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Anthropic Invests $20 Million in Super PAC to Counter OpenAI

NYT Technology - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 07:07
Anthropic and OpenAI now have their own well-funded political groups that will square off in the midterm elections over artificial intelligence safety and regulation.

30 sexy Valentines Day gifts that will hit harder than a generic box of chocolates

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 06:26

The dinner reservation is just the preamble. Valentine’s Day is the one night of the year you have a calendar-official excuse to shut the door and focus entirely on each other. But true romance shouldn't mean buying cheap novelty gags or uncomfortable lingerie you only wear once. There are much more impactful spicy gift ideas out there, and we narrowed down a list of the best sexy Valentine's Day gifts for your boyfriend, girlfriend, someone more permanent, or someone more casual.

We're talking about lubes that won't ruin your sheets, toys that do the heavy lifting, and games that help you skip the small talk. If they get turned on by the real sentimental stuff, just know that these DIY photo gift ideas aren't as innocent as they appear. Whether you're looking to break out of a routine or just want to see what happens when you introduce a projector to the bedroom, these are the gifts that pay off long after February.

How to watch Daytona 500 live: streaming details

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 06:19
Ways to watch Daytona 500 at a glance: Fox One free 7-day trial, then $19.99/month Get Deal Fox One (Prime Video add-on) free 7-day trial, then $19.99/month Get Deal YouTube TV free 10-day trial, then $59.99/month for 2 months Get Deal Best Buy Essentials Ultra-Thin Indoor HDTV Antenna $24.99 Get Deal

The biggest annual event in the NASCAR Cup Series regular season, Daytona 500, kick-starts the auto-racing calendar this weekend. This year marks the 68th year of The Great American Race at Daytona International Speedway. This year, 41 drivers will compete in the 200-lap (500-mile) race. So far, 37 are locked and loaded and eight drivers must compete for the final four spots.

Want to tune in live? Here's what you need to know about the 2026 race and how to watch it for free.

When is the Daytona 500?

The 68th Daytona 500 will take place on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. ET and will run through 6:30 p.m. ET.

The final four spots have yet to be decided. Two will lock in through single-car qualifying on Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 8:15 p.m. ET and the final two will get in through the duels on Thursday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. ET.

What channel is the Daytona 500 on?

The kickoff of the NASCAR Cup Series regular season, a.k.a The Great American Race, will be aired live on Fox for those with cable or an over-the-air antenna. To watch the qualifying and duels on Wednesday and Thursday, you'll need FS1.

How to watch the Daytona 500 without cable

Lucky for NASCAR fans (and other sports fans for that matter), Fox finally launched its own direct-to-consumer streaming service in 2025. Previously, cord-cutters would need a pay TV provider like YouTube TV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, or Sling to watch live Fox channels, but the new streaming service Fox One offers a more affordable option. And if you only want to watch the Daytona 500, you can get it for free with a seven-day trial.

Fox One is essentially a one-stop shop for the entirety of the Fox TV portfolio, giving subscribers access to live local Fox stations, as well as Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, Big Ten Network, Fox News, Fox Business, Fox Weather, Fox Deportes, and Fox Network. It costs $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year and you can choose between subscribing directly through Fox or signing up as a Prime Video add-on. Plus, as mentioned above, you'll get your first week free if you're a new subscriber. That means you can watch Sunday's race for free.

Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One free 7-day trial, then $19.99/month Get Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One (Prime Video add-on) free 7-day trial, then $19.99/month Get Deal

If you've already exhausted your free trial for Fox One and are looking for another way to watch Daytona 500 for free, you could sign up for a free trial of cable replacement services like YouTube TV (10-day trial), Fubo (3-day trial), or Hulu + Live TV (3-day trial). Just be sure to cancel before the trial is up or you'll be hit with a hefty monthly subscription cost.

Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube YouTube TV free 10-day trial, then $59.99/month for 2 months Get Deal

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention digital antennas as an alternative way to watch. Digital antennas give you access to your local Fox, CBS, NBC, and ABC stations for free. As long as you live decently close to your local TV station broadcast towers, you'll be able to watch for free — just be sure to check the distance and range before making a purchase. Our friends at PCMag (which is owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis) have a few recommendations, including this basic one from Best Buy that retails for just $24.99. It's reversible to match your decor, multidirectional, and has a range of 50 miles.

Opens in a new window Credit: Best Buy Best Buy Essentials Ultra-Thin Indoor HDTV Antenna $24.99
  Get Deal

Walmart has launched its Presidents Day sale — find live deals on TVs, Apple, laptops, and more

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 06:12
The best Walmart Presidents' Day deals at a glance: Best tech deal Apple AirTag 1st gen (4-Pack) $64 (save $35) Get Deal Best headphones deal Apple AirPods 4 $99 (save $30.99) Get Deal Best TV deal TCL 85-inch QM7K QD-Mini LED QLED 4K TV $1,798 (save $701.99) Get Deal Best home deal Dyson V9 Motorbar Cordless Vacuum $299.99 (save $300) Get Deal

The first big shopping holiday of 2026 has nearly arrived and all the major retailers have deals popping up across all sorts of categories. While you may think of mattress deals when you think of Presidents' Day, there are plenty of other discounts on everything from TVs to headphones. If you prefer to shop at Walmart, we've rounded up all the best Presidents' Day deals you can shop now.

We expect more discounts to arise as the official holiday — falling on Feb. 16, 2026 — inches closer. We'll update this list with any new noteworthy deals. For now, here are the best Presidents' Day deals to shop at Walmart.

Best tech deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirTag (4-Pack) $64 at Walmart
$99 Save $35   Get Deal Why we like it

The AirTag is the ring leader when it comes to Bluetooth trackers. As long as there's an Apple device nearby with Find My turned on, AirTags allow you to locate whatever you attach your AirTag to with ease. Now that a newer model has arrived, you can snag a four-pack of the still-great first-generation trackers for much less.

More tech dealsBest headphones deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods 4 $99 at Walmart
$129.99 Save $30.99   Get Deal Why we like it

It's not everyday you can score a pair of AirPods for under 100 bucks. While the basic AirPods 4 don't offer noise cancellation, they do offer personalized spatial audio, voice isolation, Siri interactions, improved sound quality, and a comfier and more snug design. Mashable's reviewer said the sound is "like honey."

More headphones and earbuds dealsBest TV deal Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL 85-inch QM7K QD-Mini LED QLED 4K TV $1,798 at Walmart
$2,499.99 Save $701.99   Get Deal Why we like it

According to our pals at ZDNET (also owned by Mashable's publisher, Ziff Davis), "This QD Mini-LED display delivers stunning brightness and impressive contrast on par with OLED TVs at a far more accessible price." It combines QLED and OLED technologies to deliver a picture that's rich, deep, and bright in any circumstance. It also features a 144Hz refresh rate, Game Accelerator 288, Dolby Atmos Audio elevated by Bang & Olufsen speakers, and AIPQ Processor PRO. All in all, the 85-inch model is an excellent value for under $1,800.

More TV dealsBest home deal Opens in a new window Credit: Dyson Dyson V9 Motorbar Cordless Vacuum $299.99 at Walmart
$599.99 Save $300   Get Deal Why we like it

Dyson isn't exactly known for its affordability, but this $300 discount on the V9 Motorbar cordless vacuum makes luxury more accessible. It features a trademark Motorbar head, which glides across all floor types, as well as a hair screw tool that can detangle pet hair as it sucks it up. And of course, in true Dyson form, it can convert to a handheld device instantly.

More home and kitchen deals

Jimmy Kimmel responds to Pam Bondis chaotic Epstein hearing

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 06:11

U.S. attorney general Pam Bondi faced questions from Democrats about her department's handling of the Epstein files on Wednesday, and things quickly escalated into shouting and chaos.

In the clip above Jimmy Kimmel commentates on clips from the hearing, from Bondi clashing with various lawmakers to avidly defending Donald Trump and describing him as "the most transparent president in the nation's history."

"That's right. He's so transparent you had to black out his name like a thousand times," says Kimmel.

"Seriously, there's nothing to defend here. This Department of Justice is hiding the names of people who are not victims. Why are they doing that? If they have nothing to hide, why are they hiding names? That's the only question anybody needs to ask. It's maddening."

The best Presidents Day Apple deals — huge discounts on AirPods, iPads, Apple Watches, and more

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 06:08
The best Presidents' Day Apple deals at a glance: Best AirPods deal Apple AirPods 4 $99 (save $30) Get Deal Best Apple Watch deal Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS + Cellular, 42mm) $299 (save $200) Get Deal Best iPad deal Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WiFi, 128GB) $489.99 (save $109.01) Get Deal Best MacBook deal Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $849 (save $150) Get Deal Best Apple accessory deal Apple AirTag (1st Gen) $17 (save $12) Get Deal

The Apple Store only runs sales during the back-to-school and Black Friday seasons (though they're usually skippable). That leaves third-party retailers in charge of picking up the slack for other holidays throughout the year, including Presidents' Day, which falls on Monday, Feb. 16 this year.

As we head into the long weekend, I'm seeing some pretty decent discounts on Apple gadgets across Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. They're not the steepest markdowns most of these devices have ever enjoyed, but they take some of the edge off a premium tech upgrade — or a really, really nice Valentine's Day gift for someone special.

SEE ALSO: All the new products Apple could release in March: iPhone 17e, iPad Air, MacBooks

Pro tip: Opt for a last-gen model to save the most. Walmart has an Apple Watch Series 10 with cellular connectivity on sale for $200 off, which makes it the same price as a non-cellular Series 11. The big-box store is also selling first-gen AirTags for only $17 a pop. They sold out on Amazon earlier this week after falling to the same price there.

For more good Presidents' Day deals on non-Apple stuff, check out our dedicated guides to Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart's sales this weekend.

Best AirPods deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirPods 4 $99 at Amazon and Walmart
$129 Save $30   Get Deal Why we like it

The non-ANC AirPods are some of our top budget earbuds. They connect seamlessly with iPhones, sound great, and last for up to five hours at a time. (Their included charging case offers up to 30 total hours of juice.) Amazon and Walmart both have them on sale for $99, or 23% off. They're 99 cents pricier at Best Buy.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPods 4.

More Presidents' Day deals on AirPodsBest Apple Watch deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS + Cellular, 42mm) $299 at Walmart
$499 Save $200   Get Deal Why we like it

The previous version of Apple's flagship wearable has a thin, bright OLED display, fast charging, and tons of built-in health sensors, including a blood oxygen monitor. It supports all the latest watchOS 26 features like Workout Buddy, Sleep Score, and hypertension notifications. Compared to the newer Series 11, the only "upgrades" the Series 10 lacks are a slightly better battery life and more scratch-resistant glass.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple Watch Series 10.

More Presidents' Day deals on Apple WatchesBest iPad deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Air, 11-inch (M3, WiFi, 128GB) $489.99 at Amazon
$599 Save $109.01   Get Deal Why we like it

With a speedy processor and a long battery life, the M3 iPad Air is our favorite Apple tablet for most people. (The regular iPad is pokier and better for kids, while the iPad Pro is overkill.) "It will be your new go-to device for streaming, reading, or creative projects," writes Mashable's Samantha Mangino. The base model with 128GB of storage is on sale for $489.99 on Amazon, which is its lowest price since Black Friday. It's nearly $60 more expensive at Best Buy.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple iPad Air (M3).

More Presidents' Day deals on iPadsBest MacBook deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $849 at Amazon
$999 Save $150   Get Deal Why we like it

Apple's current MacBook Air is an exceptional value at full price, so it's a no-brainer recommendation whenever it goes on sale. It features a nice 12MP webcam, a snappy keyboard, and a crisp display, and its M4 chip is miles faster than any other Windows laptop at its price point. It also comes in a slightly pricier 15-inch size if you want a bigger screen and better audio quality. That one's on sale for $150 off at Amazon, too. (Both versions are $50 more expensive at Best Buy, so stick with Amazon.)

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple MacBook Air (M4).

More Presidents' Day deals on MacBooksDeals on MacsBest Apple accessory deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple AirTag (1st Gen) $17 at Walmart
$29 Save $12   Get Deal Why we like it

The original AirTag has fallen to its lowest price ever in the wake of its successor's release last month. They're very similar Bluetooth trackers; the newer one just adds a bigger tracking range and a louder speaker. If you need a couple extra for your keys, wallet, or pet, you can snag a four-pack on sale for only $64 at Amazon and Walmart (another all-time low). That works out to just $16 per AirTag. For reference, Best Buy is selling them individually for $24.99 and bundled for $69.99.

Read Mashable's breakdown of the differences between the first- and second-gen Apple AirTags.

More Presidents' Day deals on AirTagsDeals on Apple PencilsDeals on iPhone cases and accessoriesDeals on Apple chargers, charging cables, and adapters

This 40-inch curved Samsung gaming monitor has hit its best price of 2026 — save over $400

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:58

TL;DR: The Samsung 40-inch Odyssey G7 curved gaming monitor is currently on sale for $749.99 at Amazon, down from its usual $1,199.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung 40-inch Odyssey G7 Curved Gaming Monitor $749.99 at Amazon
$1,199.99 Save $450 Get Deal

Samsung is one of the best premium gaming monitor brands, and this latest deal on a curved model might be what you need to finally upgrade. As of Feb. 12, the 40-inch Odyssey G7 model has fallen to $749.99 at Amazon, cutting nearly 40% off its list price for $450 off. 

This monitor has a massive 21:9 WUHD panel that’s designed to wrap around your field of vision thanks to its aggressive 1,000R curve, making it ideal for sim racing games like Assetto Corsa Competizione, RPGs along the lines of Baldur’s Gate 3, or multitasking across multiple windows while working or streaming on key platforms like Twitch.

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When you consider that this model also promises a 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, any game you play will give you ultra-smooth performance. The boosts from VESA DisplayHDR 600 contrast with brighter highlights and deeper shadows, while the ultrawide resolution offers plenty of workspace for your editing, streaming, or running side-by-side apps using picture-by-picture modes. 

Samsung isn’t the only brand with solid deals on gaming monitors. The 27-inch Asus ROG Strix is currently on sale. As for LG, you can grab the 300Hz UltraGear monitor for only $226.99.

The Eufy X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum has dropped to its lowest-ever price — save $250 at Amazon

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:55

Save $250: As of Feb. 12, the Eufy X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum is on sale for $449.99 at Amazon. That's a 36% discount on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Eufy Eufy X10 Pro Omni Robot Vacuum $449.99 at Amazon
$699.99 Save $250   Get Deal

The Eufy X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum is back on sale at Amazon, and this time it's down to its lowest-ever price. As of Feb. 12, it is priced at $449.99, down from $699.99. That's a saving of $250, and the perfect excuse to treat yourself to some low maintenance cleaning.

And this model isn't just a robot vacuum, it's a mop too. It has mop pads that self-wash with fresh water and dry with 45°C heated air, so your floors will stay spotless. The 2.5 liter dust bag only needs replacing every two months. It also has a Pro-Detangling roller brush, so it's ideal for homes with pets. The 8,000 Pa suction power lifts even the toughest dirt.

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This vacuum handles its own navigation, with the AI.Map 3.0 letting you set No-Go Zones and virtual boundaries. The AI.See obstacle avoidance tool can detect over 100 objects it needs to avoid (shoes, wires, anything that you don't want vacuumed up).

Get this robot vacuum deal at Amazon.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Lite is down to $279.99 at Amazon — save $70

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:52

SAVE $70: As of Feb. 12, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Lite is on sale for $279.99 at Amazon. That's a 20% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Lite $279.99 at Amazon
$349.99 Save $70   Get Deal

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Lite is back on sale, and right now you can save $70 on the list price. As of Feb. 12, this impressive tablet has been reduced from $349.99 to $279.99. This price is for the 128GB option in the color gray. This model also comes with the S Pen which you can use for writing and drawing.

This Samsung tablet has a 10.9-inch display with Vision Booster adjusting brightness to suit your environment. The screen quality is impressive, making everything you do look bright and colorful. And if you plan to use it a lot, especially on the go, this is an excellent choice. Its battery will last up to 16 hours, and the Super Fast Charging feature means it can fully recharge in around two hours.

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And don't worry about laggy or slow performance. This device is powered by the Exynos 1380 processor, so it can handle everything from streaming to a workload that sees you multitasking with several apps. It also comes packed with various intelligent features to help you complete tasks more easily. Things like Circle to Search, organizing notes, and the AI Hot Key will all improve your experience.

Get this tablet deal at Amazon now.

The Beats Studio Buds+ are still on sale at Amazon — score these earbuds for $70 off

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:41

SAVE $70: As of Feb. 12, Beats Studio Buds+ are on sale for $99.95 at Amazon. That's a 41% discount on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Beats Beats Studio Buds+ $99.95 at Amazon
$169.95 Save $70.00   Get Deal

If you've been hoping to snag a great deals on earbuds, head to Amazon because as of Feb. 12, there's a top discount on the Beats Studio Buds+.

Right now you can save $70 on Beats Studio Buds+, with the price down from $169.95 to $99.95. You can get them in three different colors, including black, transparent, and ivory.

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These Beats earbuds are an excellent choice for many reasons, including noise cancellation. In fact, they offer two listening modes: personalized Active Noise Cancelling to block out distractions and Transparency mode to let outside sound in when needed.

The battery life is impressive too, and provides up to 36 hours of listening time with the charging case. They also benefit from one-touch pairing with both Apple and Android devices. For comfort and correct sizing you'll get four silicone ear tips, so you'll be sure to have a secure and comfortable fit. And if you want to use these for workouts or rainy runs, they are IPX4-rated for sweat and water resistance.

This Beats deal is a limited-time discount at Amazon, so don't delay.

The Apple Watch Series 11 has hit a record-low price at Amazon — save $100 right now

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:33

SAVE $100: As of Feb. 12, the Apple Watch Series 11 is on sale for $329 at Amazon. That's a 23% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 11 $299 at Amazon
$399 Save $100   Get Deal

The Apple Watch Series 11 is back on sale at Amazon. As of Feb. 12, it's down to its lowest-ever price of $329 at Amazon. That's a $100 discount on its list price.

The Apple Watch Series 11 is the perfect companion for anyone who wants to track their health and wellbeing. It can detect signs of chronic high blood pressure and send hypertension notifications, helping you keep on top of your health. It's also great as a fitness tracker, with stats that include heart rate zones, training load, Pacer, and Workout Buddy, along with three months of Apple Fitness+ included.

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It has advanced sleep tracking, giving you a sleep score to help you better understand your rest, and includes features like on-demand ECG readings, high and low heart rate alerts, irregular rhythm notifications, sleep apnea alerts, blood oxygen readings, and overnight health metrics in the Vitals app.

The battery life lasts up to 24 hours with normal use, and fast charging provides up to eight hours of use in around 15 minutes, so your set for all lengths of activities, even marathon training.

Get this Apple Watch deal from Amazon now.

The Magic: The Gathering Aetherdrift Bundle is over $10 off at Amazon

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:31

TL;DR: The Magic: The Gathering Aetherdrift Bundle is now down to $39.99 at Amazon, knocking $14 off its $53.99 list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Magic: The Gathering Magic: The Gathering Aetherdrift Bundle $39.99 at Amazon
$53.99 Save $14 Get Deal

Bundles have been a surprising category for Magic: The Gathering discounts, and the Aetherdraft Bundle is no exception. As of Feb. 12, the collection has dropped to $39.99 at Amazon — a solid discount that makes it easier to jump into one of the game’s more action-focused expansions without committing to a full booster box.

Unlike traditional fantasy-leaning sets, Aetherdrift leans into a multiversal ‘death race’ theme, built around speed, vehicles, and adrenaline-fueled gameplay. The set’s particular vibe makes it an interesting pick for players who want something a little different from classic Magic aesthetics, while still offering plenty of deck-building potential for casual sessions or returning players looking to refresh their collections.

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Inside the bundle, you’ll get nine Play Boosters, a Bundle-exclusive alternate-art foil promo card, and 40 land cards split between foil and nonfoil versions. There’s also a spindown life counter, storage box, and reference cards — extras that help make this a beginner-friendly pickup or an easy gift for longtime fans. Each Play Booster contains 14 trading cards with at least one Traditional Foil and the chance at multiple rares, adding a bit of unpredictability to every pack. 

For more MTG bargains, the Bloomburrow Play Box has hit its lowest price for 2026 on Amazon.  Alternatively, you can still save $25 off the Magic: The Gathering Edge of Eternities Play Booster Box

The Pokémon TCG: Collector Chest is down to market price on Amazon — save over $10

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:28

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG: Collector Chest (Fall 2025) has dropped to $39.85 at Amazon — $18 off its $57.99 list price and edging closer to current market value.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG: Collector Chest Fall 2025 $39.85 at Amazon
$57.99 Save $18.14 Get Deal

As has been the case for a while, Pokémon TCG products rarely stay affordable for long, especially when sealed collections offer a mix of packs and exclusive extras. As of Feb. 12, the Pokémon TCG’s Fall 2025 Collector Chest has dropped to $39.85 at Amazon, taking $18 off its standard retail price. That’s a notable dip for a bundle that’s typically hovered above market value during recent restocks.

Inside the metal case is a spread of Pokémon TCG must-haves aimed at both casual collectors and regular pack-pullers, including:

  • Six Pokémon TCG booster packs (three Mega Evolution, two of Journey Together, and one Destined Rivals)

  • Three foil promo cards featuring Ralts, Kirlia, and Riolu

  • A Mega Lucario Pokémon coin

  • Four colorful sticker sheets

  • A mini portfolio for storing cards

The sturdy lunchbox-style tin also doubles as storage, which adds some practical value beyond the packs themselves. 

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Considering that six-pack bundles alone can creep towards the $50-$60 range in today’s market (equal to around the price of $10 per pack), this drop puts the Collector Chest closer to what many collectors consider a fair buy. You’re still getting a mix of trading card expansions rather than a single set, but for anyone chasing promos or simply looking to open packs without paying inflated prices, it’s one of the more balanced Pokémon TCG deals available right now.

For saving more on Pokémon TCG packs, the Mega Evolution — Ascended Heroes Tech Sticker Collections are on sale at Amazon. Meanwhile, you can also save $10 on the Pokémon TCG Phantasmal Flames 3-Pack Blisters

How to watch Latvia vs. USA in mens ice hockey online for free

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:22

TL;DR: Live stream Latvia vs. USA in men's ice hockey for free on CBC Gem. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Are we heading towards a showdown between USA and Canada in the international men's ice hockey? There's a lot of hockey to be played before medals come into the equation, and nothing is guaranteed at this level. Every side possesses a lot of talent, so USA will need to be at their best to overcome Latvia in their opening game.

If you want to watch Latvia vs. USA in men's ice hockey for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Latvia vs. USA?

Latvia vs. USA in men's ice hockey takes place at 3:10 p.m. ET on Feb. 12. This fixture takes place at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena.

How to watch Latvia vs. USA for free

Latvia vs. USA in men's ice hockey is available to live stream for free on CBC Gem.

CBC Gem is geo-restricted to Canada, 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 Canada, meaning you can access free live streams of the 2026 winter sports ice hockey from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Latvia vs. USA in men's ice hockey for free 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 Canada

  4. Visit CBC Gem

  5. Watch Latvia vs. USA for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the ice hockey before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for CBC Gem?

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including Canada

  • 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 10 simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Latvia vs. USA in men's ice hockey for free with ExpressVPN.

How to watch Czechia vs. Canada in mens ice hockey online for free

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:18

TL;DR: Live stream Czechia vs. Canada in men's ice hockey for free on CBC Gem. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There's a lot of top international ice hockey taking place right now, but Canada always get a lot of attention. The men's ice hockey schedule has officially started, and Canada face off against Czechia in their opening game. We're expecting an exciting battle between two talented sides.

If you want to watch Czechia vs. Canada in men's ice hockey for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Czechia vs. Canada?

Czechia vs. Canada in men's ice hockey takes place at 10:40 a.m. ET on Feb. 12. This fixture takes place at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena.

How to watch Czechia vs. Canada for free

Czechia vs. Canada in men's ice hockey is available to live stream for free on CBC Gem.

CBC Gem is geo-restricted to Canada, 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 Canada, meaning you can access free live streams of the 2026 winter sports ice hockey from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Czechia vs. Canada in men's ice hockey for free 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 Canada

  4. Visit CBC Gem

  5. Watch Czechia vs. Canada for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the ice hockey before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for CBC Gem?

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including Canada

  • 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 10 simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Czechia vs. Canada in men's ice hockey for free with ExpressVPN.

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for February 12, 2026

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:07

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

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

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

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026:

AcrossTequila cocktail that often comes in a salt-rimmed glass, casually
  • The answer is Marg.

Signature export of Cuba
  • The answer is Cigar.

Bowl over
  • The answer is Amaze.

Flood regulator
  • The answer is Levee.

Classroom station
  • The answer is Desk.

DownActed without saying anything
  • The answer is Mimed.

Desert plant used in tequila production
  • The answer is Agave.

Demolishes
  • The answer is Razes.

Language from which we get "cosmos" and "democracy"
  • The answer is Greek.

Berkeley campus, for short
  • The answer is Cal.

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

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

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

Ford Will Make a Play for a Different Battery Market

NYT Technology - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:03
The company, long focused on cars and trucks, plans to begin manufacturing large batteries used by utilities, data centers, other businesses and homeowners.

Laid-Off Battery Plant Workers Pin Blame on Ford, not Trump, for Lost Jobs

NYT Technology - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:02
Ford Motor shut down a battery factory and laid off 1,600 workers after President Trump and Republicans gutted government support for electric vehicles.

How to watch Switzerland vs. France in mens ice hockey online for free

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:01

TL;DR: Live stream Switzerland vs. France in men's ice hockey for free on CBC Gem. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Men's international ice hockey started with a couple of entertaining games from Group B. Slovakia vs. Finland and Sweden vs. Italy got things going, and now the remaining teams are prepared to take things up a notch. The next batch of games starts with Switzerland vs. France. It's not got the same level of interest as the games involving USA and Canada, but there are plenty of star players on show here.

If you want to watch Switzerland vs. France in men's ice hockey for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Switzerland vs. France?

Switzerland vs. France in men's ice hockey takes place at 6:10 a.m. ET on Feb. 12. This fixture takes place at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena.

How to watch Switzerland vs. France for free

Switzerland vs. France in men's ice hockey is available to live stream for free on CBC Gem.

CBC Gem is geo-restricted to Canada, 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 Canada, meaning you can access free live streams of the 2026 winter sports ice hockey from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Switzerland vs. France in men's ice hockey for free 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 Canada

  4. Visit CBC Gem

  5. Watch Switzerland vs. France for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the ice hockey before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for CBC Gem?

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

  • Servers in 105 countries including Canada

  • 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 10 simultaneous connections

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream Switzerland vs. France in men's ice hockey for free with ExpressVPN.

Astronomers discover the surprising reason for a stars disappearance

Mashable - Thu, 02/12/2026 - 05:00

The steady beam of a star twice the size of the sun played a trick on astronomers about a year ago: It vanished. 

Then some nine months later, it reappeared in the constellation Monoceros, about 3,200 light-years away in space.

Now researchers think they've solved the mystery of one of the longest star-dimming events ever recorded. The star, called ASASSN-24fw, may have disappeared behind a giant planet with an enormous system of rings, according to new research, blocking most of its light from reaching Earth for nine months. 

The study, which appears in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, serves as a reminder that worlds around other stars can have ring systems far larger and more complex than anything in our own solar system.

"Long-lasting dimming events like this are exceptionally uncommon as they require very perfect line-ups," said Sarang Shah, lead author at the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics in India, in a statement. "The dimming began gradually because the outer parts of the rings are thin, and only became obvious when the denser regions passed in front of the star."

SEE ALSO: These 'avatars' will fly around the moon with NASA's Artemis 2 astronauts

Near the end of 2024, astronomers noticed the star suddenly grew faint. Rather than brighten in days or weeks like most dimming events, ASASSN-24fw faded for nearly 200 days. The star's cheeky name comes from the All Sky Automated Survey for Supernovae, a robotic telescope based in Hawaii nicknamed "Assassin." 

After trying various computer models to explain the event, the team concluded the culprit was either a brown dwarf or a super-Jupiter planet, both large objects that are smaller than stars but bigger than most worlds. Experts sometimes refer to brown dwarfs as failed stars because they're not quite massive enough to generate their own nuclear power. 

Researchers believe a brown dwarf or super-Jupiter blocking ASASSN-24fw formed a nearly opaque saucer covering the star, through which only a tiny amount of its light could escape. Credit: S. Shah et al. / DOI: 10.1093/mnras/staf2251 illustration

The team's top explanation involves a brown dwarf surrounded by humongous rings, similar in shape to Saturn's but vastly larger, eclipsing the star. In this case, the rings are estimated to stretch about 15.8 million miles from the brown dwarf, about half the distance between the sun and Mercury.

As the ring system moved in front of the star, it blocked about 97 percent of ASASSN-24fw's light. By studying changes in the star's brightness and light patterns — methods astronomers use to infer mass and motion — the team estimates the hidden object weighs more than three times as much as Jupiter.

The data also suggest the star itself has leftover material close by, possibly debris from past or ongoing planetary collisions. That is unusual for a star believed to be more than a billion years old.

Researchers think the brown dwarf or giant planet that eclipsed the star had a ring system similar to Saturn's, seen here, though vastly larger. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / Space Science Institute

"Large ring systems are expected around massive objects, but they are very difficult to observe directly to determine their characteristics," said Jonathan Marshall, a coauthor affiliated with Academia Sinica in Taiwan, in a statement. 

The researchers now want to measure the star's temperature, makeup, age, and life stage. They plan to gather more data using powerful observatories, including the Very Large Telescope in Chile and the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA's leading infrared observatory.

They expect the star to dim again in roughly 42 years, when the ringed object returns, offering another chance to study this unusual system, said Marshall, whose expertise is in circumstellar material and debris disks.

"This rare event allows us to study such a complex system in remarkable detail," he said. "In fact, while studying this dimming, we also serendipitously discovered that ASASSN-24fw also has a red dwarf star in its vicinity."

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