • Up to 4K resolution

  • Dolby Atmos sound quality

  • No ads

  • 100 offline downloads

Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max Ultimate Ad-Free $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year Watch Now

How to watch Chennai Super Kings vs. Punjab Kings online for free

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00

TL;DR: Watch Chennai Super Kings vs. Punjab Kings in the IPL for free on JioCinema. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The 2024 season of the IPL is exciting cricket fans once again, and we've got all the information you need to tune into your favorite teams. The next fixture will see the Chennai Super Kings face off against the Punjab Kings in the 49th match of the season.

If you want to watch Chennai Super Kings vs. Punjab Kings for free from anywhere in the world, keep reading. We know a handy hack to help you stream all the games you want.

When is Chennai Super Kings vs. Punjab Kings?

Chennai Super Kings vs. Punjab Kings starts at 3 p.m. BST on May 1. This game will take place at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, India.

How to watch Chennai Super Kings vs. Punjab Kings for free

JioCinema is offering free live streams of every IPL cricket match this season in 4K resolution on its app. So how do you access it?

JioCinema is technically geo-restricted to India, but don't let this put you off. Anyone can unblock this free streaming service with a VPN. These tools work by hiding your real IP address (digital location) and connecting you to a secure server in India. So you can access JioCinema from anywhere in the world and catch all the IPL you can handle.

Unblock JioCinema to stream the IPL 2024 by following these simple steps:

  1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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

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

  4. Visit JioCinema (you will need an Indian phone number to subscribe)

  5. Watch Chennai Super Kings vs. Punjab Kings for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) Learn More

Most of the best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can watch IPL live streams without parting with any of your hard-earned cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch the biggest IPL fixtures for free.

What is the best VPN for JioCinema?

ExpressVPN is the best service for unblocking JioCinema, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including India

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection speeds

  • Up to eight simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for £82.82 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.

Stream the IPL for free with ExpressVPN.

How 'blue comments' turned the TikTok algorithm into a protest tool

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00

You only meant to watch a video of an influencer sharing a funny story, but a puzzling collection of comments sent you down a news rabbit hole — one where you incidentally learned about the starving children of Northern Gaza. The comments on an Usher dance video unexpectedly got you fired up to decry the systemic bombing of a Palestinian refugee camp. Influencer clips about pregnancy soon necessitate follow-ups in which those same posters speak out about the harsh reality of pregnant women in Gaza.

That's the version of TikTok that online activists, specifically those associating with a movement known as Operation Watermelon, are trying to create with the help of the platform's algorithm-based blue comments.

TikTok was seemingly not built with activism in mind, despite its present invocation as the digital voice of the revolution. Following its Musical.ly origins, ByteDance re-envisioned the app as a trendsetter and money-maker — a renaissance app for users of all ages (entertainment behemoth, trend curator, and new age Google). In its efforts, TikTok's algorithm has become a character of its own. As both the app's Big Evil but also the purveyor of taste, even celebrities and politicians have made their issues with the algorithm known.

SEE ALSO: Apple workers urge leadership to 'end their silence' on Palestine

But as TikTok adds more and more customizable features intended to keep users glued to the app, those same users are becoming more savvy about the algorithm's tactics — including how to co-opt them for their own means. 

Turning TikTok comments into SEO hubs 

It all started out innocuously. Timed with the initial launch of suggested searches, and quietly introduced in 2022, TikTok rolled out blue, clickable highlights to specific keywords or phrases within user comments. These keyword suggestions take the user to a page of related videos that match the highlighted search term. A variety of blue comments may also trigger a more general suggested search term at the top of a comment section. As its expanded, the feature has been advertised as an enhancement of the app's search capabilities and an extension of the company's efforts to be Gen Z's go-to search engine.

Simply, suggested searches are just a new type of algorithmic recommendation. In a comment to Business Insider, a TikTok spokesperson explained the searches are not human-influenced, and that they're sorted by user relevance and engagement. "To make recommendations, the company uses artificial intelligence to identify conversations around a video, such as by scanning user comments or looking at what other people type into the search bar after watching a video. The search results reflect what users are saying about the TikTok video," the publication reported. 

The feature was, of course, quickly noticed by TikTok advertising strategists and creator tips accounts. 

One, known as @jera.bean or "Jera Bean TikTok Expert", spotted comment searchability for celebrity names and quickly theorized it would start applying to more phrases and keywords — she was proved right soon after. Another TikTok strategist, @LikeLaurenTaylor ("Lauren Taylor, TikTok Growth"), drew follower attention to TikTok's video-specific search bar and "hyperlinks" as the new foundation for TikTok SEO strategies, claiming it could increase discoverability for brands. 

A June 2022 blog from Sprout Social called TikTok's comment sections the "best part of the app" or the "playground for internet lore, themed threads, and belly laugh-evoking jokes." According to the blog, the most important goal for a brand (or influencer) is to build "comment-generated reach," and that is done by feeding into what the algorithm likes: highly engaged comment sections with tons of likes per comment. To gain the top-liked comment is to hit TikTok gold. 

But the blue comment algorithm — which started with seemingly random assignments of blue links — evolved, and users soon found that they could influence what shows up as a suggested search through the strategic use of certain phrases or keywords in comments. It didn't take long for users to transform this into an attention-grabbing exploit, turning suggested searches into cogs in the app's rumor mill. Months after launch, users began gaming the system to get their least liked creators trending, using blue comments to suggest the account was the center of an unnamed controversy. As awareness of the feature and its quirks grew, creators used it to enhance viewer curiosity, posting videos replying to their previous posts with captions like "Why did TikTok make that the suggested search?!" in order to draw attention back to their original post. 

Even now you'll still see users attempting to pull attention to their comments by "stealing" the blue search term. "Did I get the blue comment?" users will ask, an evolution of the "first comment" or "first like" game. And, much like "First!" comments, they're often successful, populating the suggested search and claiming prime real estate at the top of the comment section. But even if they're unsuccessful, the question itself — and the obsession with blue comment baiting — is enough to garner the likes and replies needed to redirect the spotlight anyway. 

Credit: TikTok screengrab / @ElijahNelsonn

The automatic suggested searches have also been criticized, and treated as a microcosm for TikTok's broader media literacy problem. Users flocked to the site last year to call out the algorithm's problematic lack of moderation for blue comments, allowing for the spread of tabloid-like drama and misinformation. Celebrities like Ariana Grande and Bebe Rexha have been the target of blue search suggestions focused on the size of their bodies, while famous TikTok couples fall victim to breakup rumors. LGBTQ influencers and creators of color have had to navigate an entirely new form of targeted hate. 

Users can report suggested searches for potential removal — and the platform occasionally turns off the feature entirely for certain videos — but the apparent hands-off approach leaves most search curation in the hands of users themselves, for better or for worse. 

Blue comments as the new protest sigil 

With its ingrained connection to virality, engagement, and branding, suggested comment searches are now part of the bedrock of platform usability. Users attempt to research the brand name of a popular designer handbag, where to snag a trending food item, or find out more about a creator's political stances, for example, via blue comments. And if the blue comments don't lead them to the information they seek, many appear eager to abandon the mission. 

On a video of a woman sharing her rare health conditions, users try to find out more using blue comments. Credit: TikTok screengrab / @Warrenit4Love  A video sharing the history of iPhones shows people in the comments trying to search specific models and accessories. Credit: TikTok screengrab / @isheep_pro

But over the last few months, blue comments have also become a large part of a social justice organizing strategy. They're a deceptively simple way to use an influencer's already established platform, and their priority within the app's algorithm, to get around shadowbans, raise awareness, and, hopefully, push the creator into speaking out about issues. As one of the internet's preferred hubs for pro-Palestinian sentiment gathering, it's now being used to call attention to mass violence and humanitarian crises in Gaza. 

The strategy, stated by TikTok's participants, is simple: 

  1. Target an influencer that has stayed silent on the crisis.

  2. Flood the comment section in order to create a wave of blue, linked comments that will also change the suggested search bar to a Gaza-related term.

  3. Increase engagement on the video and use the now-viral video to educate the influencer's followers via comments.

The most common way this is accomplished is by nestling the calls for attention inside normal looking comments or eye-grabbing sentiments. During coverage of the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show, comments like "Bisan and Motaz would absolutely crush this!!!" and "Usher should've had Motaz or Bisan as guest performer" attempted to draw eyes back to the accounts of Palestinian citizen journalists Bisan Owda and Motaz Azaiza." Others flooded videos with "All eyes on Rafah." The repeated comments led to multiple suggested searches of "Bisan and Motaz NFL" across videos. Blue comments have since been removed from the videos. 

Credit: TikTok screengrab / @NFL Credit: TikTok screengrab / @NFL

These comments aren't just a trend, but an official TikTok movement organically coined "Operation Watermelon," a riff on names of grassroots pro-Palestinian movements like Operation Olive Branch (not to be confused with the Turkish military operation of the same name). Operation Olive Branch's purpose is to amplify the voices of Palestinian creators, activists, and families on the ground, led by a network of grassroots volunteers trying to connect families with aid. Operation Watermelon, meanwhile, is less officially organized, with a few creators continuously swapping leadership. 

The original organizer is user @Angie__Mariie, who asked her followers to flood comments with watermelon emojis and called the effort "Operation Flip the Rhythm." Angie has since left the app, passing along Operation Watermelon's reins to user @TooMeanToBean, known for videos on revolutionary organizing and political activism. Targets appear to happen organically, with comments from just a few users snowballing into entire comment section takeovers. 

SEE ALSO: The watermelon emoji indicates solidarity with Palestine

Ahead of the primetime broadcast of the Academy Awards ceremony, @TooMeanToBean and Operation Watermelon organizers flooded the comment sections of the official Oscars, Entertainment Tonight, and Vogue profiles with mentions of Yazan al-Kafarna, a 10-year-old Palestinian boy who died from malnourishment during the ongoing famine in North Gaza. "First! Yazan Kafarnah deserved better ❤" wrote one user. 

Credit: TikTok screengrab / @EntertainmentTonight Credit: TikTok screengrab / @Oscars

Efforts like these do sometimes have a direct impact on popular influencers. Following Operation Watermelon comments flooding her profile, popular labor and delivery nurse Jen Hamilton posted a video ruminating on her own ignorance about lost Palestinian lives. 

"Yesterday I started getting comments about things I had never heard before," Hamilton said to camera in a Jan. 22 post. "Things like 'Did you know that women in Gaza are having C-Sections without anesthesia? Did you know that the miscarriage rate has gone up 300 percent?' These are all things that I care deeply about, and no. I did not know that. I did not know why there were watermelons in my comment section. Today was the very first day, moment, time, that I intentionally looked at what is happening."

Other efforts have spammed comment sections of major accounts like Alix Earle, MrBeast, Dixie D'Amelio, and Hank Green — a group with a cumulative 161 million followers. In March, popular TikTok creator Elyse Meyers officially departed the platform following an announcement that she was taking time to focus on the health of one of her children. Users, however, felt it was in response to her being a recent target of Operation Watermelon, following months of her own followers attempting to get the creator to speak out for the cause. 

While Hamilton's video was celebrated by many as a victory for the cause, it would be a stretch to call an event like Meyers' departure a resounding success — especially with Meyers' loyal fan base calling the blue comments and subsequent stitches directed at Meyers a form of online harassment. Some organizers in Palestinian liberation spaces questioned how targets were decided, or wondered why commenters didn't also direct attention to political targets, like the recently created TikTok account for President Joe Biden. Others view Operation Watermelon as the "schoolyard bullies" of TikTok, asking why the cause doesn't just share "thoughts and prayers" for those affected. 

SEE ALSO: Is the White House being hypocritical about TikTok?

In a recent case, Operation Watermelon targeted lifestyle influencer Abbie Herbert, a creator with more than 15 million followers. In the call to action, organizers asked users to flood her comments with mentions of al-Kafarna once again, which effectively got the attention of the popular creator. But follow-up posts accused Herbert of deleting Operation Watermelon comments and silencing the calls to action. A clarification was posted by @TooMeantoBean shortly after, alleging that TikTok was actually removing the comments for "bullying and harassment." TikTok's automatic cyberbullying warning has appeared on other videos filled with Operation Watermelon comments, as well. 

The blue comment strategy is clearly churning up the TikTok waters, which is something disruptive political organizing aims to do. And Operation Watermelon's problems, while thorny, reflect the deeper problems facing digital organizing at large. How can organizers and supporters create centralized, thoughtful movements in inherently impersonal spaces? How can they do so effectively and with nuance, without facilitating trolls or wider backlash? 

TikTok organizers deal with an additional digital question: Should you hedge your movement's bets on an algorithm that arguably works against you by keeping users glued to screens and out of the streets?

As TikTok continues evolving, so too do creators, brands, and, now, social movements who use the platform to make a living, garner attention, and attempt to make tangible change. Blue comments may be a timely symbol for failed digital organizing — or they may be just the beginning.

The 5 best earbuds to buy in 2024

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 05:00
Best earbuds for 2024 Best earbuds for sound Sony WF-1000XM5 $299.99 at Amazon Shop Now Best noise-cancelling earbuds Bose QuietComfort Ultra $299 at Amazon Shop Now Best for Apple users Apple AirPods Pro (USB-C) $249 at Amazon Shop Now Best wired earbuds Marshall Mode $59.99 at Amazon Shop Now Best budget earbuds Anker Soundcore P20i $24.99 at Amazon Get Deal

They let you listen to your music wherever you go, from flights to walks to the corner store — it's no wonder earbuds are a modern day necessity.

If you're in the market for a new pair of earbuds, we have good news: You have a lot of options. The bad news: You have a lot of options, and it can get overwhelming fast. Prices on earbuds range anywhere from under $10 to in the thousands (if you're going professional-grade), but even in the narrower range most consumers occupy, you can easily spend up to $300.

SEE ALSO: The best laptops you can buy in 2024 for work, school, and gaming

Whether you're simply looking for earbuds to get you through the work day or earbuds that you can live in 24/7, we've checked out the most popular options to determine which earbuds are actually the best. And if nothing on this list stands out too much, you can always expand your search to headphones as well.

Are wired or wireless earbuds better?

Though most earbuds are now wireless, this ultimately comes down to preference. If you have a tighter budget or don't want to worry about the battery running low all the time, wired earbuds are a great option. With that said, it is significantly harder to find wired earbuds with active noise cancellation (we're working on tracking down and testing a few pairs like this). So, if ANC is a priority for you, you'll be better off with a pair of wireless earbuds.

To help you decide, we put a range of wired and wireless earbuds to the test to determine which are worth your money — check out our top five picks below.

Best earbuds for sound: Sony WF-1000XM5 Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds $299.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

People who enjoy great active noise cancellation and even better sound quality will appreciate the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds — the full package.

Why we picked this:

Even if you're not a full-blown audiophile, we're betting you'd be impressed by just how good these earbuds sound. Though they're great when you plug and play, the highly customizable equalizer allows these earbuds to really shine. If you're not quite sure what you enjoy when it comes to EQ, no problem.

The companion app has a "find your equalizer" feature that lets you play a song and select between six EQ settings to find the one that sounds best to your ears. Once you do, you get more options to select, with that choice marking the "custom" EQ you like best. To make sure you're satisfied, the app then lets you easily compare the new and original settings side by side. That's just one of several sound features built into the app that allow you to customize your experience, far surpassing every other pair of earbuds on this list.

Wear-wise, the ear tips on these buds forego the usual silicone for a foamier alternative that's more reminiscent of the material you might expect from earplugs. We found this material to wear comfortably and snugly, staying in place in your ear better than AirPods typically do. On a further design note, these are also a great option for folks who don't like the stemmed look made popular by AirPods.

Finally, the ANC. You're paying high-end prices for these earbuds, and they do deliver on high-end ANC. If noise cancelling is your biggest concern, you might want to go for the Bose earbuds instead, but these still do an excellent job (plus, their multipoint pairing actually works, unlike Bose's). We will say that with ANC on, we did tend to get closer to seven hours of listening time before running out of juice, instead of the eight Sony claims.

Battery life: 7-8 hours per charge (24 hours with case) | Ear tip sizes: XS, S, M, L

Best noise-cancelling earbuds: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Opens in a new window Credit: Jae Thomas / Mashable Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds
Shop Now

Check out our full review of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds.

Who it's for:

For those who value noise cancellation above all else, the $299 Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds are worth the investment, offering the best ANC experience we've had with a pair of earbuds.

Why we picked this:

Over-ear headphones are the typical pick for those who want the best noise cancelling, but in recent years high-end earbuds have started to prove themselves worthy competitors. Bose is already known for offering some of the best ANC, so it's no shock that these earbuds, which were released just this past fall, showcase what the brand is best at.

Mashable contributor Timothy Beck Werth said that these earbuds offer the best ANC of any he's tested, a lineup that includes products from Apple, Beats, and Jabra. In fact, he writes, "Bose's noise cancelation is so good that I often use these earbuds when I'm not even listening to music." Customizable stability bands help create a tight but comfortable seal that helps unwanted sound stay out (and sets these earbuds apart from other ANC buds on the market).

Though we appreciate the QC Ultra's noise-cancelling first and foremost, we also enjoyed Bose's foray into spatial audio with the Immersive Audio feature that can be toggled on and adjusted via the companion app. It's good, not great, and definitely not the top reason to get these earbuds, but still a pretty nice feature — and certainly welcome at this price point.

Speaking of the price point, we were shocked that at $299, these earbuds don't offer functional multipoint pairing. While you can technically connect more than one device at a time, you do have to manually change your device with the app, instead of switching back and forth simply by changing your audio output, like you can with the Sony WF-1000XM5 or AirPods Pro. While we do think Bose needs to update this feature ASAP, the ANC, combined with the comfort for long-term wear and sound quality, still earned these earbuds a spot on our list.

Battery life: 6 hours per charge (24 hours with case) | Ear tip sizes: S, M, L | Stability band sizes: S, M, L

Best for Apple users: Apple AirPods Pro (USB-C) Opens in a new window Credit: Stan Schroeder / Mashable Apple AirPods Pro (USB-C) at Amazon
Shop Now

Check out our full review for the USB-C AirPods Pro.

Who it's for:

Apple device owners will appreciate how easily these earbuds pair with multiple devices and their impressive active noise cancellation.

Why we picked this:

The AirPods Pro are incredibly popular for several reasons. They produce a sound that's rich and well-balanced, they have excellent noise-cancellation (that falls just behind the Bose QC Ultras), and they work seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem.

What exactly does that mean? Whereas earbuds like the aforementioned Ultras might struggle to pair, and then swap between, an iPhone and an iPad quickly, the AirPods Pro were built to do exactly that. And as you'd expect from an Apple product, they do have some nice features built around convenience. In addition to great ANC and sound, Apple hones your listening experience with three modes: Conversational Awareness, which automatically lowers the volume of your music when you're talking to someone and raises it when you're done; Adaptive Audio, which functions as an ultra-smart transparency mode; and Personalized Volume, which automatically adjusts the volume based on your environment.

Outside of those listening modes, you also get lossless audio support with the Apple Vision Pro (in case you happen to own the $3,500 headset). With the new USB-C port, you can also charge the case by connecting it to any iPhone 15 device, though we don't consider that the most useful feature out there. If you're not a fan of touch controls, you're also likely to appreciate that the touch commands only require you to press the stem of the earbuds. Our biggest gripe with these earbuds? Even though they sound great, they don't offer customizable EQ like Bose and Sony.

Battery life: 6 hours per charge (30 hours with case) | Ear tip sizes: XS, S, M, L

SEE ALSO: Apple to launch a new, 'mid-tier' version of AirPods, report claims Best wired earbuds: Marshall Mode Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Marshall Mode earbuds at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

Whether you're looking to save some cash, prefer the better signal that wired headphones can offer, or simply hate charging earbuds, these Marshall Mode earbuds are sure to satisfy.

Why we picked this:

We know it's 2024 and everyone has Bluetooth everything, but some people genuinely prefer wired headphones. For those people, we recommend the Marshall Mode headphones.

As you would expect from wired headphones, these earbuds aren't too terribly expensive at $59.99 (though you can often find them on sale in the $39 to $49 range. Despite their affordability, they produce clean, well-rounded audio comparable to earbuds in the $100-plus price range. The wire itself is lightweight but durable and not at all tangle prone, making these earbuds plenty comfortable to wear for long stretches of time. We do wish it was detachable, and therefore replaceable, but that's not a dealbreaker, especially at this price point.

The mic works well for calls, and it's separate from the remote button that allows you to answer and hang up calls, as well as play and pause your music. There isn't too much more to say about these earbuds beyond this: They do what you expect them to do.

Battery life: N/A | Ear tip sizes: S, M, L, XL

Best budget earbuds: Anker Soundcore P20i Opens in a new window Credit: Bethany Allard / Mashable Anker Soundcore P20i earbuds at Amazon
Shop Now Who it's for:

If you don't want to be too precious about your earbuds (there's nothing wrong with being accident prone) the Anker Soundcore P20i earbuds will be the kindest to your wallet, while still delivering an all-around decent listening experience. If ANC is essential for you though, you'll want to pass on these buds.

Why we picked this:

We'll be honest: We weren't expecting much from a pair of earbuds that cost $25. However, we were shocked to find that these earbuds not only had an impressive array of features, but in some cases also had better features than earbuds that cost hundreds of dollars more.

First, let's start with the sound. Admittedly, we weren't too blown away by how they sounded at first. However, once we played around with the equalizer presets on the companion app, we found the Treble Boost produced the kind of well-rounded sound we expect from pricier earbuds. The app also allowed you to set up to three touch controls on each earbud, which actually worked decently well once we played around with them (the touch controls have just the right level of sensitivity). However, the most exciting feature on the app was the "find device" tab. Unlike Apple AirPods, which only play a sound from the case when you're trying to find your earbuds, the Soundcore earbuds each play a loud tone when you activate this feature, making it easier to locate a single bud.

The P20i buds also best AirPods in battery life. Per charge, we were able to get about nine and half to ten hours of battery life. The case overall holds 30 hours of charge total. Admittedly, these earbuds don't have ANC, so that helps, but we were still impressed. (For comparison, the most recent AirPods Pro and standard AirPods without ANC offer six hours per charge).

Obviously, a budget pair of earbuds will have some more noticeable drawbacks. For the P20i, that would be the lack of multipoint pairing. Not only can you not pair more than one device at a time, but we also found that we often had to manually unpair the earbuds from one device before pairing with another. The lack of pairing capability also meant that to use the companion app, you have to be connected to your phone.

Battery life: 9.5 to 10 hours per charge (30 hours with case) | Ear tip sizes: S, M, L

How we tested the best earbuds

Each pair of earbuds selected for this guide was hands-on tested by a Mashable staffer or contributor. Along with earbuds tested specifically for this article, we also combed through our existing reviews to pick the best of the best earbuds for 2024. When testing earbuds, we consider criteria such as:

  • Battery life: For the Anker Soundcore P20i and Sony WF-1000XM5, we tested their battery life by letting the earbuds run interrupted with music at 50% volume until they died. For the remaining earbuds, the Bose QC Ultras and Apple AirPods Pro, we referred to the battery tests conducted when we first reviewed them.

  • Sound quality: We tested out these earbuds with a variety of songs, from live performances, to bass-heavy electronic music, R&B, rock, and folksy guitar songs. We evaluated how they sounded out of the box, along with any EQ presets or custom controls.

  • Comfort: Though this category can be subjective, we made sure each of our selections at least had several different ear tip sizes and were comfortable to wear for stretches of three hours or more.

  • Microphone quality: Realistically, you'll make calls when using your earbuds, which is why we put each of these earbuds through a call test, making sure the person on the other end of the phone could hear us clearly and consistently.

  • Special features: Especially for pricier earbuds, we took into consideration what they offered beyond a solid listening experience. In Sony's case, that was an incredibly customizable and user-friendly experience with the equalizer. For the Soundcore earbuds, that was the "find device" capability (considering the buds' price range) and general app compatibility. Basically, any feature that made the earbuds stand out, and also performed consistently well, earned it points in this category.

  • Price: Earbuds can easily run into the hundreds of dollars, and we wanted to make sure if you're paying that much, it's worth it. We took into consideration how the earbuds performed in each of the above categories to make sure they justified their price.

As of April 2024, we're in the process of testing more budget-friendly ANC earbuds. We'll also be testing more sports earbuds to add a recommendation for workouts.

53 of the best Harvard University courses you can take online for free

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: A wide range of online courses from Harvard University are available to take for free on edX, including lessons on AI, Python, JavaScript, and more.

edX is a goldmine for people who love to learn but don't want to spend money doing it. The online provider hosts literally thousands of courses from some of the biggest names in education, including Harvard University.

Yep, you could become a student of Harvard University without spending anything (and without leaving home). You can find Harvard courses on everything from artificial intelligence to cybersecurity with edX, so what are you waiting for? There isn't a catch here, besides the fact that you won't get a certificate of completion with these free courses. But don't let that hold you back.

These are the best free online courses from Harvard University this month:

Students can enroll at any time and start learning at their own pace. Everyone leads busy lives, so it's nice to know that you can pursue your passion at a time that suits you and your lifestyle.

Find the best free online courses from Harvard University with edX.

Opens in a new window Credit: Harvard University Harvard University Courses Free at edX Get Deal

Save 86% on a lifetime Dollar Flight Club membership

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: A lifetime Dollar Flight Club membership (Premium Plus+ Plan) is on sale for £55.91, saving you 86% on list price.

From going on incognito mode to setting price alerts to booking months in advance, there are a plethora of tips doled out by folks in the name of cheaper airfare. But the truth is scoring deals on flights is much harder now than it used to be, with most purported tricks falling short of delivering substantial savings.

Rather than dedicating endless hours to hunting down budget fares, let Dollar Flight Club take the reins. It's a price deal alert service that works 24/7 to find you the best deals, and for a limited time, you can score a Premium Plus subscription for 86% off.

The Premium Plus plan stands as the best tier among Dollar Flight Club's subscription options. Subscribers get served an array of deals across domestic and international routes, including economy, first class, and business class options, letting you pick from a wider selection of flights and choose one that fits your budget.

In addition to email alerts, you can also opt to get text notifications whenever there's a deal departing for your travel bucket list destinations. All that's required is to enter your preferred departure airports on the platform, then sit back and watch the deals trickle in.

Exclusive perks for Premium Plus members don't stop at airfare deals. You also get a 20% discount on Mobile Passport Plus, which allows you to scan your travel documents on the Mobile Passport app and breeze past long lines at the airport. You even get to snag discounts on products from partner brands like Huckberry and enjoy priority customer support for life.

Jet set for life with a lifetime Premium Plus subscription to Dollar Flight Club. It usually goes for around £400, but new users can get it for only £55.91.

Opens in a new window Credit: Dollar Flight Club Dollar Flight Club: Lifetime Membership (Premium Plus+ Plan) £55.91 at the Mashable Shop Get Deal

How to watch Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG online for free

Wed, 05/01/2024 - 00:00

TL;DR: Watch Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG for free on ServusTV. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Champions League is arguably the most prestigious club competition in the world of football, and now only four teams are left with a chance of lifting the trophy. Did Borussia Dortmund expect to be here? Probably not, but they are now only two games away from the biggest game of their lives. Unfortunately for them, PSG and Kylian Mbappé stand in their way.

If you want to watch Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG?

Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG will begin their first-leg match at 3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. BST on May 1. This fixture takes place at the Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund, Germany.

How to watch Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG for free

Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG is available to live stream for free with Austrian broadcaster ServusTV.

ServusTV is geo-restricted to Austria, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These powerful tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Austria, meaning you can access ServusTV from anywhere in the world.

Unblock ServusTV by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

  4. Visit ServusTV

  5. Stream Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG in the Champions League for free

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

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to provide free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to ServusTV without committing with your cash. This is not a long-term solution, but it gives you plenty of time to stream Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for ServusTV?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for streaming live sport on ServusTV, for a number of reasons:

  • Servers in 105 countries including Austria

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

  • Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

  • Fast connection 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.

Live stream Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG for free with ExpressVPN.

'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for May 1

Tue, 04/30/2024 - 22:00

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 May 1's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

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.

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

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 used to be available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it. Unfortunately, it has since been taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times.

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.

Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A secret journal.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no letters that appear twice.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter D.

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 Wordle #1047 is...

DIARY.

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.

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

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for May 1

Tue, 04/30/2024 - 21:00

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 May 1's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

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.

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: Breaking down a pair of pants

  • Green: Geometry terms

  • Blue: Navigating a web browser

  • Purple: '60s band group names

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: Features of a Pair of Jeans

  • Green: Objects in 0-, 1-, 2-, and 3-Dimensional Space

  • Blue: Web Browser Menus

  • Purple: Member of a '60s Band

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 Connections #325 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Features of a Pair of Jeans: BUTTON, FLY, POCKET, RIVET

  • Objects in 0-, 1-, 2-, and 3-Dimensional Space: LINE, PLANE, POINT, SOLID

  • Web Browser Menus: FILE, HISTORY, VIEW, WINDOW

  • Member of '60s Band: ANIMAL, DOOR, KINK, SUPREME

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.

Is this not the Connections game you were looking for? Here are the hints and answers to yesterday's Connections.

T-Mobile, AT&T, Sprint, Verizon slapped with $200M fine — here’s what they illegally did with your data

Tue, 04/30/2024 - 16:07

What does AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile all have in common?

Aside from being the four major mobile carriers in the U.S., these companies have also just been slapped with millions in fines from the FCC.

Why?

AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile allegedly provided location data to third parties without their users' consent, which is illegal.

“Our communications providers have access to some of the most sensitive information about us," said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel in a statement. "These carriers failed to protect the information entrusted to them. Here, we are talking about some of the most sensitive data in their possession: customers’ real-time location information, revealing where they go and who they are.” 

FCC fines the biggest U.S. mobile carriers

According to the FCC, T-Mobile has been fined the largest amount: $80 million. Sprint, which has merged with T-Mobile since the FCC's investigation began, also received a $12 million fine.

AT&T will have to pay more than $57 million and Verizon will dole out close to $47 million.

In total, the four major mobile carriers in the U.S. will be paying out more than $200 million in fines for sharing sensitive customer data without their knowledge or permission.

What happened?

AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile all allegedly sold access to its own customers' location data to "aggregators." These aggregators then resold the access to other third-party, location-based service providers. 

"Each carrier attempted to offload its obligations to obtain customer consent onto downstream recipients of location information, which in many instances meant that no valid customer consent was obtained," the FCC said.

The FCC says these four carriers broke the law set in the Communications Act that requires these companies to protect confidential data, including location information.

The specific case that led the FCC to carry out its initial investigation is also laid out in the FCC's announcement and it's certainly alarming.

A Mississippi sheriff was tracking the location of people through their cell phones via a prison communication service company called Securus. Securus was getting this location data through the four major wireless carriers.

This case perfectly shows the important role mobile carriers play in protecting our data – and the consequences when they fail to do so. Now, these companies will pay millions in fines, thanks to the FCC.

The creator of the viral 'Bonk Song' on how a water jug became a symbol for the Palestinian protests

Tue, 04/30/2024 - 14:55

Art is integral to the success and longevity of social movements. It's woven into the very fabric of progress. The fight for Palestinian liberation is no different.

Dozens of protests over the Israel-Hamas war have erupted across college campuses over the past few weeks. They began at Columbia University and spread to more than a dozen other schools across the country, led by students calling for their universities to divest from companies that are aiding Israel's military efforts in Gaza. 

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The protests have led to a significant police presence on campuses. In response, some 1,000 people have been arrested. During one altercation between protesters and police at Cal Poly Humboldt, a protester hit a police officer in the head with a large, empty water jug, which is now being referred to online as the "Jug of Justice." It quickly went viral on social media and led to many people calling to "bonk the police" and making the water jug recognizable anti-police imagery. 

No$hu, a 29-year-old artist, saw the video and turned it into a now-viral trap song. The song starts with "I hate the police," and ends with "If you're resourceful, anything can be the right weapon." But the tune is so upbeat and auto-tuned that it makes the lyrics' radical politics palatable.

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The song has ignited a conversation about whether it's appropriate to make light of the ongoing conflict on campuses and the war in Gaza. For No$hu, it's not only pertinent — it's necessary. In conversation with Mashable, he pointed to a quote by anarchist printer Jack Frager paraphrased from anarcho-feminist icon Emma Goldman’s autobiography Living My Life. "If I can’t dance, I don’t want to be part of your revolution."

"You can normalize radical thought through something playful," No$hu said. "I'm saying super radical things if you listen to the song. If I said those in an angry way, you could terrify some people. But doing it with some autotune in a playful way makes it more accessible."

Mashable spoke with No$hu about writing the viral song, finding joy in revolution, and using his strengths to aid the protest movement.

View this post on Instagram SEE ALSO: Israel reportedly using facial recognition and Google Photos to conduct mass surveillance in Gaza Mashable: What inspires you when you're making music?

No$hu: A lot of it has humor. There's some more serious stuff, but what comes most naturally to me is stuff that has to do with protest, justice, or resistance and revolution, mixed with humor.

There have been a lot of powerful videos coming out of these pro-Palestine protests. What about that video caught your attention?

Just how hilarious it was. When I see cool clips like that, [and] I have a lot of them like that, I hop on and try to amplify it with something creative. So I saw that, and it was just instant. I started thinking right away, "How can I  approach this creatively?"

Tell me more about that — the process of making this.

I pick out three or four obvious points that I want to talk about — like jug, bonk, you know. And then I'll just play with those words until I come up with something that I'm satisfied with. So, like "jug or not, juggernaut," stuff like that.

And then did you send it to a producer?

No. [I used] a free instrumental off YouTube that I had on my laptop. I was searching through the beats that I had already downloaded and trying to find the right vibe. And as soon as I heard that — there's an instrument playing in that, that immediately I was just like, "bonk, bonk," you know? It just came into my head to swing it along with that melody. So it just worked out perfectly.

How long did it take you?

I saw [the video] two days after it initially came out. And so that night I started coming up with ideas based on [words like] jug and bonk. And then the next morning I recorded it. I was in a hostel at the time, so I recorded it in between the other travelers coming in and out of the room. Just so they wouldn't hear me yelling [and] making weird sounds, I had to squeeze the recording in on my bed in the hostel. But it took me like 20 minutes to get the recording done. Then maybe another 40 [minutes] to mix it and edit it.

What do you record and mix with?

The software I use is called Mixcraft, but all the recordings are super simple, done with a laptop, an interface, and a microphone.

Then you just uploaded it to social media?

I uploaded it to Twitter and Instagram, and I had no expectations. I just threw it up. Because I do those pretty often. Some of them get a lot of views, and some of them don't, but I just put them up if it sounds good to me. I release it and then see what people think about it. I remember I came back to it after an hour and it already had like 300 likes and a bunch of retweets. I was like, "Oh, OK. I think this one might take off."

What has the reaction been like?

It's been crazy. I've been on my phone way too much because I'm trying to respond to all the messages. It's cool to see what people say. Someone in the comments was like, "I'm going to play this on the Freedom Flotilla to Gaza." 

Do you know any of the people who are doing these protests on campuses? Did you talk to the person who did the bonking?

No, I haven't talked to him. I'd like to talk to him though. That person is a legend.

Have your other songs spread that quickly?

I've had a couple last year that have a similar amount of views. Some of them pop off, some of them don't, but I have like a good five or six that have gotten views like this one.

SEE ALSO: Apple workers urge leadership to 'end their silence' on Palestine What makes you so interested in Palestinian liberation?

To me, it's so obvious how disturbing and disgusting what's going on is. It's not something that I feel like I need to put eloquently. There's a genocide going on. 

A lot of people feel powerless if they're not in California or New York City or on a college campus where these protests are happening. You're traveling right now — have you felt that powerlessness, and what do you do to help the cause when you can't physically be at a protest?

I know how I like to contribute, or how I naturally contribute, is through music. That comes naturally. I don't feel powerless because I've been doing this for a while, and I know how much laughter and joy help with things like this. When things are stressful, it's super important to have some humor. I know that's what I can contribute to this. So I never feel powerless. I feel empowered when I see stuff going on like this, and I feel inspired. I can contribute in my own way to this. And I feel like people should do that, too. Take what their talent is or their skill or their passion is and contribute it somehow to help things snowball.

How do you feel having participated in the creation of a fun meme during a time like this?

There's a huge percentage of [young people who] love memes and take [information] in that way. So we should use that to our advantage. 

Do you think it also adds some longevity to a movement?

You have to be able to laugh. It's so easy to get discouraged and demoralized. You need to be laughing as much as you can, at every chance.

Yelp launches new AI assistant for finding the right pros. Here's how to access it.

Tue, 04/30/2024 - 14:09

Yelp is packing its platform with more AI features, including an AI assistant and "AI-stitched videos."

On Tuesday, the OG crowd-sourced review site announced Yelp Assistant and TikTok-style videos that provide a breakdown of what people are saying about certain businesses like restaurants.

These tools add to Yelp's growing collection of generative AI features, such as AI-powered summaries for restaurants and attractions, which launched in January. Large language models (LLMs) are known for their ability to analyze and summarize large quantities of data, making them ideal for parsing the plethora of reviews on Yelp business pages.

"AI enables us to transform the way people discover and connect with local businesses," said Craig Saldanha, Yelp’s chief product officer.

Yelp's AI assistant takes discovering and connecting with local businesses a step further by offering a conversational chat experience to help users find the right professionals in categories like "home, local, auto, beauty, pet, real estate, professional, event planning, financial services, and more," according to the announcement.

Yelp Assistant will with your about your problem and even connect you with relevant professionals. Credit: Yelp How does the Yelp Assistant work?

When you start a chat with Yelp Assistant, it will ask follow-up questions to understand your project or problem, provide relevant businesses, and even draft and submit a detailed request to those businesses on your behalf, including inquiries about pricing and availability.

Based on the demo, Yelp Assistant says it searches for "sponsored local pros," which initially makes it seem like search results only surface businesses paying for the exposure. But Yelp clarified this in a statement to Mashable saying, "project submissions are sent to both advertisers and non-advertisers, based on business relevance and eligibility for the project submitted through Yelp Assistant."

Yelp Assistant may only surface sponsored businesses. Credit: Yelp

Yelp Assistant can be found in the "Projects" tab. It's now available in iOS and rolling out to Android later this summer.

Yelp also teased a tool that provides video summaries of businesses in the style that TikTok and Reels users are familiar with. Yelp will soon start testing videos that use AI to stitch together videos, photos, and AI voiceover sharing information and insights from user reviews.

Based on the demo, the result with its friendly muzak and fade transitions, is giving local ad with a limited budget vibes. But for such a text-heavy site, it might be a welcome change for the visually inclined.

UPDATE: Apr. 30, 2024, 3:35 p.m. EDT This story has been updated to address confusion over whether Yelp Assistant only surfaces sponsored businesses for project submissions.

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