Jimmy Kimmel gave an emotional monologue on his show to finish up a turbulent year, one in which late shows including his own have been targeted by Donald Trump and Kimmel and his colleagues suffered a tragic personal loss. Meanwhile, the major topic of the night for late night show hosts was the president's primetime address from the White House on Thursday, an 18-minute speech which Kimmel also unpacked."The president had limited time — his speech was interrupting the season finale of Survivor — so he went a mile a minute. He was shouting. He was racing through the script. It was 18 straight minutes of him yelling. It was like the whole country got to experience what it was like to be Eric in the eighth grade."During the speech, Trump repeated false claims which have been debunked, from his statement that "inflation has stopped, wages are up, prices are down," to his claim that he has "settled eight wars in 10 months.”"There were so many lies," said Kimmel. "11 fact checkers died watching that speech last night. He packed a lot of crap into 18 minutes."

Donald Trump gave a primetime address from the White House on Thursday night, blaming immigrants and Joe Biden for the current state of his U.S. economy and promising an 'economic boom" in 2026 (despite his decreasing approval ratings) among other things, all while surrounded by Christmas trees. And like Jimmy Kimmel and Seth Meyers, Stephen Colbert unpacked it all."Ladies and gentlemen, I believe that years from now, I think we'll all remember where we were when we did not watch Donald Trump's speech last night," said The Late Show host on Thursday. "Yesterday, Old Man Baloney Hands somehow convinced every network to preempt their primetime programming to air a presidential address from the White House...I'm not sure what the emergency was here, other than his poll numbers, because he just played the old hits."Colbert played a clip from Trump's speech in which he said: "This is what the Biden administration allowed to happen to our country, and it can never be allowed to happen again. We had men playing in women’s sports, transgender for everybody, crime at record levels with law enforcement and words such as that just absolutely forbidden.""Yes, words such as 'that' were forbidden," joked Colbert. "Under Biden, you couldn't say 'that.' You had to say you had to say 'this but over there.' But under Donald Trump, we're finally saying 'Merry Thatmas' again."

SAVE $400: As of Dec. 19, the ASUS ROG Swift 32-inch 4K OLED gaming monitor has dropped back to its lowest-ever price of $899 at Amazon. This is $400 off its list price of $1,299. Opens in a new window Credit: ASUS ASUS ROG Swift 32-Inch 4K OLED Gaming Monitor $899 at Amazon $1,299 Save $400   Get Deal If a gaming setup upgrade has been on your mind to kick off the new year, now is a great time to track down a new monitor with some nice deals floating around. Amazon has quite a few worth looking at, including the ASUS ROG Swift 32-inch 4K OLED gaming monitor back at its lowest-ever price.Usually the ASUS ROG Swift 32-inch 4K OLED gaming monitor is listed with a hefty price tag of $1,299, but for a limited time its price has dropped to $899. This saves you $400, and Amazon notes that it'll arrive before Christmas. If you're hoping to get it as a gift, you'll still have time to get it all wrapped up. SEE ALSO: The 71 absolute best stocking stuffers for 2025 This ASUS monitor is sure to make your games shine as you start playing what's to come in 2026 (and fingers crossed that's GTA 6). It boasts a 32-inch 4K QD-OLED display that makes images on screen pop with vibrant color and detail, alongside a 240 Hz refresh rate and 0.03 ms (GTG) response time so everything runs smoothly without any lag.It even comes with features that help lower the risk of burn-in on the screen, including a custom heatsink, advanced airflow design, and graphene film. If it ticks all the boxes of what you're looking for in a monitor, now is a great time to grab the ASUS ROG Swift 32-inch 4K OLED gaming monitor at Amazon while it's still on sale.If this was part of your last-minute Christmas shopping, and you're looking for more tech items to pick up, we gathered up the 65 best tech gifts of the year to help you narrow down your options ahead of the holidays.

Being slapped by Cher and being told directly to "snap out of it" is a recurring dream most of us will never experience IRL. But Ariana Grande and Bowen Yang now have the bragging rights.The Grammy-winning artist back hosting Saturday Night Live on Dec. 20, and in a teaser for the show, Cher had a special something for Grande and Yang."I got you both gifts!" says Cher."We got a gift from Cher? What is it?" asks Yang."My presence," Cher replies.Well, yeah.

Welcome to your guide to Pips, the latest game in the New York Times catalogue.Released in August 2025, the Pips puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.Currently, if you're stuck, the game only offers to reveal the entire puzzle, forcing you to move onto the next difficulty level and start over. However, we have you covered! Below are piecemeal answers that will serve as hints so that you can find your way through each difficulty level.How to play PipsIf you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity for how Pips is played. As we've shared in our previous hints stories for Pips, the tiles, like dominoes, are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. The main difference between a traditional game of dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match. SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 19, 2025 The conditions you have to meet are specific to the color-coded spaces. For example, if it provides a single number, every side of a tile in that space must add up to the number provided. It is possible – and common – for only half a tile to be within a color-coded space.Here are common examples you'll run into across the difficulty levels:Number: All the pips in this space must add up to the number.Equal: Every domino half in this space must be the same number of pips.Not Equal: Every domino half in this space must have a completely different number of pips.Less than: Every domino half in this space must add up to less than the number.Greater than: Every domino half in this space must add up to more than the number.If an area does not have any color coding, it means there are no conditions on the portions of dominoes within those spaces. SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for December 19, 2025 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Dec. 19 PipsNumber (5): Everything in this space must add up to 5. The answer is 5-3, placed vertically.Number (0): Everything in this space must add up to 0. The answer is 0-6, placed vertically.Equal (3): Everything in this space must be equal to 3. The answer is 5-3, placed vertically; 3-0, placed horizontally.Less Than (5): Everything in this light blue space must be less than 5. The answer is 6-4, placed horizontally.Number (12): Everything in this space must add up to 12. The answer is 6-6, placed vertically.Medium difficulty hints, answers for Dec. 19 PipsEqual (1): Everything in this space must be equal to 1. The answer is 1-1, placed horizontally.Number (5): Everything in this space must add up to 5. The answer is 5-0, placed vertically.Equal (0): Everything in this space must be equal to 0. The answer is 1-0, placed horizontally; 5-0, placed vertically; 0-0, placed horizontally.Number (3): Everything in this space must add up to 3. The answer is 3-4, placed vertically.Equal (4): Everything in this space must be equal to 4. The answer is 4-4, placed vertically.Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 6-5, placed horizontally; 3-4, placed vertically.Hard difficulty hints, answers for Dec. 19 PipsNumber (3): Everything in this space must add up to 3. The answer is 6-2, placed vertically; 1-4, placed horizontally.Number (4): Everything in this space must add up to 4. The answer is 1-4, placed horizontally.Number (6): Everything in this space must add up to 6. The answer is 5-6, placed horizontally.Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 3-3, placed vertically; 3-2, placed horizontally.Number (6): Everything in this dark blue space must add up to 6. The answer is 3-2, placed horizontally; 2-2, placed vertically.Number (7): Everything in this space must add up to 7. The answer is 3-6, placed horizontally; 4-5, placed vertically.Number (10): Everything in this space must add up to 10. The answer is 5-5, placed vertically.Number (9): Everything in this space must add up to 9. The answer is 4-5, placed vertically; 4-0, placed vertically.Number (2): Everything in this space must add up to 2. The answer is 3-1, placed horizontally; 1-1, placed horizontally.Number (1): Everything in this space must add up to 1. The answer is 1-1, placed horizontally; 4-0, placed vertically.If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Pluribus episode 8 sees a tentative reunion between Carol (Rhea Seehorn) and the Others, with our protagonist juggling her desire for semi-human contact with her urge to set the world back to the way it was.Having the Others back does allow her to get some more information about them, though, as she wastes no time in asking Zosia (Karolina Wydra) as many questions as possible while they're hanging out.So what exactly does she learn, and what could it mean? SEE ALSO: Rhea Seehorn reacts to that big 'Pluribus' kiss: 'There is some willful delusion' What does Carol learn about the Others?All the new information Zosia lets slip to Carol is handily summed up on her "What I Know About Them" whiteboard list, which she adds a bunch of different things to this episode. Here's the second part of the list, in full:They. Eat. People.Communal sleeping/cuddle puddle/body heatCommunicate via body's electric charge??Trains to transport food (ugh)Individuals feel, everyone knowsSignal from Kepler-22b (640 lightyears from Earth)Building GIANT ANTENNA!!! Using up all power in world to send signal to space!The last point follows on from a conversation she has with Zosia while she's using a telescope to look at the planet – Kepler-22b – responsible for beaming out the signal that contained the virus."We'll probably never learn the first thing about them," Zosia says. "They're too far away. But we know we love them and we're grateful to them. And we'll pay it forward, however long that may take."When Carol asks what that means, Zosia's response sheds light on what the Others are planning: "We have to share their gift with whoever else might be out there." What does it mean?We already know that the Others' main reason for existing seems to be to widen their supposedly utopian net, joining other beings to their own singular consciousness. The construction of a giant antenna to send the same signal that Earth received therefore isn't too big of a surprise — but it does raise some other interesting questions.For instance, where does the virus itself really originate from? Is it possible that the occupants of Kepler-22b didn't create it, but were simply passing it along after being infected by it in the same way that the Others on Earth are now planning to do?Also, what was the real motivate of the species that created the virus? Was it actually to instil happiness on as many beings as possible and make the universe a better place? Or was the thing created as a weapon intended to weaken other planets and make them vulnerable to potential invasion?Pluribus is now streaming on Apple TV+ with new episodes Friday.

Today's Connections: Sports Edition will be easier if you like golf.As we've shared in previous hints stories, this is a 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. 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: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. Here's a hint for today's Connections: Sports Edition categoriesWant a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:Yellow: Baseball teamsGreen: Pugilistic cinemaBlue: Same teamPurple: LegendsHere are today's Connections: Sports Edition categoriesNeed a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:Yellow: An NL West playerGreen: Boxing moviesBlue: Vikings career passing leadersPurple: Nicknames of 1990s NBA All-StarsLooking 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 #452 is...What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?An NL West player - DODGER, GIANT, PADRE, ROCKIEBoxing movies - CINDERELLA MAN, MILLION DOLLAR BABY, THE FIGHTER, THE HURRICANEVikings career passing leaders - COUSINS, CULPEPPER, KRAMER, TARKENTONNicknames of 1990s NBA All-Stars - GRANDMAMA, PENNY, SIR CHARLES, THE DREAMDon't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new sports 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.

TL;DR: Live stream Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.There's a long list of NBA games taking place over the festive weeks, including Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Oklahoma City Thunder. This intriguing contest sees the defending champions going up against Anthony Edwards. Can he head his team to a surprise win at home?If you want to watch Knicks vs. 76ers in the NBA for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.When is Knicks vs. 76ers?Knicks vs. 76ers in the NBA starts at 9:30 p.m. ET on Dec. 19. This game takes place at Target Center.How to watch Knicks vs. 76ers for freeKnicks vs. 76ers in the NBA is available to live stream for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.This free live stream is geo-restricted to the U.S. and UK, but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S. or UK, meaning you can access free live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.Stream the NBA for free by following these simple steps:Sign up for a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime (if you're not already a member)Subscribe to a VPN (like ExpressVPN)Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S. or UKWatch the NBA from anywhere in the world on Prime Video Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Learn More The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer money-back guarantees or free trials. By leveraging these offers, you can watch NBA live streams without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch select games from the NBA before recovering your investment.What is the best VPN for the NBA?ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing free live streams on platforms like Prime Video, for a number of reasons:Servers in 105 countriesEasy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and moreStrict no-logging policy so your data is secureFast connection speeds free from throttlingUp to eight simultaneous connections30-day money-back guaranteeA 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. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).Live stream the NBA for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Live stream New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime. Access this free live stream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.There are plenty of fascinating NBA games to keep fans entertained over the festive period, including New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers. The Knicks are fresh from winning the NBA Cup. Can they carry on that form and start to dominate the East? The 76ers will be a stern test.If you want to watch Knicks vs. 76ers in the NBA for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.When is Knicks vs. 76ers?Knicks vs. 76ers in the NBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Dec. 19. This game takes place at Madison Square Garden.How to watch Knicks vs. 76ers for freeKnicks vs. 76ers in the NBA is available to live stream for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.This free live stream is geo-restricted to the U.S. and UK, but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S. or UK, meaning you can access free live streams of the NBA from anywhere in the world.Stream the NBA for free by following these simple steps:Sign up for a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime (if you're not already a member)Subscribe to a VPN (like ExpressVPN)Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S. or UKWatch the NBA from anywhere in the world on Prime Video Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Learn More The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer money-back guarantees or free trials. By leveraging these offers, you can watch NBA live streams without actually spending anything. This clearly isn't a long-term solution, but it does mean you can watch select games from the NBA before recovering your investment.What is the best VPN for the NBA?ExpressVPN is the best service for accessing free live streams on platforms like Prime Video, for a number of reasons:Servers in 105 countriesEasy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and moreStrict no-logging policy so your data is secureFast connection speeds free from throttlingUp to eight simultaneous connections30-day money-back guaranteeA 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. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).Live stream the NBA for free with ExpressVPN.

Astronomers have found a strange world outside the solar system that is ripe for science fiction — but it's all real. The exoplanet, dubbed PSR J2322-2650 b, has a helium-and-carbon atmosphere, something researchers say they've never seen before. The air could be full of soot clouds, and deep inside, carbon could even clump together into solid crystals, possibly forming diamonds.This all takes place on a lemon-shaped planet that is orbiting a pulsar, a special type of neutron star that spins and strobes like a lighthouse in space. NASA's James Webb Space Telescope made the observations."Our collective reaction was 'What the heck is this?'" said Peter Gao, a coauthor on the new research based at Carnegie Earth and Planets Laboratory, in a statement. "It's extremely different from what we expected."A giant planet as heavy as Jupiter with a carbon-heavy atmosphere, orbiting a dead star, does not fit any known planet model, challenging long-standing ideas about how worlds form and survive. The findings, published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, suggest that planetary systems can exist under far more extreme conditions than scientists thought.  SEE ALSO: Scientists suspect this scorched alien planet with a sunlike star has air The new research revealed that powerful gravity from its nearby star, which lies about 750 light-years away from Earth, stretches and squeezes the planet into a lemon shape. The planet orbits a pulsar, the crushed core left behind after a massive star explodes. This star, PSR J2322-2650, packs roughly the mass of the sun into a space of a city. As it rapidly spins, it sends out steady beams of energy.  "The planet orbits a star that's completely bizarre," said the University of Chicago’s Michael Zhang, the principal investigator on this study, in a statement.The planet circles this pulsar at a distance of only about 1 million miles. For comparison, Earth sits close to 100 million miles from the sun. Because that orbit is so tight, a full year on PSR J2322-2650 b lasts less than eight hours. When Webb looked at the planet’s atmosphere, scientists expected to see common gases, such as water vapor or methane. Instead, they found helium and simple forms of carbon. This kind of carbon should not exist by itself at such high temperatures, the researchers say, unless almost all oxygen and nitrogen are missing. No other known planet shows this pattern.Temperatures on the planet range from about 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit on the cooler side to about 3,700 degrees on the hotter side.  In a binary system 750 light-years away, a pulsar may be stripping material off its exoplanet companion. Credit: NASA / ESA / CSA / Ralf Crawford illustration The binary system also resembles a rare setup referred to as "a black widow," where a pulsar slowly strips material from a nearby companion. The difference here is that the companion is a planet — not another star.No known process explains how such a carbon-heavy planet could form. "But it's nice to not know everything," said coauthor Roger Romani of Stanford University in a statement. "I'm looking forward to learning more about the weirdness of this atmosphere. It's great to have a puzzle to go after."

As far as console games go, 2025 was Nintendo's year. While Xbox and PlayStation were five years into their respective console generations, each releasing a handful of noteworthy (but not extraordinary) first-party releases, most eyes in the industry were on their oldest rival company as it geared up to launch the Switch 2 in June. Prior to launch, the biggest story about the Switch 2 had nothing to do with hardware or games. It was the Trump administration's tariffs threatening console gamers' good times. In the end, Nintendo dodged a bullet, and the console came out on time at the expected $450 price point.Now that the Switch 2 has been in our hands (or underneath our TVs) for six months, it's a good time to evaluate whether this console lives up to the hype. So here it is, the Nintendo Switch 2's first (half) year in review. SEE ALSO: 'Metroid Prime 4: Beyond' is the 'Metroid' you want 90 percent of the time The Switch 2 hardware checks most boxes I like the hardare, overall. Credit: Joe Maldonado/Mashable Games don't matter if the console itself sucks. Thankfully, with the Switch 2, that isn't the case. This is one of the best pieces of hardware Nintendo has produced in its long history.The Switch offered important upgrades over the original. Users got a generous boost in speed and power, of course, but also the handheld unit's larger size makes it more comfortable for adult-sized hands like mine. Some users have expressed discontent with the way the Switch 2 feels to hold for long sessions, but that hasn't been my experience. The new dock has a built-in Ethernet port — also a huge plus for anyone who prefers to wire up when playing games online. You should try it if you can.The new Joy-Con controllers benefit from the general increase in size, though I still don't particularly like using them while the console is docked. It's disappointing that Nintendo didn't take this opportunity to put a real D-pad on the left Joy-Con; I get why they went with buttons instead, as it offers parity for local multiplayer games. Still, the lack of a D-pad makes twitchy 2D side-scrollers more cumbersome to play in handheld mode.The new Pro Controller is excellent to use, but barely improved over the old model. Nintendo didn't reinvent the wheel here, and that's fine. Repairability critics at sites like iFixit have big problems with the Pro Controller 2 because it's not as easy to self-repair as it should be, so keep that in mind when shopping for controllers. There are plenty of good third-party options out there, too.As for everyday performance, the Switch 2 is a massive step up from the first model. Menu elements like the eShop run significantly faster than they did before, and the console's faster storage standards mean games load much quicker, too. The biggest disappointment: the handheld unit's display. On paper, a 1080p/120Hz display with HDR support sounded great; in practice, games tend to look a little washed out, and the advertised HDR features can be described as "fake."New features are mixed GameChat is good, though I haven't used it much since launch. Credit: Nintendo The enhanced hardware also facilitated some new non-game software features that, frankly, I can take or leave after six months.Mouse support on the Joy-Cons, for instance, has yet to really wow me in any game. It's neat that you can play first-person shooters or what have you with them, but since I almost never play games with ready access to a flat surface within arm's reach, I've gotten next to no organic use out of the mouse controls. Like a lot of people, I keep waiting for whatever is next for Mario Maker to truly provide a great use case for this stuff.Webcam support, similarly, is neat but ultimately frivolous. I like that games such as Super Mario Party Jamboree have webcam-specific mini-games, while other titles will show other players your face while you play against them, but it's also easy to forget this console even supports webcams. As with the mouse controls, I keep waiting for Nintendo to give us an ironclad excuse to use a webcam — but that hasn't happened yet.Perhaps the best new feature is GameChat, Nintendo's first earnest attempt at cross-game voice chat at the console level. It's exceptionally easy to set up and the microphone on the console itself is shockingly good at blocking out unwanted noises for other users in the same session as you. Still, there's no game that counts as a killer app for this feature. Perhaps 2026 will bring us the first real GameChat-necessary banger for Switch 2.The games ranged from OK to great I like 'Bananza' a lot. Credit: Nintendo The Switch 2's launch-window lineup is ... fine. There's been a lot of noise online about how the lineup sucks, but critics tend to suffer from a limited sense of history. Yes, it's true that the first Switch launched with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild — but that was a confluence of historical circumstances and desperation on Nintendo's part that has rarely happened before, and might never happen again. On the whole, console launch lineups tend to be mediocre, and the Switch 2's offerings easily clears this low bar. For instance, Mario Kart World is a great time, even if it's not a huge 100-hour open-world masterpiece. Donkey Kong Bananza, released a month after launch, is an excellent 3-D platformer with a lot of heart and a unique destruction-based hook. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond met with a divisive reception, to say the least, but I dug it alongside Pokémon Legends: Z-A: two games that also came out on Switch 1 but are better on Switch 2.Of course, there were some duds or semi-duds. Drag x Drive, the mouse-based multiplayer wheelchair basketball game, came and went without much fanfare. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment was a big disappointment due to an overly simplistic structure, a boring narrative, and a distinct lack of electric guitar. I also did not care for Kirby Air Riders and its brand of paper-thin nonsense very much at all, though many users will disagree.Compare all of that to the PlayStation 5, whose best launch title was a remake of Demon's Souls, or the Xbox Series X, which literally didn't have a standout launch game. The Switch 2 lineup looks pretty good by comparison.It's a backwards compatibility powerhouse You should really check out 'Bakeru.' Credit: Good-Feel/Spike Chunsoft The Switch 2's most underrated aspect may be its ability to make Switch 1 games look a lot better than they did on the previous console — even without paying extra for the pleasure. Paid upgrades for old games like Breath of the Wild or its sequel Tears of the Kingdom are great, but the more unexpected development is how many games run better on Switch 2 for free. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, for one, is a night-and-day difference. On the new console it has buttery smooth performance that the OG Switch didn't provide. A free patch for Splatoon 3 also made that game look noticeably better, as was the case for Super Mario Odyssey. My favorites are the ones that didn't even get Switch 2 patches, but run better anyway. There's a really cool 3-D platformer called Bakeru that was nigh-unplayable on Switch 1, but runs fantastically on Switch 2. I wouldn't have even known about it if not for word-of-mouth on how much the new console improves it.After six months, I'm fairly happy with where the Nintendo Switch 2 is. It's a bummer knowing that the next major entries in the Mario and Zelda franchises are likely years away, but hopefully Nintendo can keep releasing other interesting first-party games at a steady enough clip to keep us satisfied in the meantime. The important part is that the hardware is mostly very good and the games, so far, have been more good than bad. Here's to feeling even better about the console at the end of 2026.

Want to watch college football this season? Here are your best options: BEST FOR ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year (save $15) Shop Now Best for Fox and Big Ten Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year (save $39.89) Shop Now BEST FOR SINGLE GAME FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month (save $30) Get Deal Best for channels Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now Best for affordability Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months (save $50.95) Shop Now BEST for INTRODUCTORY OFFER YouTube TV 5-day free trial, then $49.99/month for 3 months (save $99) Shop Now The college football postseason is here. That's right, it's playoffs time, with first-round action that pits the Oklahoma Sooners against Alabama Crimson Tide. Going into the game, which will played on Oklahoma's home turf, things look pretty even. Both teams have an overall season record of 10-2 and they're ranked right next to each other, at No. 8 and No. 9 respectively. To give some indication of how it might play out, Oklahoma edged a victory — a narrow 21-23 scoreline — when the programs met in the SEC last month, part of the Sooners' current four match winning streak. And Alabama are coming off a decisive loss to Georgia. But does that just mean the Crimson Tide are due to bounce back? College football experts would say Alabama have got the better game overall and their loss to Oklahoma was a surprise result. Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up! Kicking off the CBF before a stacked night of three games on Saturday, Oklahoma vs. Alabama is one not to miss. The good news is you can watch it for free online. If you want to watch Oklahoma vs. Alabama for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.When is Oklahoma vs. Alabama?Oklahoma vs. Alabama takes place at 8 p.m. ET on Dec. 19. This game takes place at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.Oklahoma vs. Alabama vs. Memphis State is broadcast on ABC and ESPN.How to watch college football in 2025/26Fans can live stream college football on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year Shop Now Channels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNXESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $29.99 per month, but for the first year, new subscribers can secure a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu for the same price.Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year Shop Now Channels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten NetworkFox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $40 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a seven-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CWFuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and provides the opportunity to watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters for seven days before you make any sort of commitment. Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CWHulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $76.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). The included access to ESPN+ provides bonus access to even more college football games on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC NetworkSling is a comprehensive sporting service that offers a whole host of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue packages give you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, and more in local markets, but for access to ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more, you'll need the Sports Extra package. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CWYouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.How to watch Oklahoma vs. Alabama from anywhere in the worldIf you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.Live stream Oklahoma vs. Alabama from anywhere in the world by following these simple steps:Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S.Sign in to your favorite streaming serviceWatch Oklahoma vs. Alabama from anywhere in the worldExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and moreStrict no-logging policy so your data is secureFast connection speeds free from throttlingUp to eight simultaneous connections30-day money-back guaranteeA one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan 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 $12.95 (with money-back guarantee). Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

Want to watch college football this season? Here are your best options: BEST FOR ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year (save $15) Shop Now Best for Fox and Big Ten Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year (save $39.89) Shop Now BEST FOR SINGLE GAME FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month (save $30) Get Deal Best for channels Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now Best for affordability Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months (save $50.95) Shop Now BEST for INTRODUCTORY OFFER YouTube TV 5-day free trial, then $49.99/month for 3 months (save $99) Shop Now There's more exciting college football action this week as the postseason rolls on. Next up is the NC State Wolfpack vs. Memphis Tigers in the Gasparilla Bowl, a regular fixture in bowl season since 2008.NC State have entered nine bowl games in the last 10 years but they haven't walked away as winners since 2017. It's been a different story for Memphis — they're on a four game winning streak in bowl games. It feels like it's the Wolfpack's turn to bring a bowl home, though the edge is with Memphis, who have the winningest season so far with 8-4 vs. 7-5. Whatever happens, this bowl game has the makings of a closely-contested battle. Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up! If you want to watch NC State vs. Memphis for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.When is NC State vs. Memphis?NC State vs. Memphis takes place at 2.30 p.m. ET on Dec. 19. This game takes place at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.NC State vs. Memphis State is broadcast on ESPN.How to watch college football in 2025/26Fans can live stream college football on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year Shop Now Channels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNXESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $29.99 per month, but for the first year, new subscribers can secure a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu for the same price.Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year Shop Now Channels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten NetworkFox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $40 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a seven-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CWFuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and provides the opportunity to watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters for seven days before you make any sort of commitment. Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CWHulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $76.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). The included access to ESPN+ provides bonus access to even more college football games on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC NetworkSling is a comprehensive sporting service that offers a whole host of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue packages give you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, and more in local markets, but for access to ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more, you'll need the Sports Extra package. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CWYouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.How to watch NC State vs. Memphis from anywhere in the worldIf you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.Live stream NC State vs. Memphis from anywhere in the world by following these simple steps:Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S.Sign in to your favorite streaming serviceWatch NC State vs. Memphis from anywhere in the worldExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and moreStrict no-logging policy so your data is secureFast connection speeds free from throttlingUp to eight simultaneous connections30-day money-back guaranteeA one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan 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 $12.95 (with money-back guarantee). Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

Want to watch college football this season? Here are your best options: BEST FOR ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year (save $15) Shop Now Best for Fox and Big Ten Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year (save $39.89) Shop Now BEST FOR SINGLE GAME FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month (save $30) Get Deal Best for channels Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now Best for affordability Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months (save $50.95) Shop Now BEST for INTRODUCTORY OFFER YouTube TV 5-day free trial, then $49.99/month for 3 months (save $99) Shop Now The Myrtle Beach Bowl is a relatively recent addition to the college football postseason, first established in 2020. But it's no less prestigious to either the Western Michigan Broncos or Kennesaw State Owls. The Broncos have won just two bowl games in their history, the last coming in 2021, while the Owls have never competed in a bowl game until now.It should be a tough contest. Both teams are their respective conference champion, with Western Michigan winning MAC with 9-4 and Kennesaw State winning Conference USA with 10-3. It's fair to say both programs are on a hot streak and will give it everything they've got in this bowl showdown. Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up! If you want to watch Western Michigan vs. Kennesaw State for free from anywhere in the world, here's all the information you need.When is Western Michigan vs. Kennesaw State?Western Michigan vs. Kennesaw State takes place at 11 a.m. ET on Dec. 19. This game takes place at Brooks Stadium in Conway, South Carolina.Western Michigan vs. Kennesaw State is broadcast on ESPN.How to watch college football in 2025/26Fans can live stream college football on a wide range of recommended services, some of which include free trials so you can follow the action without actually spending anything.ESPN Unlimited (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: ESPN ESPN Unlimited $29.99 per month for 1 year Shop Now Channels: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNXESPN Unlimited provides access to everything that ESPN has to offer. For college football, you get live access to games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN+, SEC Network, SECN+, ACC Network, and ABC. The Unlimited plan will set you back $29.99 per month, but for the first year, new subscribers can secure a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu for the same price.Fox One (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One 7-day free trial, then $199.99 per year Shop Now Channels: Fox, FS1, FS2, Big Ten NetworkFox One provides access to live broadcasts on Fox, Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, and Big Ten Network. It costs $19.99 per month, but you can save $40 by opting for the annual plan at $199.99. You can also start with a seven-day free trial, so you've got the chance to watch select games without spending anything.FuboTV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: FuboTV FuboTV 7-day free trial, then $54.99/month for 1 month Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, Marquee Sports Network, Monumental Sports, NBC, NBCSN, Pac-12 Network, SEC Network, and The CWFuboTV offers you more than 250 channels of live TV and provides the opportunity to watch on 10 screens at once, if that's your thing. You can try FuboTV with a seven-day free trial period. Fubo takes sports seriously, and that's something we appreciate. With the Pro subscription, you get access to most college football broadcasts. But hardcore fans may want to consider upgrading to the Elite plan, which unlocks access to ESPNU, SEC Network, Pac-12 Network, and ACC Network. Either way, we suggest you test the waters for seven days before you make any sort of commitment. Hulu + Live TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu + Live TV 3-day free trial, then $76.99/month Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, and The CWHulu + Live TV is not exactly cheap, but it does offer good bang for your buck. You need to cough up $76.99 per month (after a three-day trial), but you get access to over 95 live TV channels, plus Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ (all with ads). The included access to ESPN+ provides bonus access to even more college football games on top of live TV networks like ABC, FOX, ESPN, The CW, ACC Network, and more. Now that's value.Sling (no free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Season Pass $329 for 5 months Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNews, ESPN U, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, Pac-12 Network, SEC NetworkSling is a comprehensive sporting service that offers a whole host of benefits, but you do need to be careful when selecting a plan. The Orange and Blue packages give you access to FOX, NBC, ABC, ESPN, and more in local markets, but for access to ACC Network, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and more, you'll need the Sports Extra package. We recommend checking your local market to ensure you get access to the channels you actually need.YouTube TV (free trial) Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 7-day free trial, then $49.99/month for your first 3 months Shop Now Channels: ABC, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, CBS, CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNews, Fox, FS1, FS2, NBC, NBCSN, SEC Network, and The CWYouTube TV provides access to over 100 live channels. Newsflash: that's a lot. This huge list includes most of the channels you actually need to watch live college football, including NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, plus networks like FS1 and SEC Network. YouTube TV also offers that all-important free trial so you can watch select games without spending anything.How to watch Western Michigan vs. Kennesaw State from anywhere in the worldIf you're abroad for this fixture, you might need to use a VPN to unblock your favorite streaming service. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the U.S., meaning you can unblock live streams of college football from anywhere in the world.Live stream Western Michigan vs. Kennesaw State from anywhere in the world by following these simple steps:Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)Open up the app and connect to a server in the U.S.Sign in to your favorite streaming serviceWatch Western Michigan vs. Kennesaw State from anywhere in the worldExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:Servers in 105 countries including the U.S.Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and moreStrict no-logging policy so your data is secureFast connection speeds free from throttlingUp to eight simultaneous connections30-day money-back guaranteeA one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan 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 $12.95 (with money-back guarantee). Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

TL;DR: The All-in-One Super-Sized Ethical Hacking Bundle safely teaches you how the hackers do it, and right now it’s just $39.97 (reg. $1,098) through Dec. 21. Opens in a new window Credit: StackSocial The All-in-One Super-Sized Ethical Hacking Bundle $39.97 $1,098 Save $1,058.03   Get Deal Ever wondered how a hacker does it? If you’ve ever been curious and wanted to try your hand at hacking, the All-in-One Super-Sized Ethical Hacking Bundle can help.This course bundle includes 18 info-packed courses ready to turn you into an ethical hacker, and right now they’re all yours for just $39.97 (reg. $1,098) — less than $3 each — through Dec. 21. Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up! Want to get inside the brain of a hacker? There is now an online course bundle geared toward showing you how they work. These skills are important for those hoping to get into the cybersecurity field, or for those who are simply curious about the process.Learn the ins and outs of hacking with these 18 courses packed with over 130 hours of instruction. They include hands-on labs and are great even for total beginners with no cybersecurity background.Start with a course like Complete Python 3 Ethical Hacking Course: Zero to Mastery. Aleksa Tamburkovski, a penetration tester with over five years’ experience, teaches this eight hour course, where you learn to exploit Windows machines and build an email scraper, among other things. Then learn from Android app developer Amit Huddar as he teaches the Ethical Hacker Certification Course, a seven hour course that shows you how to hack Windows, Linux, Android, and other operating systems.Once you’ve learned a thing or two about hacking, you can move on to more advanced classes like Hacking Wireless Networks: Theory and Practice. This course, taught by IT Security Academy, and shows you how to prepare your own training environment to practice ethical hacking.Get the All-in-One Super-Sized Ethical Hacking Bundle for just $39.97 (reg. $1,098) — less than $3 each — through Dec. 21.StackSocial prices subject to change.

SAVE $100: As of Dec. 19, select colors of the Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) have dropped back to their lowest-ever price of $299 at Amazon. This is a 25% discount that saves you $100. Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch Series 11 $299 at Amazon $399 Save $100   Get Deal The Apple Watch Series 11 is a smartwatch we consider to be the best Apple upgrade right now. If you've been looking to grab one ahead of the holidays, Amazon has a special seasonal surprise. Select colors of the Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) have returned to their lowest-ever price of $299 at the retailer.This is a 25% discount that saves you $100 overall. This deal only applies to a couple of different color options, so you can save on the silver aluminum case with a purple fog sport band or the rose gold aluminum case with a light blush sport band. Whichever option you choose will arrive before Christmas, which is good news for last-minute shoppers. SEE ALSO: The 65 best tech gifts of the year, hand-picked by professional gadget nerds As mentioned earlier, the Apple Watch Series 11 is one of our top smartwatches of 2025, earning a spot in the roundup as the best Apple upgrade. Our review from Mashable's Stan Schroeder said it, "isn't all that different from last year's model, but it has a significantly longer battery life, and that's a huge deal." Mashable Deals Be the first to know! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Get editor selected deals texted right to your phone! Loading... Sign Me Up By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Thanks for signing up! According to Schroeder, "After nearly a full week of use, I can say that the Apple Watch Series 11 is easily a one-and-a-half-day smartwatch now, and it's possible to extend that to a full weekend if you carefully use Low Power mode." Alongside a hefty battery to keep you going, this smartwatch also boasts a variety of health and fitness features, including hypertension notifications and a Sleep Score.Now is a great time to grab the Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 42mm) as a gift ahead of the holidays, so act fast to save. Alternatively, if you're looking for other gift ideas, check out our roundup of the 60+ best Christmas gifts for 2025.

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered. SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: How to play Pips, the newest NYT game Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Friday, Dec. 19, 2025:AcrossMelted marshmallow, e.g.The answer is Goo.Misleading poker betThe answer is Bluff.New Hampshire's is "Live Free or Die"The answer is Motto.Something stored in the cloud?The answer is Water.Shade akin to khakiThe answer is Tan.DownExhibit poor sportsmanship, in a wayThe answer is Gloat"Get ___ town!"The answer is Outta.Much of the timeThe answer is Often.High-end German automakerThe answer is BMW.The "F" of FWIWThe answer is For.If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

Pluribus fans, it's official: Just as the Winds of Wycaro's duneship Mercator glides over Wycaro's slipsand, so too has the Carol (Rhea Seehorn) and Zosia (Karolina Wydra) ship set sail. SEE ALSO: Apple TV announces a huge 'Pluribus' milestone in the most 'Pluribus' way In episode 8, titled "Charm Offensive," Carol shares a passionate kiss with Zosia. Technically, this means she's also kissing the other 7 billion members of the Pluribus hive mind. If that makes your head hurt, same! But that's the point. Even though the kiss is full of desperate desire, it also comes with a lot of baggage for Carol."I think it's super, super complex," Seehorn told Mashable about Carol's mindset during the kiss. "There is some willful delusion. There are some coping mechanisms going on. She's so fragile."While shooting the scene, episode director Melissa Bernstein and Pluribus showrunner Vince Gilligan reminded Seehorn of the impact the Others' departure from Albuquerque had on her. From episodes 5 through 7, she was almost completely alone, save for some wild coyotes and a brief chat about cannibalism with Mr. Diabaté (Samba Schutte)."She was really broken by this isolation period that she went through, and not just because of how long she was alone, but [because of] the horrible existential crisis of thinking, 'This will be forever. This will be the rest of your life,'" Seehorn explained. SEE ALSO: The 10 best TV shows of 2025, and where to stream them now When confronted with the reality of nonstop isolation, of course the Others and their relentless need to make Carol happy would seem like a soothing balm. That need is on full display in "Charm Offensive," which sees Carol and Zosia playing croquet, getting a couple's massage, and going on a hike together, where they observe a passing train. When Carol reveals she loves the sound of train horns, Zosia uses the hive mind to tell the train conductor to honk the horn at that very moment. If you forget the alien virus of it all, you'd think it was a romantic gesture! The same goes for the Others' reconstruction of Carol's favorite diner, which allows her to relive her best day as a writer.But even with all the Others' courtship, make no mistake: Carol is still aware that the Others are pulling her strings, even if it's coming from a place of care. (Lest we forget, they chose Zosia as Carol's "chaperone" because her physical similarities to Wycaro's romantic hero Raban would make her seem more desirable.)"Even the diner scene, she's still aware this is manipulative, but it is also an incredible act of kindness," Seehorn said. "What they do with that diner is one of the first times you see Carol admit to having a joyful memory where she was actually present instead of fault-finding all the time. She's saying what was great about it instead of what was bad about it, and then she's struck by, 'Wait a minute, is this all just for a certain objective?'"For the actual kissing scene, Seehorn noted that, "Karolina also has the very challenging side of it to play. Are [the Others] being manipulative? Why are they kissing Carol? Are their feelings real? Are they able to disentangle those two things from each other?"Wydra relished that ambiguity, hoping audiences experience a tug-of-war about whether they should root for Carol and Zosia's romance. "I want people to think, 'Wait a second, is Zosia finally moving away from the collective, and you start to see her individuality, and she's truly falling for Carol? Are these feelings mutual and they're both having this experience at the same time?'" Wydra told Mashable in a separate video interview. "Or is it that the collective has all the memories of [Carol's late wife] Helen, and they know what Carol likes and what will tickle her and get her excited? The kind of banter that I have with her, it that genuinely what Zosia's personality is, or is it the collective wanting to do anything to make Carol happy?"The need to make Carol happy resulted in a key decision for the kiss scene: that of who would initiate the kiss."By the time we did the kiss, we played with who's leaning into whom," Seehorn said. "In the end, they had Zosia lean towards me, partially because she can see the pain and the desperation that Carol feels, and how alone she feels. Whether or not it's also manipulative, that's definitely open to interpretation for the audience."Pluribus is now streaming on Apple TV. The Season 1 finale airs Dec. 26.

Social media personality and food critic Keith Lee took home the highest honor of the 2025 TikTok Awards after he was named Creator of the Year at the inaugural ceremony. Lee, a popular food reviewer who highlights small businesses, was visibly choked up in his acceptance speech after being handed the award by presenter Paris Hilton. "When people say they didn’t think they were going to win, that’s not an understatement," Lee said. "I never in a million years thought I would be standing on this stage."The former MMA fighter spoke about TikTok changing his life — imbuing him with a confidence he previously didn't possess. "I couldn’t talk. I couldn't be in rooms with people. I doubted myself. I still doubt myself to this day," Lee said. "TikTok allows people to spotlight the underdog."The TikTok award show showcased a diverse range of creators, including beauty influencers, musicians, and more. You can check out all the details on Mashable's live blog of the event. We also have a list of all the winners, including Lee. Who is Keith Lee?Lee is perhaps the preeminent food reviewer online. His influence in that world earned him a spot on Mashable's list of the 101 most influential creators of 2025. In our profile, we wrote that he "has the power to single-handedly save a business with a positive food review — and he's done it." With over 17 million followers on TikTok, Lee's reach is massive. Lee became known for a trademark delivery style, which is a mix of deadpan and staccato. It's instantly recognizable when Lee delivers his catchphrase, "I got it, let’s try it, and rate it 1-10." His brother, Kevin Lee, a professional MMA fighter, occasionally appears in his videos. Lee also clearly cares about food and the people who make it. He's made it a point to highlight the places that maybe get overlooked. As a part of the award, TikTok announced it would donate $50,000 to Feeding America in Lee's honor, which feels like a fitting tribute.

The first-ever U.S. TikTok Awards are happening right now in Los Angeles, but the pink carpet has already provided plenty of entertainment. A vast array of creators, from Tefi Pessoa to Markell Washington to Trixie Mattel, strutted down a pink carpet at the Hollywood Palladium on Thursday night. It's all part of the TikTok Awards, which will honor the site's top creators. Check out Mashable's live blog on the awards, find out how to watch, and peruse some of the amazing looks below.Trixie Mattel and friends Amy Sussman / Getty Credit: Trixie Mattel and friends on the pink carpet. Golloria George in red on the pink carpet. Credit: Amy Sussman / Getty Love Island's Jeremiah Brown Jeremiah Brown was a vision in white at the TikTok Awards. Credit: Amy Sussman / Getty Paris Hilton hits the red carpet Paris Hilton was a big winner at the TikTok Awards. Credit: Amy Sussman / Getty Tefi Pessoa stuns on the TikTok red carpet. Credit: Amy Sussman / Getty Markell Washington was one of the best dressed man at the awards. Credit: Amy Sussman / Getty Mr. Fantasy hams it up. Credit: Kevin Mazur / Getty Ashby Florence wearing Marc Bouwer at the TikTok Awards. Credit: Phillip Faraone/ Getty Julian Sewell cannot wait for the Oscar nominations. Credit: Amy Sussman / Getty Bob the Drag Queen goes androgynous on the red carpet. Credit: Amy Sussman / Getty Jools Lebron, demure as always. Credit: Phillip Faraone / Getty Landon Barker and Skyler Sanders kill it in black. Credit: Kevin Mazur / Getty Queer Eye star Tan France rocks a deep purple suit. Credit: Phillip Faraone / Getty Reimi was a natural on the red carpet with her S&M-inspired 'fit. Credit: Amy Sussman / Getty Stephanie Valentine channels old school Hollywood. Credit: Amy Sussman / Getty