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One AI image generator lets you create NSFW art, and it’s only $40 for life

Mashable - 5 hours 30 min ago

TL;DR: Create anything, even NSFW art, with a lifetime subscription to Imagiyo for only $39.97.

Digital creativity has never been more accessible, yet many of us remember the days when crafting a single image meant wrestling with layers and plugins for hours on end. Now there’s a way to generate stunning visuals in seconds simply by typing a description of what you have in mind.

Imagiyo uses Stable Diffusion AI alongside FLUX AI to turn text prompts into high-quality images ready for commercial use, and there aren’t many limits to what you can create. Here’s what that means.

What art can you make with Imagiyo

What do you want to make first? It only takes a brief description to put Imagiyo’s advanced algorithms to work, and unlike other image generators, Imagiyo actually lets you really follow your creativity. Craft stunning landscapes, visualize characters from books, or go for something a little more daring. Imagiyo supports NSFW content creation. Just set your prompts to private and let your mind run wild.

Imagiyo’s commercial-use license means you can take some of the images you generate and incorporate them into client projects, social media campaigns, or personal portfolios without fear of copyright issues.

Each month, you receive 500 image-generation credits and can submit up to two prompts at once. Unused credits roll over, so you never lose access to your creative potential. Best of all, Imagiyo delivers your purchased engine updates and feature improvements automatically, ensuring you always work with the latest AI models.

You have until June 1 at 11:59 p.m. PT to get an Imagiyo AI Image Generator lifetime subscription for $39.97 (reg. $495).

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Opens in a new window Credit: Imagiyo Imagiyo AI Image Generator: Lifetime Subscription (Standard Plan) $39.97
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One Montessori-inspired app is making screen time educational for kids 2-8

Mashable - 5 hours 30 min ago

TL;DR: Pok Pok is an educational app for kids 2-8, and it’s only $49.99 for life with code SAVE10.

It’s hard to avoid screen time with kids. They see you on your phone and want something of their own. The secret is that screentime isn’t inherently bad. Pok Pok offers a refreshing alternative by combining the playfulness of a toy chest with the gentle guidance of Montessori principles. Designed for kids aged two to eight, this platform encourages curiosity through hands-on games that build fundamental skills in math, science, language, and creative thinking, and it’s only $49.99 (reg. $250) for a lifetime subscription.

An educational app for kids

From the moment your child taps open Pok Pok they enter a world free of advertisements and clutter. The handcrafted art and soothing sounds draw children in without overwhelming their senses. Every activity invites low-stimulation exploration so youngsters can learn cause and effect by experimenting at their own pace. A built-in hint system even keeps frustration at bay.

Because Pok Pok works offline, it’s the perfect companion for family road trips or waiting rooms. There are no surprise charges or data-hungry ads, and the tantrum-free design means you can pause play anytime without protest. Parents trust this award-winning collection of educational games to foster problem-solving and early STEM awareness while offering a guilt-free introduction to screen time.

Behind the scenes early childhood experts collaborated with Pok Pok’s developer-parents to make sure every interaction supports natural development. The app adapts to each child’s growth with open-ended scenarios that remain engaging from toddlerhood through the early school years. Whether they’re building outer-space worlds or assembling jigsaw puzzles of real-life scenes, your child enjoys endless discovery without ever needing a menu or written instructions.

Use code SAVE10 by June 1 at 11:59 p.m. PT to get a Pok Pok Lifetime Subscritpion on sale for $49.99.

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Lock down your online privacy for the price of a cup of coffee — iProVPN is less than $30 for three years

Mashable - 5 hours 30 min ago

TL;DR: Add another layer of digital protection to your browsing and devices with iProVPN’s three-year plan, now available for $29.99 (reg. $324).

If you’re looking to secure your online activity without breaking the bank, iProVPN’s three-year subscription plan offers excellent value. Priced at $29.99 (reg. $324) for three years, that’s just over $1 per month — a significant discount from the standard $10 monthly rate for other VPNs on the market.

With this plan, you gain access to over 350 servers in 47+ countries, allowing you to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from around the globe. Meaning? If you’re still upset by Netflix US’s removal of The Office or Rick and Morty, you can still stream those shows and other content via Netflix France, Australia, etc.

iProVPN also supports up to 10 devices simultaneously, so you can run it on your phone, laptop, tablet, and more, all without juggling multiple logins. The subscription also includes one year of free password manager access and a bonus month of 2TB of cloud storage for extra digital functionality. Say goodbye to low storage notifications across your devices or misplacing passwords with these additional features.

Security features include:

  • 256-bit AES encryption: Ensures your data is protected with industry-standard encryption.

  • No-logs policy: iProVPN does not store any logs of your online activity, prioritizing your privacy.

  • Kill switch and ad-blocking: Additional layers of security to protect your information.

  • WireGuard protocol: Offers faster speeds for streaming, browsing, and gaming.

  • P2P support: Optimized servers for peer-to-peer activities.

If you’re in the market for a reliable VPN service that balances affordability with robust features, iProVPN’s 3-year plan is worth considering.

Don’t wait to protect your online life — secure your data and devices with this iProVPN three-year subscription for just $29.99 while supplies last.

iProVPN: 3-Year Subscription

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Wipe out ads and trackers for good with AdGuard—it’s just $16 for life

Mashable - 5 hours 30 min ago

TL;DR: Use code FAMPLAN to grab AdGuard’s ad-blocker, malware protection, and more for nine devices for only $15.97 (reg. $169.99).

It probably feels like ads are everywhere these days, whether it’s those unskippable YouTube videos, pop-ups on websites, or oddly specific promos that make you wonder if your phone is eavesdropping on your conversations. Instead of putting up with it all for one more day, you can finally block the noise with AdGuard.

The AdGuard Family Plan offers a one-and-done solution to annoying ads and online threats. It not only wipes out interruptions across your devices, but also adds a strong layer of protection for your peace of mind. For a limited time, you can score lifetime access for just $15.97 (reg. $169.99) with code FAMPLAN at checkout.

With more than 1,400 five-star reviews, AdGuard has earned its sterling reputation as a comprehensive ad-blocking and privacy tool. It blocks banners, pop-ups, and even those dreaded mid-video ads. You can also create custom filters to fine-tune what you see — or don’t — on specific sites and platforms. Missed something? You can manually block it, too.

But it’s more than an ad-blocker. AdGuard acts like a low-key security guard for your digital life, helping you avoid malware, phishing sites, and creepy trackers trying to harvest your data. It’s privacy protection that actually works without slowing you down.

Since this plan works across up to nine devices — including Mac, Windows, iOS, or Android — it’s great for anyone with a multi-device setup or a full household. Families will especially like the parental controls that keep the internet safe for kids, letting them access only kid-friendly content like Peppa Pig or Bluey without straying into questionable territory.

You can finally ditch the interruptions and browse the web on your terms. Get an AdGuard Family Plan lifetime subscription for just $15.97 with code FAMPLAN. You’ll have to act quickly since this coupon code won’t last forever.

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The best comedies on Max right now

Mashable - 5 hours 30 min ago

Want something to tickle your funny bone but don’t want to spend hours perusing your options? Picking a comedy to watch can be tricky, because humor is a matter of taste. But worry not, because we cater to all sorts with our watch guides.

Whether you’re hankering for a comedy classic or a modern hit, a feel-good crowd-pleaser or an oddball critical darling, an outrageous musical or a candy-colored fantasy, we've got you covered. Giggles to chuckles, guffaws to belly laughs — Max can get you whatever laughs you need.

Here are the best comedy movies now streaming on Max.

20. Home Again

Want a deeply charming comedy about a May-December romance? Then you'll fall for Home Again.

Hallie Meyers-Shyer's directorial debut stars Reese Witherspoon as Alice Kinney, a Los Angeles mother of two spirited daughters, who's staring down her 40th birthday while separated from her husband (Michael Sheen). Her friends are desperate to set her up with an appropriate could-be beau. But then she crosses paths with not one but three fun-loving twentysomethings who're looking to make it as filmmakers. Only one of them (Pico Alexander) will end up in her bed. But all three become a vibrant and welcomed presence in the life of Alice and her kids. Even if her husband is less than thrilled!

Warm and witty, Home Again is an absolute delight. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: Home Again is now streaming on Max.

19. Severance

Nope! Not the Apple TV+ hit. Before Adam Scott was splitting himself into innie and outie, this 2006 horror-comedy offered its own cutting commentary on corporate culture.

From writer/director Christopher Smith (Black Death, Triangle) comes a silly slasher set at a company retreat. Employees at a British office travel to the mountains of Hungary, ostensibly to learn how to work better as a team. But paintball and social awkwardness give way to running for their lives when a mysterious killer begins — to use a corporate parlance — cutting heads. If your sense of humor is on the sick side, you'll appreciate Smith and company's Severance. K.P.

How to watch: Severance is now streaming on Max.

18. Y2K Credit: Nicole Rivelli / A24

If you love '90s nostalgia and wacky horror/comedies, you'll treasure Y2K. Saturday Night Live's Kyle Mooney makes his directorial debut with this goofy movie, which imagines that when the clocks clicked over into the year 2000, mankind's greatest fears were realized. Specifically, all our coolest tech — from Tamagotchis to CD players — would gain artificial intelligence and go on a murderous rampage. 

This AI ambush pitches high school wallflower Eli (Jaeden Martell) and his outgoing goofball bestie Danny (Julian Dennison) into a battle for their lives. And all their classmates at a New Year's Eve house party become their anxiety-ridden allies as the war between man and machine gets very ridiculous. To Mooney's credit, he heaps plenty of delicious, era-appropriate details into Y2K, which will give children of the '90s palpable flashbacks. But the comedy itself gets wobbly as the funniest characters get killed off. In my review out of its SXSW premiere in 2024, I determined, "Y2K is a good time, but falls short of greatness."*K.P.

How to watch: Y2K is now streaming on Max.

17. Pee-wee's Big Adventure

If you’re searching for something off the beaten path, check out Tim Burton’s lively feature directorial debut. The weird but enchanting worlds he’d come to create in films like Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice, and Batman Returns got their start in this bombastic road trip movie about a boy in search of his stolen bicycle.

SEE ALSO: 'Pee-wee as Himself' trailer: Meet Paul Reubens, the genius behind your favorite playhouse

Cheeky comedian Paul Rubens stars as Pee-wee Herman, a live wire (loner and rebel) whose determination to reclaim his beloved bike takes him on a jubilant journey across the nation. At every pit stop, he finds friends, trouble, or both! With this giddily odd movie, grown-ups can revel in the nostalgia of the madcap humor of the "Tequila" dance and the frightful thrill of Large Marge. Kids can freshly enjoy Pee-wee's wackiness and marvel over what a PG-movie looked like in 1985. — K.P.

How to watch: Pee-wee's Big Adventure is now streaming on Max.

16. Singin' in the Rain Credit: Silver Screen Collection / Moviepix via Getty Images

Craving something that’ll not only make you laugh but also make you want to get up and dance? Then splash into the stupendous pleasures of this 1952 classic, co-directed by Stanley Donen and Hollywood legend Gene Kelly. The latter stars as a vaudevillian who has worked his way up from stuntman to silent movie star. As the sound era shakes up the film industry, he hopes to make sweet music with an enchanting ingenue (a beaming Debbie Reynolds). However, his cantankerous leading lady (a ruthlessly silly Jean Hagen) won’t be sidelined without a fight! Full of meta jokes, charming banter, hysterical hijinks, and astonishing song numbers, Singin' in the Rain is one of the best musical comedies that's ever been made. Come for the jokes. Stay for the signature dance number that's as astonishing now as it was decades ago. Then, let the romance of this feel-good film sweep you away. — K.P.

How to watch: Singin' in the Rain is streaming on Max.

15. Barbie Margot Robbie is Barbie in "Barbie." Credit: Warner Bros.

Frankly, the promotional journey for Barbie was so full of pink, so joyful, so fun, that would have been Kenough. The movie could have been a silly trifle, and we'd likely have been pleased. But writer/director Greta Gerwig brought us the universally heralded coming-of-age comedy Lady Bird and then the rapturous reimagining of Little Women. Her Barbie wasn't going to stop at playful. Instead, it parodied the patriarchy with horses, Stallone-inspired fashion, and a rousing dream ballet fueled by an actual banger, "I'm Just Ken."

Margot Robbie was picture-perfect as a Barbie who realizes the world is much bigger than the dreamhouse-dotted Barbie Land. Ryan Gosling snagged the rare comedy Oscar nomination for his delightfully deranged take on the insecure man doll who couldn't cope, and so turned to conquering. (Napoleon relates!) While detractors have argued the film's girl-power messaging is simplistic, it's hard to deny that Gerwig did more with this IP than we could have dreamed. Sure, Barbie is a glossy toy commercial. But it's a glossy toy commercial that not only has something to say, but does so through spectacular filmmaking that folds in eye-popping practical effects, enthralling details, discontinued dolls, and jokes that were way outside the box. From Weird Barbie to that on-point Pride and Prejudice mini-series namedrop, Barbie had us so giddy that we felt like kids again.* — K.P.

How to watch: Barbie is now streaming on Max.

14. Problemista Credit: A24

Is your favorite brand of comedy the bleak, existential kind? Then Julio Torres' Problemista is the surreal and fractured fairy tale for you. Torres (who also wrote and directed the film) stars as Alejandro, an imaginative toy designer trying to make it in New York City. But when he's fired from his job at a cryogenics facility, Alejandro needs to find a new visa sponsor or he'll be deported. Enter Tilda Swinton as Elizabeth, a temperamental, delusional harridan — and the wife of one of Alejandro's former frozen clients. Alejandro must figure out how to manage Elizabeth's ever-changing whims while navigating the labyrinthine U.S. immigration process and keeping his dream alive. — Kristina Grosspietsch, Freelance Contributor

How to watch: Problemista is now streaming on Max.

13. Lady Bird

Saoirse Ronan is completely captivating as the artsy Christine (aka Lady Bird), with dreams bigger than her Sacramento suburb will allow. She's constantly at odds with her mother (Laurie Metcalf) and is struggling to find her path. Will she get into her dream school on the East Coast? Could her family even afford it if she did? 

A coming-of-age dramedy about a teenager redefining her relationship with her parents and yearning to leave home, Greta Gerwig's Lady Bird is simply sublime. It's a fantastic encapsulation of adolescent angst, poking fun at the self-seriousness of 17-year-olds while maintaining empathy for even the moodiest of high school crushes (a perfectly cast Timothée Chalamet). — K.G.

How to watch: Lady Bird is now streaming on Max.

12. Modern Times Credit: Hulton Archive / Moviepix via Getty Images

Charlie Chaplin was a king of comedy in the silent film era, rolling his iconic Little Tramp into such side-splitters as City Lights, The Gold Rush, and The Kid. These and many more Chaplin offerings are available on Max. Subscribers can easily look back at how American physical comedy was forged through set pieces both silly and sensational. You really can’t go wrong when it comes to Chaplin, but we're highlighting Modern Times because even though it's set in 1936, its humor is truly timeless. Taking on a string of industrial jobs while romancing a charming gamin, Chaplin zips from one zany bit to another with a captivating waddle and a chipper twitch of his mustache, fearlessly throwing himself face-first into the wildest shenanigans. Plus, as this film includes some scenes with sound and dialogue, it's maybe the most accessible introduction to Chaplin's works. — K.P.

How to watch: Modern Times is streaming on Max.

11. Unpregnant

Many excellent films about the hardships this country forces women to undergo in order to receive an abortion are fittingly stirring and sobering. 2020's Unpregnant, on the other hand, is a ridiculous road trip/buddy comedy about abortion that seems like it shouldn't work, but it does. And we love it! 

Haley Lu Richardson (White Lotus) is Veronica, an over-achieving 17-year-old in Missouri who needs a "procedure." But the closest place a minor can get an abortion without parental consent (and Veronica's parents are very religious) is over a thousand miles away in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She seeks the help of her former best friend, high school misfit Bailey (Barbie Ferreira), for a ride. A charming look on modern female friendship, a wacky road trip misadventure, and a thoughtful take on reproductive rights, all wrapped into one! And don't miss an unexpectedly laugh-out-loud cameo from Giancarlo Esposito. — K.G.

How to watch: Unpregnant is now streaming on Max.

10. Keanu Credit: Warner Bros / Everett / Shutterstock.com

Long before Jordan Peele became Hollywood's foremost horror auteur, he was doing ridiculous and boundary-pushing comedy alongside Keegan-Michael Key. Their magnum opus? 2016's absurd buddy action/adventure Keanu. Rell (Peele) and Clarence (Key) are normal, if somewhat boring, cousins who find themselves embroiled in a drug-smuggling scheme when Rell's kitten, Keanu, goes missing. When Rell adopted the little ball of fur, he had no idea Keanu previously belonged to a cartel boss. Now that it seems Keanu has been cat-napped, Clarence and Rell will stop at nothing to get him back. Keanu is a fun, fast-paced, and ludicrous ride starring two infectiously watchable comedians at the top of their game — and a criminally cute kitten! — K.G.

How to watch: Keanu is streaming on Max.

9. Tampopo Credit: Apic / Moviepix via Getty Images

A spirited spoof tipping its hat to the Spaghetti Western, this 1985 Japanese comedy was promoted as a "ramen Western." Its central story is about a cowboy hat-wearing truck driver (Tsutomu Yamazaki) who comes across a humble ramen shop where the food is truly "terrible." Damsel-in-distress Tampopo (Nobuko Miyamoto) begs this hardened hero to save her family's business by teaching her to do right by ramen. So of course, he rounds up a posse to perfect her recipe. Full of physical comedy, giddy silliness, quirky characters, and charming performances, this film is a delectable delight. But writer/director Jûzô Itami brings even more to the table, spicing up this culinary tale with fantastical vignettes about the love of food. Though often ridiculous — and sometimes salacious — none of the laughs are lost in translation. But be warned: This funny film will make you hungry. The loving shots of ramen and the various speeches about its richness and wonders are ruthlessly mouth-watering. Maybe order dinner before digging in. — K.P.

How to watch: Tampopo is streaming on Max.

8. Mamma Mia!: The Movie

Is there a more fun movie than Mamma Mia!? We're not sure there is! Adapted in 2008 from the insanely popular jukebox stage musical, Mamma Mia!: The Movie is a bubbly, pre-wedding romp stuffed with ABBA songs and storied actors who may or may not have been drunk throughout the entire course of filming. This is the height of cinema, people!

Amanda Seyfried is enchanting as Sophie, a young bride-to-be who finds her mother's journal from the year she was conceived and discovers three possible candidates for her birth father. Does she talk to her mom (a glowing Meryl Streep) about this? No! She invites them all to her wedding on the remote Greek island where she and her mom live, in the hopes she'll figure out which is her biological father before it's time to walk down the aisle. 

Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Stellan Skarsgard, Julie Walters, Dominic Cooper, and Christine Baranski fill out the charismatic cast of this most spectacularly cheerful film, which is guaranteed to leave you smiling. — K.G.

How to watch: Mamma Mia!: The Movie is now streaming on Max.

7. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World Credit: Big Talk Productions / Kobal / Shutterstock,com

A romantic comedy/action/comic book/adventure mashup, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is a simply fantastic movie through and through. More than a decade after its release, a fun, new rewatching bonus is seeing current Hollywood heavyweights (Chris Evans, Anna Kendrick, Aubrey Plaza, Kieran Culkin, and more) having fun and being silly at the start of their careers. These stars enjoyed working on the film so much, they all agreed to come back for Netflix's 2023 animated reimagining, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off

Michael Cera is iconic as the soft-spoken Scott Pilgrim, a bass player in an unsuccessful indie band who becomes enamored with delivery girl Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead). Unfortunately for Scott, to date Ramona, he’ll have to defeat her seven evil exes first! Uh oh! Good thing this movie also pulls some of its visual style from video games! That’s right, Scott Pilgrim has it all! — K.G.

How to watch: Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is now streaming on Max.

6. Shazam! 

Billy Batson is a 14-year-old living in a group home who can't seem to stay out of trouble. But when he's mysteriously transported to a mythical cave called the Rock of Eternity, a wizard grants him the power to transform into Shazam, an adult superhero. So what would a 14-year-old do if he could instantly look like a grown-up and had super strength? Make viral videos, of course! 

Shazam! is a fun and welcome twist on the classic superhero flick. Zachary Levi is pitch-perfect as a 14-year-old in an adult's body, and Mark Strong is deliciously evil as the villain trying to steal Shazam's powers for himself.* — K.G.

How to watch: Shazam! is now streaming on Max.

5. The Hangover

If you're looking for comedy of the dude variety, no film franchise is as bro-y, as raunchy, or as crude as The Hangover. In this archetypal 2000s party flick, Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, and Zach Galifianakis are taking Justin Bartha out for an epic Las Vegas bachelor party two days before his wedding. And when they wake up the next morning in a destroyed hotel room that is missing the groom-to-be but now contains a tiger (!!!), they must piece together the clues of their insane, blacked-out night to find their buddy and save his wedding. The Hangover is an adrenaline comedy, mixing gross-out humor with dumb stunts, car chases, and an excellent Mike Tyson cameo. — K.G.

How to watch: The Hangover is streaming on Max.

4. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Credit: Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc

Coming out more than 30 years after Tim Burton's Beetlejuice first delighted audiences with his madcap and macabre tale of the "ghost with the most," this sequel did what seemed impossible: It was a hell of a good time! Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O'Hara reprise their roles as, respectively, Beetlejuice, his could-have-been child bride Lydia Deetz, and her savagely chic stepmother Delia. Jenna Ortega joins the cast as Lydia's rebellious daughter Astrid, whose surprise trip to the Netherworld sends the Deetzes into an uneasy alliance with their old enemy.

SEE ALSO: 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice' star Winona Ryder reveals Lydia Deetz's full character arc leading up to the sequel

Filled with Burton's classically creepy yet enchanting character designs, oddball musical numbers, and visual gags that had audiences drop-jawed in demented glee, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a sequel true to the spirit of the original, while making fresh fun with freaky new characters, played by Willem Dafoe, Monica Bellucci, and Arthur Conti. Don't miss the fun. — K.P.

How to watch: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is now streaming on Max.

3. Dicks: The Musical Credit: Justin Lubin / A24

Sometimes a movie comes along that is so completely outrageous that it feels like a miracle it exists at all. Dicks: The Musical is such a treasure. Writers/actors/homosexuals Josh Sharp and Aaron Jackson translated Fucking Identical Twins, a two-man comedy musical once staged in the basement of a Gristedes, into a movie musical that is not only beyond bonkers but also features such big stars as Nathan Lane, Megan Mullally, and Megan Thee Stallion.

Imagine The Parent Trap as a scorching satire of queer culture and homophobic fears, and you'll get some idea of what's in store. It's not just musical numbers about the joys of putting alpha males in their place, or the madcap chaos of Mullally's ad-libs, or even national treasure Lane spitting ham at his beloved Sewer Boys. It's also got Bowen Yang as God, and a finale number that is as joyous as it is absolutely iconoclastic. 2023 was a year peppered with superb comedies, but nothing made us laugh as hard or loud or long as Dicks: The Musical.*K.P.

How to watch: Dicks: The Musical is now streaming on Max.

2. Bridget Jones's Diary Credit: Alex Bailey / Miramax / Universal / Kobal / Shutterstock.com

Bridget Jones's Diary is a perfect movie, and we're not hearing any opinions to the contrary, thank you! Renée Zellweger gained 20 pounds to snag the role of Bridget, already a beloved character in the UK thanks to Helen Fielding's wildly popular Bridget Jones novels. The Brits were in an uproar about an American being cast as in a role that was archetypally British, but Zellweger's performance (and accent!) were so spot-on, the complaints quickly gave way to rave reviews.

The start of a film franchise and the best movie of the lot, Bridget Jones’s Diary introduces us to an ordinary woman in London who, after turning 32 alone, vows to lose weight, quit smoking, stop drinking, and find love. Enter Hugh Grant as Bridget's preternaturally charming boss, and, because this is a Pride and Prejudice adaptation, Colin Firth as the man who couldn't seem more wrong for Bridget (his name is literally Mr. Darcy!!!). Even if you know where this funny and grounded rom-com is going, you're sure to have a blast along the way. — K.G.

How to watch: Bridget Jones’s Diary is streaming on Max.

1. Wonka Credit: Jaap Buittendijk / Warner Bros.

A prequel to 1971's Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory seemed an idea so preposterously cash-grabby that fans of the Gene Wilder-fronted original and Roald Dahl's children's books scoffed ahead of Wonka's release. Even the trailer got naysayers tittering about Timothée Chalamet's performance. But once this movie musical finally was shown to critics, it was determined sweet, charmingly, and scrumdiddlyumptious!

Chalamet stars as the famous chocolatier years before his factory was built. A pauper with a case of curious ingredients and a dream to make divine candy, Wonka instantly earns the ire of a nefarious chocolate cartel and a ruthless con artist played by Academy Award–winner Olivia Colman. But with a bit of ingenuity, the help of his motley crew of friends, and some pure imagination, Wonka will manifest a sweet life. Watching it happen, and listening to the jaunty tunes along the way, is a pure pleasure. But we'd expect nothing else from Paddington 1 & 2 writers Paul King and Simon Farnaby. — K.P.

How to watch: Wonka is now streaming on Max.

UPDATE: May. 5, 2025, 4:00 p.m. EDT This article was originally published September 3, 2021. It has been updated to reflect the current selection on Max.


The redesigned Kindle Scribe is down to its lowest-ever price

Mashable - 5 hours 42 min ago

SAVE $85: As of May 6, the Kindle Scribe is on sale for $364.99 at Amazon. That's a saving of 19% on list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Kindle Scribe $364.99 at Amazon
$449.99 Save $85 Get Deal

Amazon's Kindle Scribe is beloved by book lovers across the world. Released late in 2024, this model combines reading and note-taking in one handy device. Recently, the Scribe received a redesign, meaning you can now write directly on books and documents, and it's the news we've been waiting for.

If this update is the sign you've been waiting for to upgrade, you'll be pleased to know that as of May 6, the Kindle Scribe is on sale for just $364.99. This price is for the 64GB model in the color tungsten or metallic jade.

SEE ALSO: To Paperwhite or not to Paperwhite, these are the best Kindles in Amazon's lineup

This Kindle Scribe deal also comes with the Premium Pen, so you can jot down notes and convert them to text as easily as writing in a notebook. This is a big upgrade on the basic pen, as this model comes with an eraser at the top so you can quickly remove mistakes just by flipping the pen. It is also battery-free and works through a special power source embedded in the Kindle Scribe, so you don't need to charge it.

Besides its note-taking abilities, the Scribe has a 10.2-inch, 300 ppi Paperwhite display, glare and ink-free. Like the original Kindle model, it's perfect for sitting outside in the sun or in hard-to-read lighting.

Head to Amazon to grab this great deal before it runs out.

How to watch Inter Milan vs. Barcelona online for free

Mashable - 5 hours 55 min ago

TL;DR: Watch Inter Milan vs. Barcelona in the Champions League for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Fans were expecting big things from the Champions League semi final between Inter Milan and Barcelona, but the first leg exceeded all those expectations. Lamine Yamal was incredible, Inter Milan were really impressive, and it's all still to play for after an electric 3-3 draw.

If you want to watch Inter Milan vs. Barcelona in the Champions League for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Inter Milan vs. Barcelona?

Inter Milan vs. Barcelona in the Champions League starts at 8 p.m. BST on May 6. This fixture takes place at the San Siro.

How to watch Inter Milan vs. Barcelona for free

Inter Milan vs. Barcelona is available to live stream for free with a 30-day trial of Prime Video.

If this fixture is not available to watch for free where in your location, you should consider using a VPN to live stream the Champions League for free on Prime Video. The process is straightforward:

  1. Sign up for a 30-day Amazon Prime trial (if you're not already a member)

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

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

  4. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

  5. Watch Inter Milan vs. Barcelona for free from anywhere in the world on Prime Video

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 Milan vs. Barcelona on Prime Video without committing with your cash. This isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you enough time to stream select Champions League fixtures before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Prime Video?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on Prime Video, 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 Milan vs. Barcelona in the Champions League for free with ExpressVPN.

NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for May 6, 2025

Mashable - 6 hours 55 min ago

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 Tuesday, May 6, 2025:

AcrossEverest and Kilimanjaro: Abbr.
  • The answer is Mts.

A little horse
  • The answer is Foal.

A little hoarse
  • The answer is Raspy.

Perfect
  • The answer is Ideal.

Unlike houses that have been professionally staged
  • The answer is Messy.

DownHero of the Passover Seder
  • The answer is Moses.

Spanish small plates
  • The answer is Tapas.

In a sneaky way
  • The answer is Slyly.

Lessen over time
  • The answer is Fade.

What airballs fail to touch
  • The answer is Rim.

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.

Hurdle hints and answers for May 6, 2025

Mashable - 7 hours 6 min ago

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

A point.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

LOCUS

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A trench.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for May 6, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

DITCH

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Felt after losing a loved one.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for May 6 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for May 6, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

GRIEF

Hurdle Word 4 hint

Mortar used to fill gaps.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for May 6 Hurdle Word 4 answer

GROUT

Final Hurdle hint

Cooked in oil.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

FRIED

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

Lifetime Access to BitMar is less than $15

Mashable - 10 hours 30 min ago

TL;DR: There are only three days left to hop on this BitMar offer. Grab this lifetime content aggregator and get access to millions of free shows, movies, etc., for only $14.99 with code BITMAR5.

If you're tired of hopping between streaming platforms to catch your favorite shows, movies, and music, BitMar offers a refreshing alternative. With your one-time payment of $14.99 (reg. $150 with code BITMAR5, you can unlock lifetime access to an all-in-one streaming platform that consolidates content from various sources into a single, easy-to-navigate interface.

What is BitMar?

BitMar isn't just another streaming service — it's a content aggregator powered by AI, similar to Bing's search engine. It scours the web to bring you millions of free, on-demand movies, TV shows, channels, videos, and songs from platforms like YouTube and TV networks. Whether you're in the mood for a classic film, the latest TV episode, or international content, BitMar has you covered.

Check out all the other perks of owning BitMar:

  • Massive content library: Access over 200,000 channels and countless movies, TV shows, and music.

  • Ad-free viewing: Enjoy your content without pesky interruptions.

  • Multi-device support: Stream on up to five devices, including smart TVs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

  • DMCA-compliant: You'll have peace of mind knowing that all content is legally sourced and compliant with copyright laws.

  • No subscriptions: Pay once and enjoy unlimited access without recurring fees.

Why choose BitMar anyway?

With streaming costs on the rise and content spread across multiple platforms (we're looking at you, Netflix), BitMar simplifies your entertainment experience. Instead of managing multiple subscriptions, BitMar consolidates all of the best free content into one platform, saving you time when choosing what to watch and putting extra money back in your wallet.

Grab this BitMar lifetime subscription for just $14.99 — enter code BITMAR5 at checkout to grab it at this low price.

StackSocial prices subject to change

Opens in a new window Credit: BitMar BitMar Streaming Content-Finder: Lifetime Subscription $14.99
$150 Save $135.01 Get Deal

NYT Strands hints, answers for May 6

Mashable - Mon, 05/05/2025 - 22:00

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

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

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferrined pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for May 6 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for May 6 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: I'm in lobe

The words are types of ear-related.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are types of ear jewelry.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Earrings

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for May 6
  • Stud

  • Cuff

  • Earrings

  • Hoop

  • Teardrop

  • Chandelier

  • Plug

  • Clipon

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

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

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

NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for May 6, 2025

Mashable - Mon, 05/05/2025 - 22:00

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

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

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

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

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

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

  • Yellow: Winning

  • Green: Cinematic diamonds

  • Blue: Collegiate fields

  • Purple: Also known as

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

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

  • Yellow: Take out of a competition

  • Green: Baseball movies

  • Blue: Nicknames for college football stadiums

  • Purple: Famous running back nicknames

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #225 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today
  • Take out of a competition - BOUNCE, DEFEAT, ELIMINATE, KNOCK OUT

  • Baseball movies - 42, MAJOR LEAGUE, THE NATURAL, THE ROOKIE

  • Nicknames for college football stadiums - DEATH VALLEY, THE BIG HOUSE, THE HORSESHOE, THE SWAMP

  • Famous running back nicknames - BEAST MODE, LT, SWEETNESS, THE BUS

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

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

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

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

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for May 6, 2025

Mashable - Mon, 05/05/2025 - 22:00

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

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

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

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

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

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for May 6 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

  • Yellow: Quiet

  • Green: Court structure

  • Blue: Not so large

  • Purple: Sorta kidding

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: Silence

  • Green: Tennis competition units

  • Blue: Comparatively small

  • Purple: Starting with synonyms for "tease"

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #695 is...

What is the answer to Connections today
  • Silence: CALM, HUSH, PEACE, STILL

  • Tennis competition units: GAME, MATCH, SET, TOURNAMENT

  • Comparatively small: BABY, COMPACT, MINUTE, TOY

  • Starting with synonyms for "tease": KIDNEY, MOCKINGBIRD, RAZZMATAZZ, RIBBON

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for May 5

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

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

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

Wordle today: Answer, hints for May 6, 2025

Mashable - Mon, 05/05/2025 - 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 today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for May 6 Where did Wordle come from?

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

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

What's the best Wordle starting word?

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

What happened to the Wordle archive?

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

Is Wordle getting harder?

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

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for May 6, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

A premium hotel room.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

No letters repeat.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter S.

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

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

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

SUITE.

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

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

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for May 6

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

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

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

Sam Altman: OpenAI nonprofit will retain control of the $300 billion company

Mashable - Mon, 05/05/2025 - 18:41

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman made the unicorn of unicorns. In just 10 years, he created a company valued at $300 billion, and in the process, delivered a new technology with potentially world-changing implications. And he's had to do it all under the control of the OpenAI nonprofit. It's a Silicon Valley dream come true, but also a capitalist's nightmare scenario.

After previous moves to turn OpenAI into a for-profit enterprise, Altman revealed today an "updated plan for evolving [the company's] structure." In an open letter to OpenAI employees, the CEO confirmed that the OpenAI nonprofit will retain control over the for-profit LLC after all, a big victory for OpenAI's critics.

In recent years, the nonprofit status of OpenAI has become one of the biggest controversies in Silicon Valley, thanks in large part to Elon Musk's lawsuit against the company. Last year, Musk sued the ChatGPT maker for breach of contract based on its transition to a for-profit enterprise. Musk was one of the original backers of OpenAI, but after he left the company in 2018, Altman formed a "capped" for-profit LLC. Musk has been very critical of this decision, as have the attorneys general of both California and Delaware and a legion of AI skeptics.

As a result, OpenAI has maintained a strange corporate structure, with its nonprofit arm controlling its for-profit LLC. The LLC will now transition into a Public Benefit Corporation, or "a purpose-driven company structure that has to consider the interests of both shareholders and the mission," according to OpenAI. Under this arrangement, OpenAI will be legally obligated to consider more than profit motives as it delivers AI products.

"We made the decision for the nonprofit to retain control of OpenAI after hearing from civic leaders and engaging in constructive dialogue with the offices of the Attorney General of Delaware and the Attorney General of California," wrote OpenAI board member Bret Taylor in a blog post. "We thank both offices and we look forward to continuing these important conversations to make sure OpenAI can continue to effectively pursue its mission of ensuring AGI benefits all of humanity. Sam wrote the letter below to our employees and stakeholders about why we are so excited for this new direction."

In his open letter to OpenAI employees, Altman said he hopes to accomplish three things with the company's evolution: First, to allow the company to attract new investments, to create the "largest and most effective nonprofit in history," and "to deliver beneficial AGI."

AGI, or artificial general intelligence, is a loosely defined concept with shifting goalposts, but according to OpenAI, it means "AI systems that are generally smarter than humans."

And to pull off this feat, Altman says OpenAI may require trillions of dollars in additional resources.

"We want to be able to operate and get resources in such a way that we can make our services broadly available to all of humanity, which currently requires hundreds of billions of dollars and may eventually require trillions of dollars. We believe this is the best way for us to fulfill our mission and to get people to create massive benefits for each other with these new tools," Altman wrote.

Google launches a movie production initiative for an anti-Black Mirror take on tech

Mashable - Mon, 05/05/2025 - 17:36

Last month, the new season of the dystopian sci-fi series Black Mirror was released on Netflix to critical acclaim. However, while most viewers enjoyed Season 7, a few social media posts went viral wondering what a show with an optimistic view on tech would look like.

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Well, we just might soon find out.

Google has recently launched a new movie and TV show initiative called "100 Zeroes," according to a report from Business Insider. Google is partnering with Range Media Partners, the production company behind films such as A Complete Unknown and Longlegs for the initiative.

According to the report, one of Google's goals is promoting its own products. For example, a movie produced by 100 Zeroes could see its characters using an Android device instead of an iPhone. 

However, product placement isn't actually the main goal of the initiative. Google is more interested in promoting an overall positive view of technology, especially to young people.

The 100 Zeroes initiative actually started last year with quiet contributions to the marketing budget for the Neon horror film Cuckoo. The 100 Zeroes's logo was displayed in the opening credits based on its funding, but Google didn't play a role in the actual content of the movie. 

But, according to Business Insider, the film represents the type of projects Google wants to create: Movies and TV shows from respected indie studios that target Gen Z. 

In addition, the projects that Google's 100 Zeroes will back could get picked up and distributed by major film studios and streamers like Netflix. Google isn't looking to bring YouTube into the fold for this initiative, but rather mainstream TV and movie platforms.

In a post on X, Google clarified that 100 Zeroes is not a movie or TV studio. "This is not a new studio, it’s an initiative driven by our Platforms & Devices team which includes Android. We’re working with Range to assist the creative community in integrating cutting-edge technologies and platforms, like XR and AI, into their filmmaking."

So far, many creative professionals and artists have been extremely skeptical to any adoption of AI technology into the arts. With 100 Zeroes, Google will be able to promote its tools, such as its AI products, to the creatives who make movies and TV shows.

One such 100 Zeroes project to promote the use of AI has already been launched by the company. Last month, Google and Range announced its "AI On Screen" partnership, which will fund short films about AI and then greenlight a select few for full-length features.

So, those social media users who had hoped for a "tech positive" Black Mirror may soon get their wish.

Nintendo Switch 2 preorder guide: Track latest restocks, see our first-hand impressions

Mashable - Mon, 05/05/2025 - 16:36

UPDATE: May. 5, 2025, 4:00 p.m. EDT This story has been updated with the latest on Nintendo Switch 2 preorder availability at major retailers. We've also added additional information to help readers track Switch 2 restocks.

The Nintendo Switch 2 preorder date came and went in the U.S. in late April. You probably didn't get one, but that doesn't mean all hope is lost.

After a brief delay due to President Donald Trump's tariffs, Nintendo Switch 2 preorders went live online at several major retailers on April 24, predictably crashing their websites. Within hours, preorder listings for the $449.99 console at Best Buy, GameStop, Target, and Walmart were all marked as "coming soon," "not available," or "out of stock." The same applied to listings for its $499.99 Mario Kart World bundle.

Those lucky enough to snag a Switch 2 preorder will be able to pick up their new console in person at Best Buy and GameStop as soon as it launches on June 5: Both retailers are planning on opening their stores at midnight ET that day. Meanwhile, Walmart is promising to deliver preorders made before June 4 at 8 a.m. ET for free by 9 a.m. local time on June 5 (while supplies last). We've reached out to a Target rep to find out if it has any launch day plans and will update this story if we hear back.

So far, we've only heard of one restock. According to several price trackers and Reddit threads, Walmart briefly restocked its Switch 2 inventory on Saturday, April 26. Since then? Nada.

If you want to smash that refresh button at the major retailers, you're welcome to try your luck, but there are better ways. Keep reading to find out how to preorder the Switch 2 at the My Nintendo Store and how to track restocks online.

Where To Preorder Nintendo Switch 2 Preorder Switch 2 at Walmart $449.99 Pre-Order Here Preorder Switch 2 at Target $449.99 Pre-Order Here Preorder Switch 2 at GameStop $449.99 Pre-Order Here Preorder Switch 2 at Best Buy $449.99 Pre-Order Here How to preorder the Switch 2 at the My Nintendo Store

You can also try nabbing a preorder directly through the My Nintendo Store in May. Nintendo's online storefront will send out preorder invites to interested shoppers in waves starting Thursday, May 8; those with a Nintendo Account can register for access ahead of time on Nintendo's website.

Here's how it works: You go to Nintendo's website, log into an active Nintendo Switch Online account, and register your interest in a Switch 2 console or bundle. Starting on May 8 (and with other waves to follow later), eligible account holders will get email links to preorder a Switch 2 straight from Nintendo on a first-come, first-served basis.

There are, of course, a couple of weird catches to this. To be eligible, your Nintendo Switch Online account must meet the following requirements:

  • An active, paid Nintendo Switch Online account that's existed for at least 12 months

  • Your account must have 50 gameplay hours registered to it

This way, Nintendo knows you're not a filthy scalper bot. So, if you keep trying and failing with the major retailers, this is something to have in your back pocket just in case.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch 2 $449.99 at the My Nintendo Store
Register for preorder access Learn More

Shoppers will be notified via email when it's their turn to place a Switch 2 preorder, and they'll have 72 hours to do so. Preorders will be limited to one system per account.

Nintendo recently updated its preorder page to note that it's not guaranteeing release day deliveries "[due] to the very high demand," and that some invites may arrive after the official launch on June 5. (You'll receive a shipping date once you place your preorder.) The company encouraged shoppers to buy a Switch 2 from one of its retailer partners "[if] you wish to increase your opportunity of obtaining a Nintendo System 2 system at launch."

How to track Switch 2 restocks online

We recommend checking out Mashable reporter Alex Perry's in-depth guide to tracking Switch 2 restocks online. But to give you a tl;dr version, Perry says you can sign up for alerts to notify you of restocks via retailers like Walmart. However, that means you'll find out at the same time as everyone else, and these features are hit or miss.

For better luck, we recommend following inventory trackers on social media. Specifically, Jake Randall and Matt Swider on X; both have hundreds of thousands of followers and good reputations. In addition, follow Wario64, who can be found on X and BlueSky. This enigmatic operator tracks all kinds of stock alerts across the world of gaming. Wario64's covers a lot more than Switch 2 restocks, but Perry recommends the account personally, saying, "this account is how I got both a PS5 and Xbox Series X when those two consoles were hard to come by in 2020. It is not an exaggeration to say that this is one of the most important social media accounts in my life right now."

The new Nintendo Switch 2 console: All the details

The next-gen hybrid console retails for $449.99, making it $150 pricier than the original Switch from 2017 and $100 more expensive than the 2021 OLED model. It's also being sold as part of a limited-time $499.99 bundle that includes a download code for Mario Kart World, one of two exclusive launch titles.

Credit: Benedikt Wenck / picture alliance via Getty Images

The Switch 2 console will ship with the following accessories:

  • Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R)

  • Joy-Con 2 Grip

  • Joy-Con 2 Straps

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Dock

  • Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable

  • Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter

  • USB-C Charging Cable

Our first-hand impressions of the Switch 2

Mashable reporter Alex Perry got to briefly play the Switch 2 at a recent Nintendo event, and he wrote at the time, “I can confirm that Switch 2 is noticeably more powerful than the original Switch.” Overall, he said it has a premium feel and impressive performance.

“From the first second I got to hold a Switch 2 unit, I instantly liked the way it felt in my hands. The 7.9-inch 1080p display (which supports HDR and 120Hz refresh rate) is substantially nicer than the 6.2-inch 720p display on the predecessor console. In addition to a bigger screen, the Joy-Cons also have some added muscle…Doing a cross-country race across Mario Kart World's gorgeous open world without even a hint of loading between tracks is awesome. Seeing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom run at a buttery smooth 60 frames per second is very convincing in person.”

Credit: Alex Perry / Mashable How we got here

After pulling back the curtain on its new console during an April 2 Direct, Nintendo originally announced that Switch 2 preorders would open at select retailers on April 9. But two days later, the company said in a press statement that preorders were indefinitely delayed amid the Trump administration's new tariff policies and "evolving market conditions."

Nintendo eventually set the Switch 2's new preorder date in a mid-April press release — and in doing so, it confirmed that the Switch 2 and its bundle would not see a tariff-related price increase. Pricing for two of its upcoming standalone games, Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, also remain unchanged at $79.99 and $69.99, respectively.

We haven't gotten away scot-free, though: "Nintendo Switch 2 accessories will experience price adjustments from those announced on April 2 due to changes in market conditions," Nintendo said. That includes the Switch 2 Pro Controller, Joy-Con controllers, a set of two Joy-Con 2 Wheels, and a Switch 2 Camera. The company also left the door open for future price adjustments "of any Nintendo product" if market conditions change.

All the Switch 2 launch titles and games you can preorder

We've already written about the Switch 2 launch titles we're most excited to play, but there are so many more titles you'll soon be able to experience. Technically, some of the most exciting games are not launch titles, so manage your expectations. However, considering most of us won't get a Switch 2 until weeks (or possibly months) after June 5, that's not the end of the world.

The biggest title is, of course, Mario Kart World.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Mario Kart World $79.99 at Target
Release Date: July 5, 2025 Pre-order Here All the Switch 2 accessories you can preorder

Below, we've listed the updated pricing for the Switch 2's accessories. Just over half of them are now available for preorder at major retailers alongside the console itself (linked when available):

OpenAI Backtracks on Plans to Drop Nonprofit Control

NYT Technology - Mon, 05/05/2025 - 14:55
The company will become a public benefit corporation and the nonprofit that has controlled it will be its largest shareholder.

Alison Brie and Dave Franco get way too close in sickening Together trailer

Mashable - Mon, 05/05/2025 - 14:16

Alison Brie and Dave Franco give a whole new meaning to "too close to comfort" in the nauseating trailer for Neon's Together, which is sure to cook up summer scares for horror fans.

Written and directed by Michael Shanks, Together made waves at 2025's Sundance Film Festival. The film stars real-life couple Brie and Franco as fictional couple Millie and Tim, who have just made the big decision to move to the countryside. But what should have been an idyllic, fresh start quickly devolves into a body horror nightmare all about codependency.

SEE ALSO: Summer Movie Preview: What's coming to theaters and streaming?

However, the trailer starts out not with horror, but with marital ennui. Millie and Tim sleep in different rooms of their new house. He tells her he loves her, but she just responds with a flaccid "okay."

She craves something new, some kind of reconnection. But in a monkey's paw move, that wish gets a narly way of being granted in Together. As shown in the trailer, their lips meld into one another as they kiss. Their eyelashes and eyelids tangle. Millie even takes a buzzsaw to herself and Tim, presumably at a point where they're joined.

As if that weren't gnarly enough, the trailer is chock-full of other disconcerting images. Millie channels the horror classic The Exorcist with a painful backbend, then levitates and slams against a door. Tim gets dragged into a pit by unknown forces. Add a creepy, breathing cave to the mix, along with some video tapes of what appears to be an occult ritual, and we're in full nightmare territory.

Together hits theaters July 30.

The app that turns your iPhone into a scanner, and it lasts for life

Mashable - Mon, 05/05/2025 - 14:15

TL;DR: Scan anything, anywhere, with this lifetime subscription to iScanner, now A$39 (reg. A$313) with code SCAN through June 1.

Raise your hand if you've ever had to rush to the library to print something. If most of us don't have the space for clunky printers, chances are we also don't keep a scanner at home. That's what iScanner is for.

This iOS app transforms your iPhone or iPad into a handy little scanner that works for basically any document type. It's also only A$39 (reg. A$313) for a lifetime subscription

No more wasted desk space

Even if you're one of the few with a physical scanner still in your presence, you can now clear some counter space thanks to iScanner. And while you're at it, you can throw away that dusty old filing cabinet, too. 

iScanner is the number one US-based scanning and document management tool, letting you knock items off your to-do list from anywhere. Need to save a receipt for taxes? Do you have a contract you need to digitize? You can scan any document using just the phone on your iOS device. 

Students, entrepreneurs, educators, and stay-at-home moms alike will all find endless uses for a scanner in your pocket. The AI-powered tools ensure your documents' borders are detected and automatically adjusted while also straightening scan pages and ditching curves and skews. 

Thanks to AI, you can also use iScanner to help you solve complicated math problems.  Or put its OCR technology to the test and let it help you decipher text in up to 20 languages.

Once things are scanned, the app becomes a full PDF editor and file manager. Edit your scans, including signing them, adding text, or auto-filling them with custom templates. Then, use the file manager's folder via drag and drop to keep them safe and organized.

Scanning something confidential? You can also protect files and folders by locking them with a PIN. 

Use code SCAN by June 1 at 11:59 p.m. PT to get an iScanner lifetime subscription on sale for A$39. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Opens in a new window Credit: iScanner iScanner App: Lifetime Subscription AU$39
AU$313 Save AU$274 Get Deal

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