This digest compiles the latest from Mashable.
Today’s Mashable Roundup
Costco is giving away free $20 or $40 shop cards for new members
NEW COSTCO MEMBER BENEFIT: Through March 1, sign up for a new Costco Gold Star membership for $65 and get a free $20 Costco shop card. New Costco Executive memberships cost $130 and come with a free $40 Costco shop card.
Costco is a playground for adults. It’s perhaps the only place we can stock up on affordable toilet paper that’ll last for a year, get a rotisserie chicken for dinner, buy a bag of potato chips large enough for a football game party, and fill up on the infamous $1.50 hot dog combo. But the only issue with Costco is that you have to pay to play. The warehouse requires a membership to enter the magical gates, but there’s a great sale happening for new members.
Through March 1, new members can get a free $20 Costco shop card when signing up for the $65 per year Costco Gold Star membership. Those who sign up for the Costco Executive membership will get a free $40 Costco shop card for investing in the $130 per year membership.
To qualify for this deal, you’ll need to be a new Costco member. Costco considers this to be anyone who hasn’t had a membership in the last 18 months, including primary members or those part of a household membership.
The Costco Gold Star membership gains you access to shop in-store at the warehouse or online at Costco.com. The Executive membership comes with extra perks like getting into the warehouse an hour before Gold Star members, a $10 monthly credit on same-day delivery orders, and a 2% reward on eligible purchases. Both types of memberships give you access to two cards, so you can invite someone from your family or a friend to join in on your membership.
McDonald’s is giving away free McNugget Caviar kits for Valentine’s Day — here’s how to get yours
If you’ve never had the delight of entering a Costco warehouse, you’re in for a real shopping treat. The bulk retailer sells everything from Apple products to Ninja kitchen appliances to massive TVs. Of course, there’s also the deli, bakery, plentiful clothing selection, mattresses, and so much bulk food. You’ve always wanted to own 100 tortillas, right?
On top of the massive selection, Costco often has unique sales that you won’t be able to find at any other retailer. Gift cards, for example, are a great deal at Costco. Two $50 gift cards for Gap Inc. brands (Gap, Old Navy, Athleta, and Banana Republic) are selling for $79.99 instead of the standard $100. Or just in time for Valentine’s Day, Costco has two See’s Candies $25 gift cards for $38.99, instead of the standard $50 price.
If you’ve been considering signing up for a Costco membership, the free shop card offer means your membership fee is significantly reduced. The $65 per year Gold Star membership comes with a free $20 shop card, and the $130 per year Costco Executive membership earns you a free $40 Costco shop card. In either case, you’re getting free money to spend on your next trip. Sign up before March 1 to get these savings.
This 77-inch Sony OLED TV is under $1,800 (and yes, its the 2025 model)
SAVE 10%: As of Feb. 4, the 77-inch Sony Bravia XR8B OLED 4K Smart TV is on sale for $1,798 at Amazon, down from $1,998. That’s a 10% discount, or $200 in savings.
With the Winter Olympics kicking off this week, you arguably have the best excuse of the year to upgrade your TV setup. If you want a screen that does justice to the opening ceremony in Milan (and isn’t $3,000), this Sony deal is worth a look.
As of Feb. 4, the 77-inch Sony Bravia XR8B OLED 4K Smart TV is on sale for $1,798 at Amazon, down from $1,998. That’s a 10% discount, or $200 in savings. It’s also the lowest price we’ve tracked on this model to date.
For an extra $19.99, Amazon offers “Room of Choice Delivery.” It doesn’t include installation, but it ensures the delivery team carries the box to the specific room you need it in, rather than just dropping a monster-sized box in your entryway. (If you want them to unbox it and take the trash with them, the unpack and haul away upgrade is $69.99.)
Because it’s an OLED, you’re getting over eight million self-lit pixels for infinite contrast. It also runs at a 120Hz refresh rate, which is exactly what you want for watching sports or playing on a PlayStation 5 (Bonus: it has exclusive features like Auto HDR Tone Mapping that automatically kick in when you connect your console).
Special 30th anniversary Pokémon ad to air during Super Bowl LX
I don’t mean to startle anyone, but Pokémon is 30 years old this year, and you’re going to hear about it during Super Bowl LX.
The Pokémon Company put out a quick little teaser video on its YouTube channel on Wednesday morning that doesn’t say much on its own, but does tease something more in the near future. There will apparently be some kind of Pokémon 30th anniversary ad during Super Bowl LX on Sunday, and this video serves as a tease for that.
Again, the video itself isn’t much. It’s just Jigglypuff being bored and antsy on a couch.
It’s also not clear if what airs during the Super Bowl will feature any kind of news about upcoming video games, cards, toys, or TV shows, or if it’ll just be a very expensive reminder that Pokémon exists and has existed for three decades.
How to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics curling online for free
TL;DR: Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics curling for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The 2026 Winter Olympics is showcasing so many incredible sports that we wouldn’t usually get the opportunity to watch. We’re circling our calendar for the Alpine Skiing, Figure Skating, Ice Hockey, and Luge. In fact, we’re making time to watch it all.
The busy schedule starts with curling. You know, that strategic sport where players gracefully slide granite stones towards a circular target. The battle for medals is going to be intense in this competition. In the men’s event, Sweden are defending champions but Great Britain and Canada will be confident of taking gold. In the women’s event, Great Britain will be looking to defend their crown against the likes of Canada, Sweden, Switzerland, and South Korea.
If you want to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics curling for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.
When is the 2026 Winter Olympics curling?
Curling at the 2026 Winter Olympics is scheduled for every day of the games, from Feb. 4-22. Curling is held at the Cortina Olympic Stadium in Cortina D’Ampezzo.
How to watch 2026 Winter Olympics curling for free
Curling at the 2026 Winter Olympics is available to live stream for free on a number of services:
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Australia — 9Now
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Austria — ORF
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Canada — CBC Gem
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France — France TV
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Germany — ARD
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Ireland — RTÉ Player
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Italy — RAI
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Spain — RTVE
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UK — BBC iPlayer
These free live streams are geo-restricted, but anyone can bypass these restrictions with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another location, meaning you can access free live streams of the 2026 Winter Olympics curling from anywhere in the world.
Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics curling by following these simple steps:
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Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
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Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
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Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with free access
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Watch the 2026 Winter Olympics curling for free from anywhere in the world
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 curling plus the rest of the 2026 Winter Olympics before recovering your investment.
What is the best VPN for the 2026 Winter Olympics?
ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:
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Servers in 105 countries
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Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more
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Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure
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Fast connection speeds
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Up to 10 simultaneous connections
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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 the 2026 Winter Olympics curling for free with ExpressVPN.
Nintendo Direct February 2026 livestream: When is it, how to watch
After weeks of rumors and speculation, it’s official: There’s a Nintendo Direct livestream this week.
The Mario maker announced on social media channels on Wednesday morning that a Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase stream will take place 24 hours after the announcement, at 6am PT/9am ET on Thursday, Feb. 5. You can watch the showcase live on Nintendo’s YouTube channel. According to the company, it will be about 30 minutes long and will focus on games for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
I got to play the new Nintendo Switch Virtual Boy. It has the same problem it did in 1995.
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As for what to expect from the stream, Nintendo is usually pretty tight-lipped about those sorts of things ahead of time. However, the words “Partner Showcase” give us a hint. Like previous Nintendo Direct Partner Showcases, I would expect this one to focus almost entirely on third-party games rather than anything made internally at Nintendo. You might think that makes this Direct less exciting, but previous Partner Showcases have delivered the goods in the past. Just last year, Octopath Traveler 0 made its debut during one, and ended up being one of the best games of 2025, for example.
Even with the news that the Switch is the most successful Nintendo console ever this week, the company isn’t stopping anytime soon.
Score the Amzmerit smart scale for its best-ever price on Amazon — save $50 with this handy coupon code
SAVE $67: As of Feb. 4, the Amzmerit smart scale is on sale for only $49.99 at Amazon with the code TQXXS39F. That’s an extra $50 off its sale price.
While regular old scales simply measure your weight, smart scales take things multiple steps further by providing you with loads of data to help you tailor your fitness journey appropriately. Typically with the help of an app, you’ll get the full picture when it comes to your progress. It may sound expensive, but it doesn’t have to be.
As of Feb. 4, you can grab the Amzmerit smart scale on sale for only $49.99 at Amazon when you use the code TQXXS39F at checkout. It’s typically listed at $117 and is currently on sale for $99.99, but the code will knock an extra $50 off. Once you add it to your cart and head to checkout, select “use a gift card, voucher, or promo code” under your payment method options and copy/paste the code TQXXS39F into the box. You’ll see the promotion applied to your order total before you officially checkout.
The Amzmerit scale uses eight high-sensitivity electrodes to track 45 key health indicators, including weight, body fat, muscle mass, BMI, and bone mass. That data syncs with the A&P Health app, which is compatible with AppIe Health, Google Fit, and more. With historical body data and detailed charts, the app helps you track long-term metrics and get a glimpse at the bigger picture rather than focusing on daily fluctuations. You can even add data profiles for family members, including babies and pets.
Unlock the behind-the-scenes data of your health and fitness journey with the Amzmerit smart scale.
The DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is down to an all-time low price — save $500 at Amazon
SAVE 31%: The DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is on sale at Amazon for $1,099, down from its normal price of $1,599. That’s a savings of $500 and an all-time low price at Amazon.
This might not be the best season the U.S. has ever seen when it comes to snow sports, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had out there. Snow-sport season is also a pretty spectacular time to become an expert drone pilot. Imagine the drone footage you could be sharing with friends, family who couldn’t join in, or on your social channels. If you’ve been considering getting an all-in-one drone package, there’s a great deal in store at Amazon.
As of Feb. 4, the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo is down to a record-low price at Amazon of $1,099. This is a 31% discount off the standard price of $1,599 which works out to a savings of $500.
Don’t let the “pro” name psych you out. The DJI Mini 5 Pro drone is awesome for both beginners and advanced drone pilots, but it will give you instant access to pro-level video footage. This combo package features everything you could want for a drone including the DJI Mini 5 Pro drone itself, the DJI RC 2, and three DJI Intelligent Flight batteries for up to 52 minutes of flight time. Plus, tons of extra accessories like a carrying case.
The DJI Mini 5 Pro drone is packed with features that make for great footage like a timelapse function, free panorama, 4K/120fps slow-motion video, as well as true vertical filming. The vertical filming as well as the ActiveTrack 360° is a must-have if you’ll be filming sports subjects like skiers, snowboarders, or cyclists.
In case you haven’t kept up on drone news in the U.S., DJI faced an FCC ban just last December, and it’s no longer possible for DJI to sell drones in the country. However, this new legislation does not apply to stock that was already in the U.S. at the time. That means stock of DJI drones is diminishing by the day, so this deal is a great opportunity to snag a pro model that comes with great accessories.
If you could use an upgraded drone or want to get your first model, today’s record-low price on the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo could be the best opportunity to snag this model. We might not see stock last much longer.
Moonpig is giving away free greeting cards for Valentines Day — use this coupon code to qualify
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. If you’re not quite sure of the best way to tell your loved ones how you feel about them, there’s always a greeting card. Even if you have the words, a card is always a fun way to put a smile on their face, especially if it carries a silly yet thoughtful message.
Moonpig, creator of quirky and adorable greeting cards ranging from adorable to slighty spicy, wants to give you a chance to say it the best way you can with an absolutely free Valentine’s Day card. Right now, you can create and customize your own and send it absolutely free, all in just a few clicks.
Why Moonpig?
Moonpig has a wide selection of cards for just about any occasion. Whether you want to send a digital or physical card, there are tons of options for you to show you care.
In addition to cards, you can customize your own gifts and send them, including candles, candy, and more. There are also photo mugs as well that you can tweak to your liking, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, sending well wishes for a wedding, or just wanting to say you care.
How to get the free Moonpig Valentine’s Day card
The free Moonpig Valentine’s Day card is up for grabs right now at the official Moonpig storefront. To get yours, simply browse the store’s selection of Valentine’s Day designs, then select the $9.99 Standard Card option. You’ll be given the option to customize to your liking before adding to your cart.
Once at checkout, use the promo code TREAT4YOU, which will automatically discount your card and add free shipping. You’ll be able to apply this to any Valentine’s Day card, no matter who you’re shopping for. There are tons of designs to choose from, from sarcastic to sincere, and even some spicy options thrown in there as well.
There doesn’t seem to be a cutoff date, but you’ll want to get your card sooner than later. Valentine’s Day is only a couple of weeks away, after all.
Buying a Mac Mini to run OpenClaw? Save $50 when you shop at Amazon.
SAVE $50: As of Feb. 4, shop the Mac Mini with M4 chip for $549. That saves you $50 off its $599 list price — not a bad deal for those rushing to start running OpenClaw AI.
The AI community is going nuts for the OpenClaw AI Assistant. It’s an exceptionally easy-to-use AI agent and once installed can be used right away. Plus, once you start running the tool, your AI agent can join the now viral Moltbook. Moltbook is sort of like Reddit but rather than humans posting, it’s only AI agents, which has sparked online debate if these AI agents are showing signs of sentience. Spoiler: that’s not the case.
With the OpenClaw craze, people are running to buy Mac Mini computers. Why? Well, it’s easiest to run Open Claw on an Apple computer and the Mac Mini is the cheapest variation to shop now. Plus, Amazon is running a well-timed deal.
As of Feb. 4, get the Apple Mac Mini (M4 Chip, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) for just $549. That saves you $50 off its $599 list price. We’ll be honest, this isn’t the best-ever price on the Mac Mini. Previously, we’ve seen it go as low as $469, so this $549 price is pretty conservative.
That being said, if you’re looking to get your hands on a Mac Mini ASAP, this is its best price at the moment.
Act fast — a 1TB MacBook Pro for under $450 won’t last long
TL;DR: Get a laptop you can grow with, a 1TB Apple MacBook Pro, on sale now for just $439.99 (reg. $1,999), while supplies last.
Looking for a laptop that can keep up with your storage needs? With the amount of data we add every day, it’s no surprise that many of us rely on cloud storage or external hard drives to keep everything organized. This MacBook Pro not only offers the power and performance you expect from Apple’s most deluxe laptop, but it also comes with an impressive 1TB SSD.
Right now, you can get this MacBook Pro for only $439.99 (reg. $1,999), while supplies last.
Tired of getting the dreaded storage is full notification? It might be time to get a device that can keep up with all your data. This MacBook Pro comes with 1TB of SSD storage, so you can keep your important files right on your computer.
Aside from giving you plenty of space, this MacBook Pro also comes with some top-tier Apple features you’d expect — like a 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor that runs at 2GHz and has turbo boost capabilities up to 3.8GHz. Its 13.3-inch screen has a 2560×1600 native resolution, vibrant colors, and Apple’s True Tone Technology, which helps reduce eye strain by adjusting to your lighting conditions.
This model has the Apple Touch Bar, a great addition at the top of the keyboard that serves up quick shortcuts. It’s easy and comfortable to type on with the Apple Magic Keyboard, and the impressive 10-hour battery keeps you from constantly having to charge it.
Curious how you’re saving over $1,500? This model comes with a grade A refurbished status, so it will arrive in near-mint condition, and you’ll enjoy a major discount.
Get a 1TB Apple MacBook Pro for only $439.99 (reg. $1,999).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
The 49-inch OLED Samsung Odyssey G9 gaming monitor has never been cheaper on Amazon — now $500 off
TL;DR: The Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 49-inch gaming monitor is now down to $799.99 at Amazon. That’s $500 off its usual $1,299.99 list price.
If you’re a gamer who wants to invest in a big-brand OLED gaming monitor, but has been put off by the cost, Amazon has quite the Samsung deal for you.
As of Feb. 4, the 49-inch curved Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor (G91SD model) is down to $799.99 at Amazon, knocking a massive $500 off its usual $1,299.99 list price. This is the best price we’ve seen yet on Samsung’s flagship ultra-wide OLED display, as confirmed on price tracker camelcamelcamel.
With a monitor at this scale, the headline feature here is the expansive 5120×1440 Dual QHD resolution spread across a dramatic 32:9 curved OLED panel. Essentially the equivalent of two 27-inch QHD monitors fused together, this will deliver tons of horizontal space for immersive gaming on titles like Arc Raiders, multitasking on streaming platforms like Twitch, or creative work in applications like Photoshop without bezels getting in the way. Thanks to QD-OLED tech, you’ll also get inky blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast that standard LCD panels can’t match.
Performance-wise, the Odyssey OLED G9 doesn’t slack, either. The 144Hz refresh rate, paired with a near-instant 0.03ms response time keeps fast-paced games feeling smooth and responsive, while AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and G-Sync compatibility that helps eliminate screen tearing. Samsung has even included burn-in mitigation features and a fully adjustable ergonomic stand to deliver a very polished package all around.
Meanwhile, the Acer Nitro WQHD gaming monitor is at a record-low price at Amazon. For LG, the UltraGear 27-inch gaming monitor has hit its record-low price.
How to qualify for the new and exclusive Lego Mini Pokémon Center
TL;DR: Lego Insiders can exchange Insiders points for the Mini Pokémon Center. Points are available to redeem from Feb. 27, while stocks last.
The release of the first-ever Lego Pokémon sets has naturally caused a stir. Whether or not you like what you see, you just know that these sets are going to sell like mad. We regularly see huge interest in anything released by Lego and Pokémon, so any sort of collaboration between these two brands was always going to send the world into a frenzy.
There are three main sets in this initial launch, featuring fan-favorites Pikachu, Eevee, Charizard, Venusaur, and Blastoise in Lego brick form. That’s where most of the focus has been directed since preorders went live on Jan. 12, but there’s more for fans to consider if you cast your net a little wider.
From Feb. 27, Lego Insiders can redeem 2,500 Lego Insiders points for the brand-new Mini Pokémon Center. This member-exclusive build is filled with mini-scale details inspired by all the different versions of the Pokémon Center from the Pokémon games, including sliding doors that open and close using lever functions, a healing station, seating area, and PC. It’s recommended for ages 18+ and contains 233 pieces.
Not already a Lego Insider? Don’t panic, you can sign up here for free.
This set is available in select markets, while stocks last. Members will get a code to add to their next order. The code is valid for 60 days and must be entered during checkout in the field labelled “enter promo code.”
How to watch Love Island: All Stars online for free
TL;DR: Live stream the third season of Love Island: All Stars for free on ITVX. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
We should all be seeking as little drama as possible in our private lives. There’s a lot of joy to be found in a peaceful existence. That being said, there’s also a great deal of joy to be found in watching other people’s messy lives play out. And that’s exactly what Love Island provides.
The hit show delivers weeks of flirting, breakups, and passionate debate between fame-hungry singles. It’s exactly what we all need to get through these bleak winter months. And the only thing better than Love Island is Love Island: All Stars. Someone came up with the great idea to invite some of the best Love Island contestants back for a second (or third) chance at finding love.
They’re looking for love, OK? They’re not heading back for a quick paycheck. How dare you even suggest that.
If you’re interested in watching Love Island: All Stars for free from anywhere in the world, we’ve got all the information you need.
When is Love Island: All Stars in 2026?
The third season of Love Island: All Stars starts on Jan. 15. This latest season is expected to run for six weeks.
How to watch Love Island: All Stars for free in 2026
The third season of Love Island: All Stars is available to live stream for free on ITVX.
ITVX is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone from around the world can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can unblock ITVX to watch Love Island: All Stars from anywhere in the world.
Live stream Love Island: All Stars for free by following these simple steps:
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Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)
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Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)
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Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK
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Visit ITVX
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Stream Love Island: All Stars for free from anywhere in the world
The best VPNs for unblocking streaming sites are not free, but they do tend to offer free trials and money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Love Island: All Stars without committing with your cash. This isn’t a long-term solution, but it gives you time to watch a large chunk of the season before recovering your investment.
If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming services from around the world, you’ll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for streaming is on sale for a limited time.
What is the best VPN for ITVX?
ExpressVPN is the top choice for accessing free live streams on ITVX, for a number of reasons:
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Servers in 105 countries including the UK
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Easy-to-use apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, as well as platforms like Linux, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, and routers
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Strict no-logging policy
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Fast connection speeds free from throttling
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Up to 10 simultaneous connections
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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 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month subscription for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).
Live stream Love Island: All Stars for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.
The Green brothers are turning Crash Course production company into a nonprofit
Hank and John Green, YouTube icons and creators of online education shows Crash Course and SciShow, are handing over their famed production company Complexly to the public, transitioning to a nonprofit model as it combats online slop farms.
Acknowledging a rise in misinformation and low-quality content targeting online learners, Complexly’s shift to a 501(c)3 status will allow the company to pursue content that may not have commercial appeal, but instead fosters “free, independent, and trustworthy online education,” explained CEO Julie Walsh Smith. “Trust in information and access to education matter more than ever,” the company wrote in a recent press release.
“Complexly has spent 14 years building deep trust with audiences by combining creative storytelling with rigorous educational standards,” said co-founder Hank Green. Complexly was launched by the Green brothers in 2012, originally as EcoGeek LLC. The production company has since pioneered a variety of audio and video shows with support from organizations like PBS, the National Science Foundation, and Google, including SciShow Kids, podcast Dear Hank & John, and PBS offerings like The Origin of Everything and Eons.
Part of the new nonprofit model, Complexly has committed $8.5 million to produce additional educational content in the new year, including an expanded partnership with YouTube and other education partners. As a longstanding hub for educational content online, YouTube has become embroiled in its own AI-related controversies, including concerns about the prevalence of AI slop and automated content moderation. The platform has been cracking down on deepfaked content and what it calls “low-quality clutter” in response.
Meanwhile, AI startups like industry giant OpenAI have pushed toward for-profit models and native advertising to capitalize on the new information landscape, all while doubling down on chatbot-powered offerings for schools and healthcare.
“Complexly’s mission has always been to create free, high-quality, and editorially independent educational content. We built this organization for the public good, and we’re excited to complete the final chapter of putting it entirely in the public’s hands by transitioning to a nonprofit,” said now founder emeritus John Green.
The Brick taught me how to be bored again
I spend way too much time staring at screens. When I wake up, I reach for my phone first. In addition to the eight hours a day I spend typing away at my computer, my phone is always there, tempting me to open it and scroll through Instagram rather than getting my work done. When I’m unwinding with a TV show in the evening, my phone is there again, pulling my attention away from the screen. And before falling asleep, I’m once again scrolling through TikTok when I could be reading.
I’m not particularly proud of my screen time numbers or my need to be constantly stimulated. I’ve created time limits on my most distracting apps and set designated downtime schedules. But honestly, it still hasn’t been enough — getting around those limits is as easy as hitting the snooze button.
Ironically, as I tried to lower my screen time, I was targeted with Instagram ads for The Brick, which promises stricter screen time controls to actually curb my phone usage. After testing the Brick for several months, I’m thrilled to say that it helped curb my screen time — cutting it in half — and finally taught me to be bored again.
How does The Brick work?
Credit: Samantha Mangino
Screen time management apps can be great for ensuring you only spend a certain amount of time on social media a day, but there’s a big issue — they’re easy to bypass. Using my iPhone’s built-in app limits, I quickly fell into the habit of sneaking in one more minute of TikTok, which then became another hour. Brick is also an app, but it adds a physical component, too, which takes away the easy bypass.
The Brick works by locking certain apps when you tap your phone to the Brick. To unlock your phone, you have to tap it against the Brick again. However, if you’re in a pinch and really need to access your blocked apps without getting up to tap your phone, the Brick app has five emergency un-Bricks available in total. A word of caution, though, once you’ve used up these emergency un-Bricks, you have to factory reset your device to make them available again, so use them sparingly.
Previously, the Brick was only available on iOS devices; however, it’s now also available on Android smartphones. Multiple devices can be used per Brick, too. My wife and I use the same Brick, keeping it on our refrigerator for easy access.
It’s the only thing to truly get my screen time down
Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable
Having the physical component of the Brick means that if you want to access your blocked apps, you can’t just press a button. You have to get up and go to your Brick to tap your phone.
And let me tell you, that small physical element makes a world of difference. When I’m lounging on the couch in the evening and want to scroll through Instagram, even though I’m already watching a show, knowing I’d have to get up to un-Brick my phone is enough to deter me from scrolling. My favorite use of Bricking my phone is before bed, as it ensures social media isn’t the first thing I see when I wake up and forces me to get out of bed if I do want to look at it.
Plus, the Brick has given me my attention back. When I Brick my phone, it takes away the distraction so I’m not watching my phone when I should be watching TV. But the Brick is even great when I’m not trying to focus on something else. With all my most distracting apps blocked, I’m finally bored again. When I have some downtime, rather than defaulting to scrolling, it motivates me to spend more time reading or finally tackle those errands I’ve been putting off.
It cut my screen time in half
So what was the result of my using the Brick? It cut my screen time in half.
The best way to quantify the effectiveness of the Brick is through numbers. Before using the Brick, I was averaging about six hours of phone screen time a day. I didn’t set out to limit my screen time by a certain number or percentage; I just wanted it to be less. So I was shocked when using the Brick cut my screen time down to an average of three hours a day. Yup, a whole 50 percent less.
Additionally, my whole household has adopted the Brick to limit screen time. I work from home, so I have to exercise a little discipline when I don’t have in-person coworkers around. But even my wife, who teaches every day, Bricks their phone before heading to school every morning.
You can create different modes
Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable
Bricking your phone isn’t an all-or-nothing decision. The default setting allows you to block all apps — including your texts and video calls — making it essentially a dumb phone that only allows you to make standard phone calls. However, that’s not your only option. You can create different modes, hand-selecting which apps to allow or which to block.
I’ve created some modes that make my phone similar to a dumb phone — except I do allow for video calls and texts. However, other modes I’ve created just block the apps that are my biggest distractions: Instagram, TikTok, X, Pinterest, and even Chrome. I also have a light version of this, which helps me stay distraction-free during work but still allows me access to Chrome in case I need to look something up.
Be careful about what apps you select
My only word of caution regarding the Brick is to check which apps get blocked. If you select the option to block all apps, that can end up preventing you access to apps that you might actually need. One time, I Bricked my phone before heading to the gym, only to realize that it was blocking my gym’s app, which has my membership card. Another time, my Brick was blocking the Amazon app, which I needed to scan at Whole Foods to get extra savings.
Luckily, that’s where Brick’s emergency un-Bricking feature helps. Unfortunately, I’ve already used up two of the allotted five.
I wish it set app limits
Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable
One thing I do like about Apple’s built-in screen time is that you can set app limits. Unfortunately, you can’t set app limits with Brick. Instead, you just block all apps to try and cut back on your overall screen time. While I quickly adapted to Brick’s system, I occasionally missed the app limits that would give me a cue that it was time to ditch social media for the evening.
It’s a bit of an investment
Going from using a free screen time feature on my iPhone to paying $59 for The Brick is a little tough to stomach. That being said, it really works. It’s the only system that’s been able to effectively decrease my screen time. Plus, it’s a one-time price to pay.
Other popular screen time apps, like Opal, have free versions, but to access all features, you’ll need to pay $99.99 per year.
Is the Brick worth it?
The Brick is absolutely worth it. I’ve been raving about The Brick for months, ever since I started using it and recommending it to everyone I know. If you’ve been looking for a system to reduce your screen time and have found that built-in app limits aren’t enough, the Brick is my favorite option.
The physical limitation of the Brick adds an extra barrier, making it especially effective at preventing you from overriding your screen time and staying truly distraction-free.
Stephen Colbert gleefully mocks the All American alternative Super Bowl halftime show
If you didn’t want to watch Grammy winning, globally popular superstar Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl LX halftime show, then there’s news — you can apparently endure Kid Rock performing at an “All American” alternative halftime show instead.
Speaking on The Late Show in the clip above, Stephen Colbert has some thoughts about the lineup.
“As you may have noticed from the poster there, Kid’s not rocking this one alone. He’ll be joined by country singers Brantley Gilbert, Gabby Barrett, and Lee Brice — powerhouse lineup. Also appearing are Gary Lee Grant, Gilby Branlet, Dilly Barrett, Tandy Breitbart, Billy Gidly, and Baby Bilbo,” says Colbert, before quickly making a follow-up announcement. “I don’t want to disappoint anybody, but we’ve just learned that Billy Gidly cannot make it due to health reasons. But in tribute, Trilly Gillson and Brandy Degamble will be performing a Billy Gidly medley.”
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All your Tinder questions, answered
When you think of dating apps, you probably think about Tinder. Approximately 50 million people use the app each month, according to its website, and it’s been downloaded over 630 million times. So it makes sense if you’ve heard of it before — but you might still have questions about what Tinder is and how it works.
You’ve come to the right place. Scroll through for the answers to the top questions about Tinder.
What is Tinder?
Tinder is a dating app that launched in 2012. Once you make an account, you swipe right to “like” someone’s profile — trying to match — and swipe left to “skip” it. In 2026, the swipe model is everywhere on dating apps, but over a decade ago, it was pretty novel. Tinder has evolved over the years from a “hot or not” copy, though, installing safety checks, facial recognition, and robust bio features like adding what you’re looking for and personality traits.
Is Tinder free?
Yes, there is a free version of Tinder — but, like every dating app, there are paid versions that offer more features. For example, if you accidentally swipe left on someone and want to reverse the decision, you’ll have to pay Tinder to do so.
It’s free to match and message on Tinder, but free users have limited swipes per day. You also can’t see a list of who has liked you, nor can you go incognito or use the Passport feature to swipe in another location. For those features, you’ll have to pay for one of three Tinder subscriptions (Plus, Gold, or Platinum).
Here’s what every tier gets you:
Tinder Plus
-
Unlimited likes
-
Unlimited rewinds (reversing a left swipe)
-
Passport to any location
-
Hide ads
-
Incognito mode
Tinder Gold
All Plus features, and:
-
See who likes you first
-
“Top picks” every day, or curated matches
-
Weekly Super Likes (the potential match will know you liked them before they swipe_
-
One free Boost a month (this puts you at the top of profiles)
Tinder Platinum
All the aforementioned features, and:
-
Message before matching
-
Prioritized likes
-
See the likes you’ve sent in the last week
How to get unbanned from Tinder
How to get unbanned from a dating app is a question that users on social media have been asking for years because it’s so elusive. While we can’t guarantee you’ll get your account back, you can appeal the decision if you believe you were banned in error or unfairly. Go to Tinder’s Appeals Center, find the violation you want to appeal, and select it. Begin the appeal, and then submit it. You can appeal multiple violations if you wish.
According to Tinder’s Help Center article, you’ll then receive one of two outcomes to the appeal: approved, meaning the violation was reversed, or denied, meaning the violation was reinforced.
How to delete your Tinder account
Had enough of the dating app? You can delete your Tinder account by signing into the app or browser version, tapping your profile icon, going to Settings, scrolling to the bottom, and tapping Delete Account.
You can also use the Manage My Account tool. Sign in, tap Delete Account, and confirm.
How to cancel Tinder Gold
Mashable has a whole guide on how to cancel Tinder Gold or other paid Tinder subscriptions if you no longer want to pay for them.
How does Tinder work? How do you use Tinder?
Tinder users are presented a “stack” of profiles. It’s your job to swipe through them. If someone seems appealing, swipe right — you might match. You can only message people if you match (unless you have a Tinder Platinum subscription). If you’re not feeling the conversation or vibe, you can unmatch someone; they can unmatch you, too.
How to pause your Tinder account
While not called “pause,” you can hide your Tinder profile from other people. To do this, tap on your profile icon on the Tinder app or browser, go to Settings, scroll to Enable Discovery, and toggle it off.
You won’t be shown to new profiles, but people you already swiped right on will be able to see you, and you can still see and chat with existing matches.
Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones are under $40 right now at Amazon
SAVE OVER $30: As of Feb. 4, Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones have dropped to $39.98 at Amazon. This deal saves you $30.01 off the list price of $69.99.
Are you on the hunt for new headphones that don’t come with a hefty price tag? The Soundcore by Anker Q20i have a much more affordable price tag than higher-end models and yet still offer quality. This is especially true right now, as select models of the Q20i have dropped below $40 at Amazon.
Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones are on sale for $39.98 at Amazon. This is just over $30 off their list price of $69.99, and also incredibly close to their lowest-ever price of $37.99.
Whether you plan for the Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones to keep you company on your next flight or on a long commute into work, they feature Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling that helps to reduce up to 90% of noises around you. That certainly helps to keep chatty people or loud sounds from interrupting what you’re listening to. Pair that with high-quality sound from 40mm dynamic drivers and up to 40 hours of battery life when the noise-cancellation feature is on, and you’re all set for a solo listening party.
Keep in mind that both the black and white headphones are marked as limited-time deals right now, so act fast to grab these Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones on sale.
There’s plenty more budget-friendly headphones worth your time and money. If you’re curious what else is worth a look, check out our rundown of the best budget headphones for more recommendations.
The Daily Show unpacks Trumps comments about the midterms
Fears that Donald Trump may interfere with — or even cancel — the midterms are growing, and The Daily Show host Michael Kosta isn’t taking the comments lightly.
“Forgive me for being serious for a moment, but the president suggesting that he might cancel the midterms appears to be the inflection point toward a dictatorship that our nation cannot return,” he says. “This is serious.”
Cue footage from January of White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt responding to a reporter’s question about the comments by saying that Trump was “simply joking”.
“Oh hahahah, it’s a joke!” says Kosta. “Forget it, it was a joke! Phew, that is a relief, oh my God. I guess I was worried that it wasn’t a joke, because it’s a little unusual for a president to joke about cancelling an election. And also this particular president actually did try to overturn an election, so I guess I don’t get the joke?”
Kosta goes on to discuss Trump’s recent suggestion that Republicans should “take over the voting”, as well as the FBI’s recent raid of Georgia’s election office.
“I think it’s pretty clear that Trump is not joking about meddling in the election this year,” says Kosta. “And the only way we can prevent it is if everyone stands up to stop it. Especially Republican.”
That Fallout website countdown? Well, its not what we thought.
Three, two, one…it’s Fallout: New Vegas remastered a penthouse.
Prime Video‘s hit Fallout TV series generated buzz around the future of the Fallout video game series with a tantalising countdown on the Amazon show’s website. Promising a reveal to coincide with the Season 2 finale on Tuesday, the site had fans speculating about the arrival of a new Fallout game or a remaster of either Fallout 3 or Fallout: New Vegas.
Alas, it was neither, but was instead revealed to be a small Easter egg on the website’s map, which includes key Fallout locations featured in the show. This we saw coming — as Mashable’s Alex Perry wrote on Jan. 8, “If you scroll to the upper right corner of the map, there’s a mysterious countdown timer that ends on Feb. 4, the day that the final episode of Season 2 airs. Of course, everyone is wondering what will happen when that timer expires.”
Now, that part of the map includes antagonist Robert House’s penthouse atop his New Vegas casino Lucky 38. It’s a key location both in Fallout: New Vegas and the Fallout series’ second season.
Credit: Amazon / Mashable screenshot
Like the other locations on the map, you can click on the penthouse and explore some behind-the-scenes set photos and interviews with the production team of Fallout and star Justin Theroux, who plays Mr. House.
Credit: Amazon / Mashable screenshot
So, the only Fallout future buzz is that Amazon has already confirmed Season 3 of the series, Nintendo Switch 2 is getting the Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition sometime in 2026, Fallout 76 has a Valentine’s release, and Fallout 5 set for…yeah, that’s not going to happen for an age.
For now, enjoy the Fallout series game Easter eggs and bring me a bottle of Bobrov’s Best Moonshine.
The Pokémon TCG: Mega Charizard X ex Ultra Premium Collection is $80 off at Amazon
TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG Mega Charizard X ex Ultra-Premium Collection is down to $169.91 at Amazon. That’s $80 off its $249.99 list price.
Since launching during the Phantasmal Flames era of Pokémon TCG, the Mega Charizard X ex Ultra-Premium Collection has rarely dipped far below $200, but sellers on Amazon have been delivering some great discounts lately.
As of early February, the collection is listed for $169.91, representing a 32% discount on its standard $249.99 list price. While it has not reached market price just yet, it still massively undercuts TCGplayer when shipping costs are taken into account.
Inside, buyers get 18 booster packs spanning multiple modern sets (Phantasmal Flames, Mega Evolution, Destined Rivals, Journey Together, and Surging Sparks), along with two foil promo cards: Mega Charizard X ex and Oricorio ex. The box also includes a full suite of premium accessories, such as 65 themed card sleeves, a Mega Charizard X playmat, deck box, metal coin, six damage-counter dice, and a Pokémon TCG Live code card.
If you’re hoping to buy more Pokémon TCG product from Amazon, you can also get the Pokémon TCG: Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box for $15 off. You can also get the Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Booster Bundle at around $7 off.
Dont miss the Fitbit Sense 2 on sale for under $200 at Amazon — get $50 off for a limited time
SAVE $50: As of Feb. 4, every color of the Fitbit Sense 2 is discounted to $199.9 at Amazon. This is $50 off its list price of $249.95.
A fitness tracker is a worthy investment for those looking to see how they’re progressing with their fitness goals or trying to keep a close eye on aspects of their health. If you’ve been thinking about making a move into the world of fitness trackers and smartwatches, it’s always nice to pick one up on sale rather than pay full price. Thankfully, Amazon is offering some nice discounts at the moment, including on the Fitbit Sense 2.
As of Feb. 4, Amazon has dropped the price of the Fitbit Sense 2 to $199.95 from its list price of $249.95. This saves you a grand total of $50. Plus, every color is on sale right now. Choose between the shadow grey/graphite, lunar white/platinum, or blue mist/pale gold tracker, which are all at the same price.
This is a great tracker for those with workout goals, with features like all-day activity tracking, 24/7 heart rate tracking, over 40 exercise modes, and more. The Fitbit Sense 2 also has a variety of wellness features that are just as helpful. Some of these include all-day stress detection, irregular heart rhythm notifications, a sleep score, and mindfulness content to help you feel a bit healthier in every aspect of life.
These are some of the features that intrigued writer Lois Mackenzie, who wrote in a breakdown of the Fitbit Sense 2 that, “It prioritizes things like stress, sleep, and recovery just as much as steps and heart rate, which makes it stand out in a market that often focuses purely on smashing PRs.”
If it’s caught your attention, now is your chance to grab the Fitbit Sense 2 for $50 off at Amazon
The Apple Watch SE 3 has dropped below $220 at Amazon — save $30 right now
SAVE $30: As of Feb. 4, the Apple Watch SE 3 (GPS, 40mm) is on sale for $219 at Amazon. Normally it’s listed for $249, so this 12% discount saves you $30.
If you’re part of the Apple ecosystem and want one of the brand’s smartwatches, now is a great time to invest. The Apple Watch SE 3 — our pick for the best smartwatch for most people — has dropped down to $219 at Amazon.
Considering it’s usually listed for $249, this deal on the Apple Watch SE 3 saves you $30 in total. Not to mention, both the starlight and midnight smartwatches have dropped to this price, so you can pick whichever model suits you best.
For those who aren’t looking to drop a lot of money on a fancy, feature-dense smartwatch, the Apple Watch SE 3 covers the health and fitness basics. It includes plenty of different features, such as an activity tracker, heart rate monitor, temperature sensing, a daily sleep score, and sleep apnea notifications, alongside safety features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS. On top of that, it boasts a battery life of up to 18 hours.
As for why we consider it the best smartwatch for most people, Mashable’s Timothy Beck Werth notes in our roundup of the best smartwatches that “You get 98 percent of what you need from an Apple Watch or fitness tracker, and at a much better price.” So why not grab it when it’s even lower than usual?
Don’t miss out on the Apple Watch SE 3 (GPS, 40mm) down to $219 at Amazon. And if you’re hoping to get its more high-tech sibling, the Apple Watch Series 11 is also on sale right now at Amazon.
Markiplier confirms Iron Lung movies theatrical run extended
Popular YouTuber and filmmaker Markiplier confirmed his blood ocean submarining horror movie Iron Lung is getting an extended run after nearly taking the top spot at the weekend domestic box office.
In a stream late Monday night, Markiplier broke down Iron Lung‘s performance to his followers, which competed neck-and-neck with Sam Raimi’s castway horror Send Help before falling to second place for the weekend in the domestic box office.
At the end of the weekend, Send Help earned $19.1 million at the domestic box office while Iron Lung earned $17.8 million, according to Box Office Mojo.
The difference with Iron Lung is that it didn’t have a studio-backed marketing strategy. Instead, it was mostly Markiplier speaking directly to his fans and those curious about his independent project.
“Your audacity should be stopped,” Markiplier said. “Not by me, I’m not gonna stop you.”
Markiplier, whose real name is Mark Fischbach, was named to our Mashable 101 list in 2025 for building a massive audience as a gaming streamer whose fanbase have continuously supported his growing creative endeavors.
“This wouldn’t have happened without you guys,” Markiplier said. “It’s fundamentally astonishing.”
In addition to an extended theatrical run, Markiplier confirmed he is working out the details for home release, including DVD, Blu-ray, and digital.
“That is all being worked,” Markiplier said. “We’re still doing it independently from start to finish.”
Markiplier covered a lot of ground over the course of the video, describing the process of making and release Iron Lung as “another step to learn” as he looked to the future.
“Finally, I can feel like I can feel like I can have a foothold to start climbing again,” Markiplier said.
Grab this Pokémon TCG: Phantasmal Flames Booster Pack bundle for $23 off at Amazon
TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Phantasmal Flames Sleeved Booster Pack Lot is down to $66.96 at Amazon. That’s $23 shaved off its usual $89.99 list price.
at Amazon
$89.99
Save $23.03
Amazon has surprisingly dropped the price on one of the most sought-after Mega Evolution-era Pokémon TCG bundles, making now a great time to stock up if Phantasmal Flames is still on your hit list. As of Feb. 4, the Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Phantasmal Flames Sleeved Booster Pack Lot is down to $66.96 at Amazon, saving you $23 off its $89.99 list price.
This sealed lot includes eight sleeved Phantasmal Flames booster packs, each containing 10 cards, for a total of 80 trading cards pulled directly from the expansion. This bundle works out to just over $8.37 per pack. With individual Phantasmal Flames boosters on Amazon going for $9.87 right now, you’re saving $12 compared to buying eight separately.
Released as part of the Mega Evolution era, Phantasmal Flames features over 120 cards and introduces more Mega Evolution Pokémon ex, along with a lineup of Trainer cards and more than 15 Pokémon and Trainer cards with special illustrations. It’s an expansion of the Mega Evolution set that’s proven popular with collectors chasing flashy pulls, particularly those drawn to the darker, more vivid art style this collection is known for — like the Special Illustration Rare Mega Charizard X ex worth $644 or the golden Mega Hyper Rare version.
Amazon is also offering free delivery, with faster shipping available depending on your location. Given how quickly sealed Mega Evolution stock tends to dry up once prices dip, this is the kind of deal that may not stick around for long.
For more Pokémon TCG deals from this expansion, you can also get the Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box for $15 off at Amazon. Meanwhile, the Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Booster Bundle is still available for around $7 off.
Jimmy Kimmel responds to Trumps latest insult to a female journalist
Another day, another press conference in which the U.S. president insults a female reporter.
In the clip above, Jimmy Kimmel recaps a recent interaction in which Donald Trump told CNN news anchor and chief White House correspondent Kaitlan Collins “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you smile” after she asked him a question about the latest batch of Epstein files.
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“We are now at the ‘women should smile more’ stage of his presidency,” says Kimmel. “I’m trying to think of a worse time to tell a woman to smile more than when that person is a reporter asking about the Epstein victims — I can’t.”
Elsewhere, Kimmel also responds to U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche telling Fox News’ Laura Ingraham that “it is not a crime to party with Mr Epstein.”
“That’s right. It’s also not a crime to borrow a bottle of baby oil from Diddy,” says Kimmel. “They’re not crimes. Stop being such a buzzkill, everybody.”
The Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP1 is at its lowest-ever price at Amazon — save $160 right now
SAVE $160: As of Feb. 4, the Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP1 is on sale for $499.95 at Amazon. That’s a 24% discount on the list price.
If you’re a chronic allergy sufferer, an air purifier can make a noticeable difference around the home. It can help ease allergy symptoms, but also help cut down on pet hair and dust before they become an issue. It can also tackle cooking smells and generally improve how clean and fresh the air in your home feels.
The Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP1 is one of the best purifiers on the market, and it’s on sale right now. As of Feb. 4, this unit is down to its lowest-ever price, now just $499.95. That’s a saving of $160 on list price.
This Dyson purifier works by using a fully sealed filter system that combines a HEPA filter with an activated carbon layer to trap tiny particles, allergens, and pollutants, while also removing gases and everyday odors. The entire unit is sealed to HEPA H13 standards, so anything it captures stays inside the machine; nothing sneaks back out into the air.
And it also works as a fan and heater, circulating clean air throughout the room, perfect for cooling in summer and warming spaces in winter. You can even see how good (or bad) the air quality is through the MyDyson app.
Get this Dyson deal from Amazon now.
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for February 4, 2026
The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult to solve if you’re a sports fan.
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.
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.
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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.
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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.
Here’s a hint for today’s Connections categories
Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:
-
Yellow: A dispute
-
Green: Possibility
-
Blue: Estimated
-
Purple: Basketball clubs
Here are today’s Connections categories
Need a little extra help? Today’s connections fall into the following categories:
-
Yellow: Contention
-
Green: Games of chance
-
Blue: More or less, colloquially
-
Purple: Starting with NBA teams
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 #969 is…
What is the answer to Connections today
-
Contention: CONFLICT, DISCORD, FRICTION, RIVALRY
-
Games of chance: BINGO, CRAPS, LOTTERY, WAR
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More or less, colloquially: APPROX, BOUT, LIKE, ROUND
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Starting with NBA teams: BULLSEYE, HEATED, MAGICAL, NETSCAPE
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? Get all the Strands hints you need for today’s puzzle.
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 Strands hints, answers for February 4, 2026
Today’s NYT Strands hints are easy if you have a side passion.
Strands, the New York Times‘ elevated word-search game, 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.
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 preferred pace.
NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: For the enthusiast
The words are related to pasttimes
Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained
These words describe leisure activities.
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 Hobby Shop
NYT Strands word list for February 4
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Miniature
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Puzzle
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Model
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Hobby Shop
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Collectible
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Game
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.
Wordle today: Answer, hints for February 4, 2026
Today’s Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you’re used to being chastised.
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.
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.
Here’s a subtle hint for today’s Wordle answer:
To scold.
Does today’s Wordle answer have a double letter?
There are no recurring letters.
Today’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…
Today’s Wordle starts with the letter C.
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…
CHIDE
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.
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.
End of today’s Mashable roundup.
