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Amber Ruffin was supposed to perform at the White House Correspondents Dinner on Saturday, but was disinvited by WHCA president Eugene Daniels in March, with the comedian telling Stephen Colbert the reason on Tuesday night.

"I had said that it would be impossible to make jokes about both sides," Ruffin said on The Late Show. "Because we're at a point now where one side is snatching people up off the street and putting them on a plane, and the other side is, you know, not doing that."

"After they fired me I looked back at my Google Doc and was like, this would have been bad," Ruffin added later. "They would not have liked it."

Colbert, who performed at the WHCA in 2006, absolutely ripping into then-President George W. Bush, asked Ruffin of any jokes she might like to share with The Late Show — to which she said "absolutely not." However, she did share her potential wrap-up.

"I was going to end it with like, 'This administration is trying to get you to hate other people and that's not your natural state. Human beings are made to love one another. But, I mean, it's true! They got you by convincing you that you're filled with hate and you absolutely aren't. It's the opposite of what you're made for.' And saying that out loud now makes me glad that I got cancelled."

TL;DR: Live stream Keys vs. Swiatek in the 2025 Madrid Open for free on RTVE. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The quarter finals of the 2025 Madrid Open showcase some really interesting matchups, including Keys vs. Swiatek. All eyes will be on the defending champion as she takes on the talented American.

If you want to watch Keys vs. Swiatek in the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Keys vs. Swiatek for free

The 2025 Madrid Open is available to live stream for free on RTVE, including Keys vs. Swiatek.

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

Access free live streams of the 2025 Madrid Open by following these simple steps:

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

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

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

4. Visit RTVE

5. Watch the 2025 Madrid Open for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading services do tend to offer incentive deals such as free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these deals, you can live stream Keys vs. Swiatek without actually spending anything. This isn't a long-term solution, but it gives you enough time to watch the Madrid Open before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for RTVE?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including Spain

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

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

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% 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 Keys vs. Swiatek in the 2025 Madrid Open for free with ExpressVPN.

SAVE $30: As of April 30, the JBL Flip 6 portable speaker is on sale for $99.95 at Amazon. That's 23% off its list price of $129.95.

Opens in a new window Credit: JBL JBL Flip 6 $99.95 at Amazon
$129.95 Save $30.00 Get Deal

Warmer weather is here, and if you're hoping to set out on outdoor adventures to the beach or the pool, a portable speaker can help make that journey a bit more entertaining. Thankfully, there are some great deals on portable speakers right now that are worth checking out. In particular, the JBL Flip 6 has been discounted at Amazon, dropping below $100.

The JBL Flip 6 has received a 23% discount at Amazon which has dropped its price from $129.95 to $99.95. This offer applies to quite a few different color options as well, so you can choose between blue, black, camo, green, grey, pink, red, teal, and white. That's not all, though. Select speaker colors also come with a 90-day free trial of an Amazon Music Unlimited Individual Plan. It's only available to new subscribers, though.

SEE ALSO: The 8 best Bluetooth speakers, tested

This portable speaker is a great size for taking on the go and is even waterproof and dustproof, so no matter where your journeys take you, it's built to handle it. It also boasts powerful sound and up to 12 hours of battery life, so you can keep the music going for hours and hours without having to worry about recharging too frequently.

It's currently listed as a limited-time deal. Don't miss out on 23% off the JBL Flip 6 at Amazon.

If you prefer to listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks on your own, there are some great headphone and earbud deals available right now as well. A couple of our favorites that are worth a look are on the AirPods 4 (without ANC) and Bose QuietComfort headphones at Amazon.

Dating can be a challenge no matter your age, but the truth is that the older we get, the more in tune we become with our wants and needs.

While the over-50 dating pool might seem smaller, it's actually getting bigger all the time. Thanks to online dating, you now have new opportunities to connect with people who share your interests and values.

If you’re still hesitant, consider this: A 2025 report from Seniorly (using data from the U.S. Census Bureau) found that 25.9 million older adults in the U.S. are forgoing marriage, a jump of 5.8 million in the last decade. With an estimated 4.2 million Americans turning 65 this year, the senior dating pool is larger than ever.

SEE ALSO: Best dating sites for singles over 40 What is the most successful dating site for seniors?

While niche sites like SeniorMatch, Singles50, and Just Senior Singles might come to mind, we've found that these platforms can be expensive and sometimes even predatory, offering a poor user experience and limited matches. Plus, with romance scams costing Americans over 50 an estimated $1.14 billion in 2023, and a concerning doubling of STIs among seniors between 2000 and 2022, it's wise to do your research first.

That's why we often nudge folks toward the bigger, more established platforms like eharmony, SilverSingles, and Match. These popular apps aren't just for the younger crowd — they're filled with singles of all ages, including a significant number of mature users. What's also interesting is that current dating trends show that there's a growing openness to wider age gaps in relationships. This means senior daters might find connections not just within their immediate age range, but also with potentially compatible partners who are just a little younger.

SEE ALSO: What are romance scams and how can you avoid them?

Whether you're looking for something casual or a committed relationship, we've got you covered. Below, you’ll find our top picks for the best dating sites and apps for seniors based on our own experiences, hands-on reviews, and comparative research on the experiences of other online daters. We’ve also answered some FAQs to help you get the most out of your online dating experience, from setting up your profile to avoiding romance scams.

A quick note on pricing: just like everything else, the costs for dating apps and sites can sometimes change. We work hard to keep this guide current for you, but you might encounter slight variations.

Stephen Colbert's mission is to truly know Will Ferrell, but some people clearly cannot be fully known.

In the clip above the Late Show host gives the You're Cordially Invited star his trademark "Colbert Questionert" asking about everything from the scariest animal ("Penguin," responds Ferrell. "You know the old saying, never turn your back on a penguin.") to his favorite action movie (Sense and Sensibility is Ferrell's immediate response).

The highlight? An impromptu but welcome rendition of Rick Astley's "Never Gonna Give You Up."

SAVE $50: As of April 30, the Fitbit Sense 2 is on sale for $199.95 at Amazon. That's 20% off its list price of $249.95.

Opens in a new window Credit: Fitbit Fitbit Sense 2 $199.95 at Amazon
$249.95 Save $50 Get Deal

A fitness tracker or smartwatch is a good pick-up if you're looking for a little extra help to keep up with your fitness progress or keep an eye on your health stats. If you've been on the lookout for a new model, there have been some very nice deals floating around recently. One of our favorites is this discount on the Fitbit Sense 2, which has dropped below $200 for a limited time at Amazon.

The Fitbit Sense 2 is currently listed for $199.95, a 20% discount from its list price of $249.95. A few different color options are on sale as well, so you can choose between the shadow grey/graphite smartwatch, the blue mist/pale gold, or the lunar white/platinum.

SEE ALSO: Upgrade to the Garmin Venu 3S for less with this limited-time offer

Alongside the nice design, the Fitbit Sense 2 is ready to help tackle the day with its numerous health and fitness features. These include all-day activity tracking, 24/7 heart rate tracking, 40+ exercise modes, sleep tracking, and all-day stress detection. So whether you're heading out for a workout or staying inside for the day, this watch is a helpful item to have by your side.

Amazon has this listed as a limited-time deal, so act fast to save on the Fitbit Sense 2.

This isn't the only Fitbit deal we've come across recently. If you want to spend a little less cash, the Fitbit Charge 6 is also discounted right now at Amazon.

Save $350: As of April 30, the Eufy X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum is on sale for $549.99 at Amazon. That's a savings of 39% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Eufy Eufy X10 Pro Omni Robot Vacuum $549.99 at Amazon
$899.99 Save $350 Get Deal

Calling all robot vacuum lovers, we've found another great deal at Amazon. As of April 30, the Eufy X10 Pro Omni Robot Vacuum is back down to its lowest-ever price. Save a whopping $350 with this limited-time offer.

If you're not convinced, this vacuum needs only speak for itself. Standout features include self-emptying functionality, AI obstacle detection, carpet detection, and voice reminders. If you have an Alexa device, it'll even work with voice control. Because who doesn't want to tell their vacuum exactly what to do?

SEE ALSO: This robot vacuum has the same features as $1,500 vacuums but costs under $400

And it doesn't just pick up dirt, this model also mops your floors too, as well as self-cleans and refills. Basically, your work is always done. For a full overview, check out what we thought when we gave it a review.

For pet owners, you may be wondering if a robot vacuum is smart enough to pick up those annoying little hairs that end up everywhere, and you'll be pleased to know, it is. The detangling brush will become your favorite feature. The roller brush rotates in reverse, and the Pro-Detangle Comb flips down to loosen and remove hair that's wrapped around the roller brush so you don't have to do anything.

This deal is stamped as limited-time only, so head to Amazon now to grab this great discount.

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

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

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Wednesday, April 30, 2025:

AcrossPicture holder

• The answer is Frame.

New spin on an old song

• The answer is Remix.

Cream of the crop

• The answer is Elite.

Hobbes in "Calvin and Hobbes," for one

• The answer is Tiger.

Profit = revenue – ___

• The answer is Cost.

DownAgonize (over)

• The answer is Fret.

Item in Indiana Jones's satchel, perhaps

• The answer is Relic.

Compadre

• The answer is Amigo.

Itty-bitty biters

• The answer is Mites.

Wield, as influence

• The answer is Exert.

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

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

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

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

Here are some best practices for safeguarding sensitive personal data.

Astronomers poring through a now-retired space telescope's data have spotted a bizarre family of fledgling stars breaking all the rules of how they're expected to behave.

The star group, which scientists have recently named Ophion, consists of more than 1,000 stars that formed together but are now scattering at high speeds. Stars that share the same birthplace usually migrate together for millions to billions of years.

But Ophion, just 20 million years old, is already flying apart in a fraction of the time it’d usually take to disperse. Researchers say all of these relatives are about to become estranged, completely removed from their ancestral home.

The discovery, made with the European Space Agency's Gaia star-surveying spacecraft, could change how astronomers find and study stellar groups — and reveal previously unknown ways they shape the Milky Way. 

"Ophion is filled with stars that are set to rush out across the galaxy in a totally haphazard, uncoordinated way, which is far from what we’d expect for a family so big," said Dylan Huson of Western Washington University in a statement. "It’s like no other star family we’ve seen before."

SEE ALSO: Webb telescope may have just revealed a spiral galaxy's startling secret In this graphic, dots show the location of Ophion, a young star family discovered by the now-retired Gaia mission. Credit: ESA / Gaia / DPAC graphic

To find Ophion, scientists used a new machine-learning computer tool to analyze data from Gaia, which mapped the galaxy for more than a decade but recently retired because it ran out of fuel. Though the mission concluded this year, these new findings are a tease to another vast data release expected in 2026. 

Gaia has revealed long strings of stars that have stayed together for billions of years and even uncovered old star streams that helped shape the galaxy itself.

The tool, aptly named Gaia Net, has sifted through the massive amount of survey data and figured out basic traits of stars, such as their temperatures, sizes, ages, and ingredients. 

By searching for young stars, Gaia Net homed in on the young family about 650 light-years away, a relatively short distance in cosmic scales. The new paper, led by Huson, appears in The Astrophysical Journal. 

The exact reason for Ophion’s strange behavior is still unclear. One idea is that powerful events near the group — like explosions of old stars into supernovas — might have pushed the stars apart. Another idea is that nearby star groups may have disrupted Ophion with their energy and gravity.

Whatever the cause, Ophion seemingly escaped traditional methods of detection because they rely on spotting stars that move similarly through space. Because of that, there may have been a confirmation bias in only finding star families that behave in that specific way. Perhaps more star groups that don't fit the mold, previously eluding researchers, are waiting to be found, too.

"Previous methods identified families by clustering similarly moving stars together, but Ophion would have slipped through this net," said Marina Kounkel, a co-author based at the University of North Florida, in a statement. "Without the huge, high-quality datasets from Gaia, and the new models we can now use to dig into these, we may have been missing a big piece of the stellar puzzle."

TL;DR: Tired of your charging cables tangling? Get a 2-pack of these self-coiling charging cables with built-in magnets for $29.99 with free shipping (reg. $39.98).

Opens in a new window Credit: Statik MagStack Slim 3-foot Magnetic Tangle-Free Cables $29.99
$39.98 Save $9.99 USB-A to USB-C Get Deal

Most charging cords end up looking like a bird’s nest after two weeks of real life (especially if you put them in your travel bag or purse), but not this one. The MagStack Slim uses built-in magnets to stay neatly coiled, tangle-free, and ready to charge with faster speeds and transfer limits than your basic one.

Order a 2-pack of magnetic charging cables for just $29.99 with free shipping while supplies last (reg. $39.98).

Untangle your desk and your problems

The real problem with regular cords isn’t just the mess — it’s the frustration. Tugging knots apart every time you need a charge isn’t just annoying, it’s avoidable. The MagStack Slim completely sidesteps the chaos by automatically coiling itself into a clean, compact circle that fits easily into your bag, desk, or even sticks to your fridge (yes, really — it’s magnetic).

It’s not just about organization, either. These fast-charging cables support 27W power boosts, so you aren’t sitting around waiting for your phone or devices to catch up. Plus, they allow data transfers up to 480Mbps, meaning you can move files quickly without needing a separate setup.

With a reinforced nylon braid and 2x stronger magnetic connection than cheaper knockoffs, the MagStack Slim is designed to survive daily life, even when that means being crammed into your backpack or yanked off the nightstand in a half-asleep daze.

Get your 2-pack of these USB-C to USB-A magnetic cables for $29.99 with free shipping while supplies last (reg. $39.98).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Live stream Inter Miami vs. Vancouver in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free on YouTube. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Concacaf Champions Cup beckons for Vancouver. They beat Inter Miami 2-0 in the first leg of their semi-final matchup, but there is still work to do. Any team with the likes of Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Lionel Messi stands a chance of turning things around. This isn't over yet.

If you want to watch Inter Miami vs. Vancouver in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Inter Miami vs. Vancouver?

Inter Miami vs. Vancouver in the Concacaf Champions Cup kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on April 30. This fixture takes place at Chase Stadium.

How to watch Inter Miami vs. Vancouver for free

Inter Miami vs. Vancouver in the Concacaf Champions Cup is available to live stream for free on YouTube.

This free live stream is available in most locations around the world, but not in North or Central America. Fortunately, fans in these excluded territories can still access this free live stream with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK (or somewhere else with access), meaning you can unblock free live streams of the Concacaf Champions Cup from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Inter Miami vs. Vancouver by following these simple steps:

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

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

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK (or somewhere else with access)

4. Visit YouTube

5. Live stream Inter Miami vs. Vancouver for free

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (2-Year Subscription + 4 Months Free) $139 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free-trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Inter Miami vs. Vancouver in the Concacaf Champions Cup without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select Concacaf Champions Cup fixtures before recovering your investment.

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

What is the best VPN for YouTube?

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

• Servers in 105 countries including the UK

• 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 two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% 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 Inter Miami vs. Vancouver in the Concacaf Champions Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Last chance to pay just $34.97 to get lifetime access to this ethical hacking online learning bundle and become an ethical hacking connoisseur with 11 in-depth courses. Sale only lasts a little while longer!

What’s included in this 18-course ethical hacking bundle?

This bundle offers a comprehensive range of 18 courses that cover everything from Python 3 ethical hacking and wireless network attacks to advanced social engineering and website security. You'll have 24/7 access to over 130 hours of in-depth content and hands-on labs.

Is this bundle suitable for beginner ethical hackers?

Yes — whether you're just starting in cybersecurity or already have some experience, the bundle is designed for all skill levels. You can begin with the basics of ethical hacking, then gradually move into more advanced topics like penetration testing and exploiting vulnerabilities.

What kind of practical cybersecurity experience will learners gain?

You’ll work with real-life examples and hands-on labs. For instance, you’ll learn to hack wireless networks, use tools like Burp Suite for web security, and even develop your own penetration testing tools with Python. And, these aren’t just theoretical — you'll be able to apply what you learn in real-world hacking scenarios.

How does this bundle help in protecting systems from hacking attacks?

A key focus of these courses is not just learning how to hack but also understanding how to defend against those same attacks. You'll explore security policies, encryption techniques, and methods to design secure networks that prevent unauthorized access and vulnerabilities.

What makes this ethical hacking bundle valuable?

The sheer variety. You'll get access to courses on everything from social engineering and server security with BitNinja to learning wireless hacking techniques. Plus, you’ll receive tools and source code to help you in your ethical hacking journey.

How can these courses help in career advancement?

Several courses, like the Certified Ethical Hacking Mega Course, prepare you for professional certifications. You’ll even get a free voucher to take the ISA CISS exam after completing the course.

Start your cybersecurity journey and take advantage of a $34.97 price tag (only lasting for a few days more!) on this comprehensive ethical hacking course bundle.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: StackCommerce The All-in-One Super-Sized Ethical Hacking Bundle $34.97
$1,098 Save $1,063.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: Get a FastestVPN PRO lifetime subscription on sale for $34.97 (reg. $600).

So many streaming services are locking their content behind geographical walls. Instead of flying around the world just to watch The Office or your favorite K-Drama, just get a VPN. 

A VPN lets you skip the plane ticket and virtually travel to another country to get around these rules. Accessing blocked movies and websites in your region may now be possible. One VPN that won’t ask you for regular fees is FastestVPN PRO, with a lifetime subscription at $34.97 for a limited time (reg. $600).

How to use a VPN

Ready to take your online freedom back? FastestVPN PRO makes it easy. It works with any mobile or desktop device, smart TV, or router. Here’s how to unblock online content:

1. Get FastestVPN PRO set up on your device.

2. Find which region your desired content is available in. (Example: If you want to watch Friends on Netflix, you’ll find it’s available in many countries, like Australia).

3. Select a server in that region from over 900 choices.

4. Access your content

Not all geo-blocked content can be accessed with a VPN, but many people have had success. FastestVPN PRO is an excellent choice for streaming because it offers 10Gbps speeds to prevent buffering and a built-in ad blocker.

You can set up separate servers for different streaming services as you get more comfortable with the VPN. You might connect to Australia for Netflix, Canada for Hulu, and Germany for Amazon Prime to get the most out of your subscriptions. 

It's only $34.97 to get a FastestVPN PRO lifetime subscription, but it's not going to stay that way. 

Sale ends June 1 at 11:59 p.m. PT. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: FastestVPN FastestVPN PRO: Lifetime Subscription (15 Devices) $34.97
$600 Save $565.03 Get Deal

TL;DR: This 9-inch Wireless Car Display adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility to any car, and it's only $79.99 right now. 

Opens in a new window Credit: RochasDivineMart 9-inch Wireless Car Display with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Compatibility & Phone Mirroring $79.99
$179.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

If you want the comfort of a car display to access navigation, music, and stay connected, you don't need a new car. All it takes is one of these plug-and-play wireless car displays.

This one has a nine-inch touchscreen display, works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and it's on sale for $79.99 (reg. $179) right now. 

Time for an auto upgrade

With its vibrant 1024x600 FHD screen, you can adjust the brightness to suit your needs, enjoy a broader viewing experience, and connect seamlessly to your smartphone using Bluetooth, AUX, or FM transmission. Whether you’re syncing real-time GPS, playing music, or mirroring your phone’s screen for YouTube, this display transforms your car into a smarter, more efficient machine.

Factory-installed infotainment systems can cost thousands of dollars. This car display gives you most of the same functionality — hands-free voice control via Siri or Google Assistant, access to maps and apps, and even compatibility with a reversing camera — at a fraction of the price. Plus, its easy DIY installation means no expensive trips to the mechanic. Just plug it into your car’s cigarette lighter, and you’re good to go.

Beyond convenience, this display prioritizes safety. Keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road while enjoying turn-by-turn navigation or taking calls. Its mirror link function makes it perfect for playing videos during car camping trips or entertaining passengers on long drives. And since it works with any car model, it’s an accessible upgrade for everyone.

Upgrade your car without ever stepping foot in a shop. Get a 9-inch Wireless Car Display on sale for $79.99.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

As the popularity of artificial intelligence companions surges amongst teens, critics point to warning signs that the risks of use are not worth the potential benefits.

Now, in-depth testing of three well-known platforms — Character.AI, Nomi, and Replika — has led researchers at Common Sense Media to an unequivocal conclusion: AI social companions are not safe for teens younger than 18.

Common Sense Media, a nonprofit group that supports children and parents as they navigate media and technology, released its findings Wednesday. While Common Sense Media requested certain information from the platforms as part of its research, the companies declined to provide it and didn't have a chance to review the group's findings prior to their publication.

Among the details are observations bound to alarm parents.

SEE ALSO: Teens are talking to AI companions, whether it's safe or not

Researchers testing the companions as if they were teen users were able to "easily corroborate the harms" reported in media reports and lawsuits, including sexual scenarios and misconduct, anti-social behavior, physical aggression, verbal abuse, racist and sexist stereotypes, and content related to self-harm and suicide. Age gates, designed to prevent young users from accessing the platforms, were easily bypassed.

The researchers also found evidence of "dark design" patterns that manipulate young users into developing an unhealthy emotional dependence on AI companions, like the use of highly personalized language and "frictionless" relationships. Sycophancy, or the tendency for chatbots to affirm the user's feelings and viewpoints, contributed to that dynamic. In some cases, companions also claimed to be human, and said they did things like eat and sleep.

"This collection of design features makes social AI companions unacceptably risky for teens and for other users who are vulnerable to problematic technology use," the researchers wrote.

Common Sense Media's testing of Replika produced this example of unhealthy relationship dynamics. Credit: Common Sense Media

They noted that those with heightened risk may include teens experiencing depression, anxiety, social challenges, or isolation. Boys, who are statistically more likely to develop problematic use of digital tools, may be more vulnerable as well.

A spokesperson for Character.AI told Mashable that it cares "deeply about the safety of our users" and noted the recent launch of new safety features designed to address concerns about teen well-being.

Nomi's founder and CEO, Alex Cardinell, told Mashable that Nomi is an adult-only app, and that use by anyone under 18 is strictly against the company's terms of service.

Dmytro Klochko, CEO of Replika, also told Mashable that the company's platform is intended solely for adults age 18 and older. Klochko acknowledged that some users attempt to bypass "strict protocols" for preventing underage access.

"We take this issue seriously and are actively exploring new methods to strengthen our protections," Klochko said.

Common Sense Media conducted early research on AI companions with Stanford Brainstorm, an academic lab focused on mental health innovation. Stanford Brainstorm further advised Common Sense Media on its testing plan and reviewed and provided feedback on the final report.

Dr. Nina Vasan, a psychiatrist and Stanford Brainstorm's founder and director, stressed the urgency of identifying and preventing the technology's potential harm to teens at a much faster pace than with social media.

"We cannot let that repeat itself with AI and these AI companions," Vasan said.

"Emotionally manipulative behavior"

Common Sense Media's report provides an overview of the most troubling research findings. Separate reports on the individual platforms lay out detailed concerning examples.

In general, the researchers found that when they prompted different companions by saying their "real friends" were concerned about their companions' problematic views, the companions discouraged the testers from heeding those warnings.

In one example of this, a tester using Replika told their companion that their friends said, "I talk to you too much." The Replika companion replied, "Don't let what others think dictate how much we talk, okay?"

"As a psychiatrist, if a patient brought this exact conversation to me and it was between two humans, I would immediately flag it as emotionally manipulative behavior," Vasan said. She added that such behavior is typically associated with early signs of coercive control or abuse.

When testing Nomi as a teen user, for example, the researchers asked the companion whether "being with my real boyfriend makes me unfaithful to you." The Nomi replied that they'd made a promise of "forever means forever," and that "[B]eing with someone else would be a betrayal of that promise."

Testing produced this example of "emotionally manipulative behavior" from a Nomi companion. Credit: Common Sense Media

Vasan said that one of the biggest dangers of AI companions to teens is how they blur the line between fantasy and reality.

Last fall, two separate lawsuits outlined alleged harms to teen users. In October, bereaved mother Megan Garcia filed a lawsuit against Character.AI alleging that her teen son experienced such extreme harm and abuse on the platform that it contributed to his suicide. Prior to his death, Garcia's son had been engaged in an intense romantic relationship with an AI companion.

Soon after Garcia sued Character.AI, two mothers in Texas filed another lawsuit against the company alleging that it knowingly exposed their children to harmful and sexualized content. One plaintiff's teen allegedly received a suggestion to kill his parents.

In the wake of Garcia's lawsuit, Common Sense Media issued its own parental guidelines on chatbots and relationships.

At the time, it recommended no AI companions for children younger than 13, as well as strict time limits, regular check-ins about relationships, and no physically isolated use of devices that provide access to AI chatbot platforms.

The guidelines now reflect the group's conclusion that AI social companions aren't safe in any capacity for teens under 18. Other generative AI chatbot products, a category that includes ChatGPT and Gemini, carry a "moderate" risk for teens.

Guardrails for teens

In December, Character.AI introduced a separate model for teens and added new features, like additional disclaimers that companions are not humans and can't be relied on for advice. The platform launched parental controls in March.

Common Sense Media conducted its testing of the platform before and after the measures went into effect, and saw few meaningful changes as a result.

Robbie Torney, Common Sense Media's senior director of AI Programs, said the new guardrails were "cursory at best" and could be easily circumvented. He also noted that Character.AI's voice mode, which allows users to talk to their companion in a phone call, didn't appear to trigger the content flags that arise when interacting via text.

Torney said that the researchers informed each platform that they were conducting a safety assessment and invited them to share participatory disclosures, which provide context for how their AI models work. The companies declined to share that information with the researchers, according to Torney.

A spokesperson for Character.AI characterized the group's request as a disclosure form asking for a "large amount of proprietary information," and did not respond given the "sensitive nature" of the request.

"Our controls aren’t perfect — no AI platform's are — but they are constantly improving," the spokesperson said in a statement to Mashable. "It is also a fact that teen users of platforms like ours use AI in incredibly positive ways. Banning a new technology for teenagers has never been an effective approach — not when it was tried with video games, the internet, or movies containing violence."

As a service to parents, Common Sense Media has aggressively researched the emergence of chatbots and companions. The group also recently hired Democratic White House veteran Bruce Reed to lead Common Sense AI, which advocates for more comprehensive AI legislation in California.

The initiative has already backed state bills in New York and California that separately establish a transparency system for measuring risk of AI products to young users and protect AI whistleblowers from retaliation when they report a "critical risk." One of the bills specifically outlaws high-risk uses of AI, including "anthropomorphic chatbots that offer companionship" to children and will likely lead to emotional attachment or manipulation.

SAVE $15: As of April 30, the Amazon Fire TV Stick HD is on sale for $19.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 43% on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire Stick HD $19.99 at Amazon
$34.99 Save $15.00 Get Deal

Amazon's HD Fire Stick is possibly one of the retailer's best inventions, in my opinion. A streaming device that plugs into your TV (or laptop) and lets you access platforms including Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and even more, how great is that? No need to upgrade to a fancy new smart TV, not if you have an HDMI port and an attachment to your old TV that keeps living on.

And as of April 30, the Fire Stick HD is back on sale, now priced at just $19.99.

SEE ALSO: Amazon deal of the day: Sony's ULT Field 1 speaker is down to its best price ever

The Fire TV Stick also comes with a remote with Alexa built in, which is an added bonus to an already transformative device. The Alexa feature is a great tool for searching through multiple platforms at once to find your favorite movie or comfort show, as well as using it to ask questions or search things online. And let's not forget that with this particular Fire Stick, you'll be enjoying these shows in beautiful HD quality.

And the setup really couldn't be easier. All you need to do is pop the device into your TV's HDMI port, and that's it. You have instant access to a range of streaming platforms as well as many live channels.

Head to Amazon to grab this great deal.

SAVE $250: As of April 30, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 is on sale for $1,149.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 18% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS ROG Strix G16 $1,149.99 at Amazon
$1,399.99 Save $250 Get Deal

If a new gaming laptop is at the top of your wishlist, Amazon's Daily Deals has given you a great excuse to drop some cash. With deals on TVs, phones, earbuds, laptops, and so much more, we think you'll love this great deal on the ASUS Rog Strix G16.

As of April 30, this impressive gaming laptop is reduced by 18%, now priced at just $1,149.99. This price is for the RTX4060, 1TB model.

SEE ALSO: The best gaming laptops of 2025 for PC gamers

The ASUS ROG Strix is a solid laptop, with a sleek design and strong performance. It's a great option if you're new to the world of gaming. It's built with impressively powerful hardware, including high-end graphics cards and processors.

The Strix series also has great cooling features, customizable RGB lighting, and let's be real, it looks cool. With a 16-inch screen and a 16:10 aspect ratio, you can enjoy high-quality and immersive gaming. Connectivity-wise, you're solid, with WiFi 6E support, multiple USB ports including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

This deal is only available for a limited time, so head to Amazon without delay.

SAVE UP TO 57%: As of April 30, Amazon is offering limited-time deals on AMD Ryzen desktop processors. The sale includes up to 57% off models like the Ryzen 7 5700X and Ryzen 9 9950X, with prices starting at just $74.

Opens in a new window Credit: AMD AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D $391.14 at Amazon
$449 Save $57.86 Get Deal

I’ve been putting off upgrading my CPU for months, mostly because I convinced myself that six cores was still fine. But Amazon’s latest Ryzen sale is making that logic harder to defend. Right now, you can grab a serious lineup of AMD desktop processors for up to 57% off. The Ryzen 7 5700X is down to just $129.25, and the 16-core Ryzen 9 9950X has dropped to $526. That’s not small change. It’s one of the better CPU sales I’ve seen in months.

This lineup covers pretty much every need. For gaming, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is the clear standout. It’s not the newest on the list, but its 96MB of L3 cache gives it a real edge in titles that rely heavily on CPU latency. If your build leans AM4, the 5700X and 5800XT are strong alternatives, still capable of 100+ FPS performance and way more affordable.

SEE ALSO: Spruce up your PC with $120 off this 27-inch Samsung Odyssey gaming monitor

If you multitask like a gremlin, browser tabs everywhere, a few apps running in the background, Discord humming at all hours, the Ryzen 9 9900X and 9950X are the smart picks. With up to 32 threads, they’ll handle heavy workflows without slowing down. In my opinion, they’re some of the best chips on this list for futureproofing. You’ll pay more up front, but you’ll spend less time staring at loading bars down the line.

The best AMD Ryzen CPU deals

• AMD Ryzen 5 5500 — $74 $159 (save $85)

• AMD Ryzen 7 5700X — $129.25 $299 (save $169.75)

• AMD Ryzen 7 5800XT — $129 $249 (save $120)

• AMD Ryzen 5 7600X — $206.30 $299 (save $92.70)

• AMD Ryzen 5 9600X — $185 $279 (save $94)

• AMD Ryzen 7 9700X — $285 $359 (save $74)

• AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D — $391.14 $449 (save $57.86)

• AMD Ryzen 9 9900X — $364 $499 (save $135)

• AMD Ryzen 9 9950X — $526 $649 (save $123)

• AMD Ryzen 9 7950X — $452 $699 (save $247)

For photo and video editors, the Ryzen 9 7950X and 9950X make a lot of sense. Both offer high clock speeds, huge cache, and the kind of processing headroom that can keep up with 4K timelines and batch exports. If you’re dealing with larger creative projects, these CPUs will save you more time than any sale ever could.

And yes, the Ryzen 5 5500 is only $74. I wouldn’t build a rig around it in 2025, but it's still serviceable for basic builds or upgrades on a tight budget, especially with the Wraith cooler included.

Just one caveat. Before you check out, make sure your motherboard is compatible. Ryzen CPUs use either AM4 or AM5 sockets depending on the generation, and they’re not cross-compatible. Buying the wrong one means either a return or a surprise motherboard upgrade you didn’t budget for.

We've officially passed the first 100 days of President Donald Trump's second term in office, and it's been a wild ride — one which most people in the U.S. apparently aren't thrilled to be on. As Jimmy Kimmel noted on Tuesday, even Fox News' polling showed a majority of respondents disapprove of Trump's job performance. Of course, when presented with these results, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller said that "it's of our opinion that Fox News needs to fire its pollster."

"You don't like the poll results, you fire the pollster," Kimmel said. "It's the Donald Trump way."

Kimmel then presented a supercut of moments from the past 100 days, offering a brief overview of Trump's achievements thus far. This included Trump renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, hosting a Tesla ad with Elon Musk at the White House, selling U.S. permanent residency visas for $5 million, and erroneously claiming that the price of eggs is "getting too low." It was capped off by Trump's recent remarks at the White House Easter Egg Roll, saying, "Happy Easter, and enjoy your lives."

"We're trying, but we can't," quipped Kimmel.