Apple, Google, and Meta are being investigated by the EU under new Big Tech regulation

DMA apps

The EU is wasting absolutely no time in making sure Big Tech companies are complying with its new Digital Markets Act (DMA) law.

On Monday, the European Commission announced that it was opening non-compliance investigations into three companies defined as “gatekeepers” under the new regulations: Apple, Meta, and Google’s parent company Alphabet.

SEE ALSO:

5 new iOS features you’re not getting because you’re outside the EU

“Today, the Commission has opened non-compliance investigations under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) into Alphabet’s rules on steering in Google Play and self-preferencing on Google Search, Apple’s rules on steering in the App Store and the choice screen for Safari and Meta’s ‘pay or consent model’,” said the European Commission in a statement. “The Commission suspects that the measures put in place by these gatekeepers fall short of effective compliance of their obligations under the DMA.”

Here’s why the EU is investigating Meta, Apple, and Alphabet

The main purpose of the DMA is to force these “gatekeeper” companies to open up its core platforms in order to spur competition from third parties so the investigations are all into Apple, Alphabet, and Meta potentially failing to comply in those areas. However, the EU’s investigation into these three companies is multi-pronged. 

Meta’s “pay or consent”

The investigation into Facebook and Instagram’s parent company, Meta, focuses on what’s called the “pay or consent” model. Under the DMA, tech companies must get consent from users in the EU when they share user data between their core platforms. For example, Meta needs to get permission from a user to share their account data on Facebook in order to serve the user personalized ads via its advertising platform. 

Meta says that it complies with this by providing an option for EU users to subscribe to its paid subscription service on Facebook and Instagram, which provides the user with an entirely ad free experience. By not subscribing to this service, Meta argues that a user is consenting to their data being used.

“The Commission is concerned that the binary choice imposed by Meta’s ‘pay or consent’ model may not provide a real alternative in case users do not consent, thereby not achieving the objective of preventing the accumulation of personal data by gatekeepers,” the Commission says.

Alphabet’s “self-preferencing”

This one is pretty straightforward and has long-been a concern among users. The Commission is investigating whether Google unfairly ranks its own products over third-party services. 

Examples provided by the EU Commission include Google “self-referencing” its Google Shopping, Google Flights, and Google Hotels products over competitors searching for price comparisons or airline and hotel deals.

“The Commission is concerned that Alphabet’s measures implemented to comply with the DMA may not ensure that third-party services featuring on Google’s search results page are treated in a fair and non-discriminatory manner in comparison with Alphabet’s own services,” said the Commission in a statement.

There is one interesting note towards the end of the Commission’s statement regarding self-preferencing and a fourth Big Tech company, ecommerce giant Amazon. The Commission said it is taking “investigatory” steps into looking at Amazon’s own “self-preferencing” when it comes to its own brand of products and alleged unfair preferential placement for those items on Amazon’s website.

Apple and user choice

Apple has received a lot of coverage for its policy changes over the past month and much of it was criticism from its peers for alleged “malicious compliance” with its fee structure changes related to the App Store and alternative iOS app distribution.

However, the Commission announced its looking into another aspect of iOS: user choice.

According to the Commission, it’s investigating whether Apple has allowed users to uninstall any iOS apps, including Apple’s own apps like Safari which currently cannot be removed from iPhone or iPad devices. The Commission will also look into whether Apple has made it easy to change default iOS settings. In addition, the investigation will include whether Apple has been providing adequate choice screens providing consumers with alternatives to the default web browser or search engine.

“The Commission is concerned that Apple’s measures, including the design of the web browser choice screen, may be preventing users from truly exercising their choice of services within the Apple ecosystem,” the Commission stated.

And, speaking of that controversial app fee structure, the EU Commission also announced that it started taking “investigatory” steps into whether these new Apple fees are contradictory to the DMA.

App store steering rules

The EU Commission is looking into both Apple and Alphabet for a possible DMA-compliance issue related to their respective mobile application stores.

App developers can sometimes pay hefty percentages of their revenue to Apple and Alphabet when a user makes a purchase or signs up for a subscription through their mobile app stores. Developers have sought to work around those fees by setting up cheaper alternatives for users to purchase from. However, both Apple’s App Store and Google Play have greatly restricted developers’ ability to “steer” users to those better offers as they seek to collect their fees.

Under the DMA, though, Apple and Google must allow developers to “steer” those users elsewhere. The EU Commission is going to investigate whether either company’s rules impose “restrictions and limitations” that don’t comply with regulation.

These investigations can take up to 12 months, according to the Commission. If the investigation discovers that a company did violate the DMA, the EU can impose a massive fine of 10 percent of the company’s worldwide turnover. The fine can double for repeated infringement.

Wordle today: Here’s the answer and hints for March 25

a phone displaying Wordle

Oh hey there! If you’re here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we’re serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today’s answer.

If you just want to be told today’s word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for March 25’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.

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

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 used to be available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it. Unfortunately, it has since been taken down, with the website’s creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times.

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:

Best Actress winner for her role in Norma Rae.

Does today’s Wordle answer have a double letter?

The letter L appears twice.

Today’s Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with…

Today’s Wordle starts with the letter S.

SEE ALSO:

Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL.

What’s the answer to Wordle today?

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 Wordle #1010 is…

SALLY.

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.

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

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for March 25

A phone displaying the New York Times game 'Connections.'

Connections is the latest New York Times word game 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 March 25’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.

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.

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

  • Yellow: The rate at which something is able to move

  • Green: Picking up the pace

  • Blue: Basketball teams

  • Purple: Things relating to TV

Here are today’s Connections categories

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

  • Yellow: How Fast Something is Going

  • Green: “Step on It!”

  • Blue: NBA Team Player

  • Purple: Tele___

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 Connections #288 is…

What is the answer to Connections today

  • How Fast Something is Going: CLIP, PACE, RATE, SPEED

  • “Step on It!”: FASTER, GO, HURRY, MOVE

  • NBA Team Player: CLIPPER, PACER, ROCKET, SPUR

  • Tele___: COMMUTE, MEDICINE, PROMPTER, VISION

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.

Is this not the Connections game you were looking for? Here are the hints and answers to yesterday’s Connections.

March Madness and Caitlin Clark have already given us some great memes

caitlin clark on the court in march madness

For some sports fans, it’s the most wonderful time of the year: March Madness. The marquee men’s and women’s NCAA basketball tournaments are underway and already producing memorable moments.

Lots of folks have been glued to their televisions over the last few days, watching game after game. In years past March Madness has produced great memes. Remember the sad flute girl and crying Northwestern kid? This year is no exception.

Here are some of the memes and jokes thus far from March Madness, which has been characteristically full of upsets, huge plays, and big emotions.

Caitlin Clark and her dad

Caitlin Clark, the uber-popular superstar leading No. 1-seed Iowa in the women’s tournament, is a famously heated player. Her Hawkeyes easily dispatched 16-seed Holy Cross, 91-65, in their opening game. Even still, Clark was still getting into it with the referees. To be fair, she did take a nasty elbow to the face during the game.

But Clark’s father was frustrated with her antics from the stands. He seemed to exasperatedly tell his daughter to stop complaining, and lots of folks found it funny. It seemed like an interaction lots of people had with their dads in youth sports.

Oakland’s upset and Jack Gohlke

The biggest upset of March Madness thus far was 14-seed Oakland’s stunning defeat of 3-seed Kentucky. Led by sharpshooter Jack Gohlke, Oakland squeaked by a Kentucky team full of future NBA stars. Folks online loved joking about Gohlke, who maybe didn’t look like a typical basketball star, but sure played like it.

Kentucky sadness

Speaking of Gohlke, lots of folks got jokes off at Kentucky’s expense after they were ousted by underdog Oakland. When you’ve had as much success as Kentucky has historically, it makes sense opposing fans would take pleasure in your demise.

Yale takes down Auburn

Auburn, a 3-seed, got upset by Yale, a 14-seed much better known for its academics than its hoops. There were, of course, some jokes about that.

Despite all the wild stories thus far, we’re still in the very beginning stages of March Madness, with Round 2 games underway. There will certainly be more memes and jokes to come.

Oh boy, ‘Joker 2’ might be a ‘jukebox musical’

lady gaga acting in the joker movie

Sometimes a sentence comes along that makes you do a double take. For me, this sentence, in a tweet from Variety, most definitely qualifies.

Variety wrote on X: “EXCLUSIVE: Insiders privy to filming and early versions of Todd Phillips’ ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’ tell Variety the movie leans heavily towards being ‘mostly a jukebox musical,’ as it integrates at last 15 reinterpretations of ‘very well-known’ songs.”

The next Joker movie — a film that took itself very seriously even if it didn’t say much — is…going…to be a jukebox musical? The character that ended up being super popular with the far right is going to be singing and dancing around. The movie is set to star Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga. Having Gaga sing is never a bad idea, but um, still this whole idea leaves you wondering WTF.

A ton of people online agreed with my sentiment. Folks also wondered what songs would be involved. There is lots to figure out because it’s a truly strange idea to turn the Joker into Mamma Mia.

So, yes, Joker 2 — which will apparently be titled Joker: Folie à Deux — will reportedly be a musical. Interesting. Strange. It’s scheduled to be released in October, so we’ve got plenty of time to get jokes off until it comes out.

350+ top deals from day five of Amazon’s Big Spring Sale

a composite of products on sale during amazon's big spring sale surrounded by sparkle emojis against a coral background

UPDATE: Mar. 24, 2024, 10:00 a.m. EDT This story has been updated with new drone deals from day five of Amazon’s Spring Sale event.

Best Amazon Big Spring Sale deals at a glance:

Best Apple deal

Apple AirPods Pro (USB-C)

$189 at Amazon
(save $59)

the Apple AirPods Pro (USB-C) with their charging case


Best laptop deal

Acer Aspire 3

$256.99 at Amazon
(save $73)

the Acer Aspire 3


Best robot vacuum deal

iRobot Roomba j7

$298.98 at Amazon
(save $301.01)

an iRobot Roomba j7 next to a smartphone displaying the irobot logo


Best headphone/earbud deal

Amazon Echo Buds with Active Noise Cancellation (2nd Gen)

$54.99 at Amazon
(save $65)

the Amazon Echo Buds with Active Noise Cancellation (2nd Gen)


Best TV deal

TCL 75-inch Q6 QLED TV

$599.99 at Amazon
(save $300)

the TCL 75-inch Q6 QLED TV


Best unlocked phone deal

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB)

$1,149.99 at Amazon
(save $150)

front and rear views of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra next to a matching s pen


Best Fire device deal

Amazon Fire Max 11 (128GB)

$199.99 at Amazon
(save $80)

two Amazon Fire Max 11 tablets leaning up against each other


Best fitness tracker deal

Garmin Forerunner 255

$249.99 at Amazon
(save $100)

the Garmin Forerunner 255


Best outdoor security camera deal

Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera

$77.99 at Amazon
(save $51.99)

the Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera


Best Bluetooth tracker deal

Tile Starter Pack

$42.29 at Amazon
(save $12.70)

the tile starter pack

Spring temperatures are melting prices at Amazon. The retail giant is hosting a new seasonal savings event this week called the “Big Spring Sale” (very apt), and it’s not just another iteration of its flagship Prime Day sale.

Live now through Monday, March 25 at amazon.com/bigspringsale, the Big Spring Sale is a first-of-its-kind event featuring deals that revolve around “seasonally relevant items” and “warm-weather essentials,” according to a post on Amazon’s blog. That includes sports and outdoor equipment, cleaning and organizing products, and select electronics, from Apple devices to Fire tablets.

SEE ALSO:

Walmart is coming for Amazon with a competing spring sale: See the 25+ best deals

In a deviation from Prime Day, Amazon’s biggest savings event of the year, the Big Spring Sale isn’t entirely restricted to members of its paid Prime subscription service. However, the company’s announcement notes that members “will receive access to exciting, exclusive deals” as part of it. If you haven’t signed up for Prime yet, you can jumpstart a 14-day trial for free.

Keep reading for the Mashable Shopping team’s running list of hand-picked highlights from the Big Spring Sale, and check back often: New doorbusters are being added every day.

Best Amazon Spring Sale Apple deals

the Apple AirPods Pro (USB-C) with their charging case

Credit: Apple

Apple AirPods Pro (USB-C)

$189.00
at Amazon

$249.00
Save $60.00

Why we like them

Read Mashable’s full review of the Apple AirPods Pro USB-C.

“The USB-C AirPods Pro came onto the scene last year, offering a much-needed upgrade with its charging port, while keeping the features we loved on the Lightning Pros. With these earbuds, you get maximum portability, great functionality with Apple devices, and some of the best ANC you can find on a pair of earbuds.” — Bethany Allard, Lead Shopping Reporter

More Apple deals

AirPods

  • Apple AirPods Max — $499 $549 (save $50)

Apple accessories

  • Apple AirTag — $24 $29 (save $5)

  • Apple Pencil 2 — $79 $129 (save $50)

  • Apple AirTags (4-pack) — $82.99 $99 (save $16.99)

Apple Watches

  • Apple Watch SE (40mm, GPS) — $199.99 $249 (save $49.01)

  • Apple Watch SE (44mm, GPS) — $219 $279 (save $60)

  • Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm, GPS) — $329 $399 (save $70)

  • Apple Watch Series 9 (45mm, GPS) — $349 $429 (save $80)

  • Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm, GPS + cellular) — $429 $499 (save $70)

  • Apple Watch Series 9 (45mm, GPS + cellular) — $449 $529 (save $80)

  • Apple Watch Ultra 2 (49mm, GPS + cellular) — $749 $799 (save $50)

iPads

  • Apple iPad, 10.9-inch (WiFi, 64GB) — $349 $449 (save $100)

  • Apple iPad, 10.9-inch (WiFi + cellular, 64GB) — $499 $599 (save $100)

  • Apple iPad, 10.2-inch (WiFi, 64GB) — $249 $329 (save $80)

  • Apple iPad Air, 10.9-inch (WiFi, 64GB) — $449 $599 (save $150)

  • Apple iPad Air, 10.9-inch (WiFi + cellular, 64GB) — $599.99 $749 (save $149.01)

  • Apple iPad mini, 8.3-inch (WiFi, 64GB) — $399.99 $499 (save $99.01)

Macbooks

  • Apple MacBook Air, 13.6-inch (M3, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) — $1,049.99 $1,999.99 (save $49.01)

  • Apple MacBook Pro, 14.2-inch (M3, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $1,399 $1,599 (save $200)

  • Apple MacBook Pro, 14.2-inch (M3 Pro, 18GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,199.99 $2,399 (save $199.01 with on-page coupon)

  • Apple MacBook Pro, 16.2-inch (M3 Pro, 18GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $2,249.99 $2,499 (save $249.01 with on-page coupon)

  • Apple MacBook Pro, 14.2-inch (M3 Max, 36GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $2,899 $3,199 (save $300)

  • Apple MacBook Pro, 16.2-inch (M3 Max, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $3,244 $3,499 (save $255)

Macs

  • Apple Mac mini (M2, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $699 $799 (save $100)

Best Amazon Spring Sale laptop deals

FYI: Scroll back up to the Apple deals section if you’re looking for discounts on MacBooks.

the Acer Aspire 3

Credit: Acer

Acer Aspire 3

$256.99
at Amazon

$329.99
Save $73.00

Why we like it

“After going on sale for $299.99 earlier in the Big Spring Sale, the Acer Aspire 3 is now even cheaper (at $73 off), putting it just $7 away from last November’s record low. You don’t really have a right to complain about mediocre specs at this entry-level price point, but this guy’s hardware is above-average compared to most other sub-$300 laptops: There’s an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U processor from late 2022, a healthy 8GB of memory for light multitasking, 128GB of SSD storage, and a 15.6-inch HD display. It’s a fine pick for basic tasks like sending emails and watching YouTube.” — Haley Henschel, Senior Shopping Reporter

More laptop deals

Traditional laptops

  • Samsung Galaxy Book3 (Intel Core i5-1335U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $619.99 $999.99 (save $380)

  • ASUS Vivobook 16X (Intel Core i7-13700H, 8GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $679.99 $849.99 (save $170)

  • HP Laptop 15-fd0099nr (Intel Core i7-1355U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $639.99 $839.99 (save $200)

  • Samsung Galaxy Book3 Pro, 14-inch (Intel Core i5-1340P, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $969.70 $1,449.99 (save $480.29)

  • Samsung Galaxy Book3 Pro, 16-inch (Intel Core i5-1340P, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $969.99 $1,549.99 (save $580)

  • ASUS VivoBook Pro 16 (Intel Core i9-13900H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,199.99 $1,499.99 (save $300)

  • Samsung Galaxy Book3 Pro, 16-inch (Intel Core i7, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,349.99 $2,0499.99 (save $700)

2-in-1 laptops

  • HP Envy x360 15-ew1199nr (Intel Core i7-1355U, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $869.99 $1,119.99 (save $250)

  • Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (Intel Core i7-1255U, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) — $1,099 $1,599.99 (save $500)

Gaming laptops

  • ASUS TUF Gaming F15 (Intel Core i5-12500H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $799.99 $899.99 (save $100)

  • ASUS ROG Strix G15 (AMD Ryzen 7 6800HS, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050, 16GB DDR5, 512GB SSD) — $799.99 $999.99 (save $200)

  • ASUS ROG Strix G17 (AMD Ryzen 7 6800H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) — $999.99 $1,199.99 (save $200)

  • ASUS TUF Gaming A17 (AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,199.99 $1,499.99 (save $300)

  • ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15 (Intel Core i9-12900H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,499.99 $2,049.99 (save $550)

  • ASUS ROG Strix G16 (Intel Core i9-13980HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) — $1,699.99 $1,999.99 (save $300)

Best Amazon Spring Sale robot vacuum deals

an iRobot Roomba j7 next to a smartphone displaying the irobot logo

Credit: iRobot

iRobot Roomba j7

$298.98
at Amazon

$599.99
Save $301.01

Why we like it

“We’re always going to sound the alarm when a 50% discount is spotted on a Roomba. Even without mopping or self-emptying capabilities, the Roomba j7 is still one of the most solid Roombas — and robot vacuums in general — that you could bring home, and that’s all due to small obstacle avoidance. On top of room-to-room smart mapping, any j series Roomba steers clear of things like phone chargers, pet waste, and socks. This capability, which we first experienced when testing the Combo j7+, is an absolute game-changer if your previous gripe with robot vacuums was that you had to clean up the room before sending them out to clean.” — Leah Stodart, Senior Shopping Reporter

More robot vacuum deals

  • iRobot Roomba 692 — $169.99 $269 (save $99.01)

  • eufy L60 — $199.99 $279.99 (save $80)

  • iRobot Roomba Combo i5 robot vacuum and mop — $259.79 $349.99 (save $90.20)

  • Eufy G30 Hybrid robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $269.99 $429.99 (save $160 with Prime)

  • Roborock Q5 Pro robot vacuum and mop — $279.99 $429.99 (save $150 with Prime)

  • Shark AI Ultra 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop — $299.99 $449.99 (save $150)

  • Shark IQ AV1010AE with self-emptying — $299.99 $379.99 (save $80)

  • Eufy L60 with self-emptying — $299.99 $399.99 (save $100 with Prime)

  • Shark AI AV2501 with self-emptying — $349.99 $649.99 (save $300)

  • Roborock Q5+ — $379.99 $699.99 (save $320)

  • Ecovacs Deebot N10 Plus robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $349.99 $649.99 (save $300)

  • Eufy X8 Pro with self-emptying— $399.99 $649.99 (save $250)

  • Roborock Q7 Max+ robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $419.99 $869.99 (save $450 with on-page coupon)

  • Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 with self-emptying — $429.99 $699.99 (save $270)

  • Eufy X9 Pro robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $599.99 $899.99 (save $300)

  • Ecovacs Deebot T10 Omni robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $629.99 $1,199.99 (save $570)

  • Roborock S8+ robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $699.99 $999.99 (save $300)

  • Roborock Q Revo robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $699.99 $899.99 (save $200 with on-page coupon)

  • Ecovacs Deebot X1 Omni robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $799.99 $1,549.99 (save $750)

  • Dreame L20 Ultra robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $899.99 $1,499.99 (save $600 with on-page coupon)

  • Roborock S8 Pro Ultra robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $999.99 $1,599.99 (save $600)

  • Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $1,099.99 $1,499.99 (save $400)

  • Narwal Freo X Ultra robot vacuum and mop with self-emptying — $1,199.99 $1,399.99 (save $200 with on-page coupon)

Best Amazon Spring Sale headphone/earbud deals

FYI: Scroll back up to the Apple deals section if you’re looking for discounts on AirPods.

the Amazon Echo Buds with Active Noise Cancellation (2nd Gen)

Credit: Amazon

Amazon Echo Buds with Active Noise Cancellation (2nd Gen)

$54.99
at Amazon

$119.99
Save $65.00

Why we like them

Read Mashable’s full review of the Amazon Echo Buds with Active Noise Cancellation (2nd Gen).

“We’re not going to lie, it can be a little tricky to find more-than-decent ANC on a pair of budget earbuds. At their full price of $119.99, the Echo Buds already offer a fairly enticing price point for that criteria, but at $54.99, that’s nearly unbeatable. Mashable Tech Reporter Alex Perry wrote in his Echo Buds review, ‘Considering how much cheaper these are than other big-name ANC-enabled earbuds, it’s pretty incredible that the ANC works as well as it does.’ You shouldn’t expect Bose-standard noise cancellation, the touch panels can be a little too sensitive, and the battery life is just okay, but these are fair trade-offs for the money you’re saving.” — Bethany Allard, Lead Shopping Reporter

More speaker, headphone, and earbud deals

Headphones

  • Anker Soundcore Q30 — $55.99 $79.99 (save $24)

  • Anker Soundcore Space One — $79 $99 (save $20)

  • Anker Soundcore Space Q45 — $99.99 $149.99 (save $50)

  • Sony WH-CH720N — $128 $149.99 (save $21.99)

  • Beats Studio Pro — $199.95 $349.99 (save $150.04)

  • Sony WH-1000XM4 — $248 $348 (save $100)

  • Sony WH-1000XM5 — $328 $398 (save $70)

Earbuds

  • JBL Vibe 200TWS — $29.95 $49.95 (save $20)

  • Amazon Echo Buds (2023) — $34.99 $49.99 (save $15)

  • Beats Flex wireless earbuds — $39.99 $69.95 (save $29.96)

  • Anker Soundcore Space A40 — $49 $99.99 (save $50.99)

  • JBL Tune 130NC — $59.95 $99.95 (save $40)

  • JBL Tune 230NC — $59.95 $99.95 (save $40)

  • Skullcandy Grind wireless earbuds — $59.99 $79.99 (save $20)

  • Jabra Elite 4 — $59.99 $99.99 (save $40)

  • Anker Soundcore Liberty 4NC — $74.50 $99.99 (save $25.49)

  • Samsung Galaxy Buds FE — $79.99 $99.99 (save $20)

  • Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 — $79.99 $149.99 (save $70)

  • Jabra Elite 4 Active — $89.99 $119.99 (save $30)

  • Jabra Elite 5 — $89.99 $149.99 (save $60)

  • Beats Studio Buds — $99.95 $149.95 (save $50)

  • Beats Studio Buds + — $129.95 $169.95 (save $40)

  • Anker Soundcore AeroFit Pro — $129.99 $169.99 (save $40)

  • Google Pixel Buds Pro — $139 $199.99 (save $60.99)

  • Sony LinkBuds S — $148 $199.99 (save $51.99)

  • Beats Fit Pro — $159.99 $199.99 (save $40)

  • Jabra Elite 8 Active — $159.99 $199.99 (save $40)

  • Jabra Elite 10 — $199.99 $249.99 (save $50)

Speakers

  • JBL Go 3 — $39.95 $49.95 (save $10)

  • Sony SRS-XE200 — $98 $129.99 (save $31.99)

  • Ultimate Ears Boom 3 — $112.48 $149.99 (save $37.51)

  • Bose SoundLink Flex — $129.99 $149.99 (save $20)

  • Marshall Acton III — $249.99 $279.99 (save $30)

  • Ultimate Ears Hyperboom — $321.54 $449.99 (save $128.45)

  • Sonos Move 2 — $359.20 $429 (save $169.80)

  • JBL Authentics 500 — $599.95 $699.95 (save $100)

Best Amazon Spring Sale TV deals

the TCL 75-inch Q6 QLED TV

Credit: TCL

TCL 75-inch Q6 QLED TV

$599.99
at Amazon

$899.99
Save $300.00

Why we like it

“If price has been the only factor deterring you from upgrading to an XL screen, check out this 75-inch QLED TV from TCL that has dropped to a new record-low price of $599.99 (according to Amazon price tracker camelcamelcamel). The Q6 is one of TCL’s cheapest models to utilize quantum dots: an extra layer of nanoparticles between the screen and direct backlighting. This creates the brightness necessary for Dolby Vision and HDR10+ compatibility to be worthwhile — brightness that a regular LED TV just can’t compete with. TCL has also loaded the Q6 series with Motion Rate 240 motion smoothing technology and three HDMI ports, making it a super solid budget gaming TV.” — Leah Stodart, Senior Shopping Reporter

More TV deals

  • Roku 43-inch 4K TV — $199.99 $249.99 (save $50)

  • Toshiba 43-inch C350 4K Fire TV — $219.99 $279.99 (save $60)

  • Insignia 50-inch F30 4K Fire TV — $209.99 $299.99 (save $90)

  • Amazon 50-inch Omni 4K Fire TV — $299.99 $479.99 (save $180 with Prime)

55 to 58 inches

  • Insignia 55-inch F30 4K Fire TV — $239.99 $349.99 (save $110)

  • Roku 55-inch 4K TV — $298 $349.99 (save $51.99)

  • Amazon 55-inch Omni 4K Fire TV — $399.99 $549.99 (save $150)

  • LG 55-inch 85 Series QNED TV — $996.99 $1,399.99 (save $403)

  • Hisense 58-inch U6HF QLED Fire TV — $419.99 $599.99 (save $180)

65 to 70 inches

  • Hisense 65-inch R6 4K TV — $399.99 $799.99 (save $400)

  • TCL 65-inch Q6 QLED TV — $498 $699.99 (save $201.99)

  • Hisense 65-inch U6HF QLED Fire TV — $549.99 $749.99 (save $200)

  • LG 65-inch C3 OLED TV — $1,596.99 $1,999.99 (save $403)

75 to 98 inches

  • Toshiba 75-inch C350 4K Fire TV — $519.99 $649.99 (save $130)

  • Hisense 75-inch U6HF QLED Fire TV — $629.99 $1,149.99 (save $520)

  • LG 75-inch 80 Series QNED TV — $1,096.99 $1,496.99 (save $400)

  • TCL 75-inch QM8 QLED TV — $1,198 $2,299.99 (save $1,101.99)

  • Samsung 85-inch Q70C QLED TV — $1,597.99 $2,797.99 (save $1,200)

  • Samsung 85-inch QN90C QLED TV — $2,397.99 $4,797.99 (save $2,400)

  • TCL 98-inch S5 4K TV — $1,998 $3,999.99 (save $2,001.99)

Best Amazon Spring Sale unlocked phone deals

front and rear views of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra next to a matching s pen

Credit: Samsung

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (256GB)

$1,149.99
at Amazon

$1,299.99
Save $150.00

Why we like it

Read Mashable’s full review of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.

“A close rival to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Samsung’s new Galaxy S24 Ultra is a premium 6.8-inch smartphone with a durable titanium design, a rear telephoto lens with impressive zoom capabilities, and a smattering of neat AI features. It also comes with a built-in S Pen stylus that doubles as a remote, according to Mashable tech editor Kim Gedeon. This is the 256GB base model’s first discount since it launched in January 2024.” — Haley Henschel, Senior Shopping Reporter

More unlocked phone deals

Samsung Galaxy

  • Samsung Galaxy A25 5G (128GB) — $264.99 $299.99 (save $35)

  • Samsung Galaxy S24 (128GB) — $749.99 $799.99 (save $50)

  • Samsung Galaxy S24+ (128GB) — $849.99 $999.99 (save $150)

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 (256GB) — $849.99 $999.99 (save $150)

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 (256GB) — $1,499.99 $1,799.99 (save $300)

Google Pixel

  • Google Pixel 7a (128GB) — $374 $499 (save $125)

  • Google Pixel 8 (128GB) — $499 $699 (save $200)

  • Google Pixel 8 Pro (128GB) — $749 $999 (save $150)

  • Google Pixel Fold (256GB) — $1,299 $1,799 (save $500)

Motorola

  • Morotola moto g play (32GB) — $99.99 $169.99 (save $70)

  • Motorola moto g stylus (64GB) — $129.99 $199.99 (save $70)

  • Motorola moto g 5G (128GB) — $169.99 $249.99 (save $80)

  • Motorola moto g power 5G (256GB) — $199.99 $299.99 (save $100)

  • Motorola moto g stylus 5G (256GB) — $249.99 $399.99 (save $150)

  • Motorola edge (256GB) — $349.99 $599.99 (save $150)

  • Motorola razr (128GB) — $499.99 $699.99 (save $200)

  • Motorola razr+ (256GB) — $699.99 $999.99 (save $300)

Best Amazon Spring Sale phone accessory deals

the Anker MagGo charging a smartphone and a smartwatch

Credit: Anker

Anker MagGo

$82.49
at Amazon

$109.99
Save $27.50

Why we like it

“Just released in February of this year, the Anker MagGo foldable 3-in-1 charging station just got its first big discount for the Big Spring Sale. It regularly retails for $109.99, but you can grab it for just $82.49 and save 25%. As the name suggests, it can wirelessly charge three gadgets at once — an iPhone, an Apple Watch, and AirPods (or other Qi-enabled devices) — and fast (15W). The vertical design is compact and convenient for a desk or bedside table. Plus, it weighs under 7 ounces and folds up smaller than Apple’s Magic Mouse, making it ideal for travel.” — Christina Buff, Contributor

More phone accessory deals

Wall chargers and charging stations

  • Anker 40W 2-port USB-C car charger — $13.59 $16.99 (save $3.40)

  • Apple 20W USB-C power adapter — $14.99 $19 (save $4.01)

  • Belkin 30W USB-C power adapter — $15.50 $22.99 (save $7.49)

  • Anker 6-foot USB-C charger cable (5-pack) — $22.99 $35 (save $12.01)

  • Belkin MagSafe charging pad — $22.99 $29.99 (save $7)

  • Anker Nano 3 47W 2-port USB-C charger — $23.99 $29.99 (save $6)

  • Belkin 45W Dual USB-C power adapter — $29.99 $39.99 (save $10)

  • Anker PowerWave magnetic 2-in-1 charging stand — $31.99 $39.99 (save $8)

  • Samsung 15W wireless charger duo with travel adapter — $39.99 $89.99 (save $50)

  • Anker Prime 67W 3-port USB-C power adapter — $49.99 $65.99 (save $16)

  • Anker Prime 100W 3-port USB-C power adapter — $63.74 $86.99 (save $23.25)

  • Anker MagGo 8-in-1 charging station — $69.99 $99.99 (save $30)

  • Apple MagSafe Duo — $94 $129 (save $35)

Portable chargers

  • Anker Nano portable charger for iPhone — $18.99 $29.99 (save $11)

  • Anker 621 MagGo 5,000mAh portable charger — $31.99 $39.99 (save $8)

  • Anker Power Bank 20,000mAh battery pack — $33.74 $44.99 (save $11.25)

  • Belkin BoostCharge magnetic wireless power bank with kickstand (pink, purple) — $37.70 $49.99 (save $12.29)

  • Anker 622 MagGo 5,000mAh portable charger — $39.98 $69.99 (save $30.01)

  • Belkin BoostCharge magnetic wireless power bank with kickstand (black, white) — $40.99 $59.99 (save $19)

  • Anker MagGo power bank — $47.99 $69.99 (save $22)

  • Anker 737 power bank — $79.99 $129.99 (save $50)

  • Anker Prime power bank — $124.99 $179.99 (save $55)

Phone cases

  • Spigen Ultra Hybrid Case (Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra) — $16.14 $34.99 (save $18.85 with on-page coupon)

  • OtterBox Commuter Series Case (iPhone 11) — $18.82 $39.95 (save $21.13)

  • Apple iPhone 15 FineWoven Case with MagSafe — $18.90 $59 (save $40.10)

  • Spigen Tough Armor Case (Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra) — $18.99 $44.99 (save $26 with on-page coupon)

  • OtterBox Commuter Series Case (iPhone 13 and iPhone 14) — $19.97 $39.95 (save $19.98)

  • OtterBox Commuter Series Case (iPhone 13) — $21.21 $39.95 (save $18.74)

  • OtterBox Commuter Series (iPhone 14 Pro Max) — $21.24 $39.95 (save $18.71)

  • OtterBox Commuter Series Case (iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Pro Max) — $22.82 $39.95 (save $17.13)

  • OtterBox Defender Series Case (iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro) — $24.22 $59.95 (save $35.73)

  • OtterBox Defender Series Case (iPhone 11) — $25 $59.95 (save $34.95)

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 Silicone Phone Case with Ring — $27.99 $39.99 (save $12)

  • OtterBox Commuter Series Case (iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus) — $29.97 $39.95 (save $9.98)

  • OtterBox Defender Series Case (iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro Max) — $31.13 $59.95 (save $28.82)

  • OtterBox Commuter Series Case (iPhone 15 Pro) — $31.97 $39.95 (save $7.98)

  • OtterBox Commuter Series Case (Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra) — $33.16 $39.95 (save $6.79)

  • OtterBox Commuter Series Case (iPhone 15 Pro Max) — $33.19 $39.95 (save $6.76)

  • Apple iPhone FineWoven Wallet with MagSafe — $34.66 $59 (save $24.34 with on-page coupon)

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 Phone Case with S Pen — $40 $79.99 (save $39.99)

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 Eco Leather Phone Case — $40.05 $79.99 (save $39.94 with on-page coupon)

  • OtterBox Defender Series Case (Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra) — $53.91 $64.95 (save $11.04)

Best Amazon Spring Sale Fire device deals

two Amazon Fire Max 11 tablets leaning up against each other

Credit: Amazon

Amazon Fire Max 11 (128GB)

$199.99
at Amazon

$279.99
Save $80.00

Why we like it

Read Mashable’s full review of the Amazon Fire Max 11 tablet.

“The Fire Max 11 tablet is Amazon’s most feature-complete tablet to date, and you can currently snag the 128GB model for $200 (or $80 off) — its lowest price yet. It’s packed with a speedy and powerful octa-core processor that’s perfect for productivity and entertainment, can handle up to 14 hours of use on a single charge, and has a beautiful 11-inch screen to tie it all together. You can even get a bundle that comes with a keyboard cover and stylus at a discount (almost $120 off).” — Dylan Haas, Lead Shopping Reporter

More Fire device deals

Amazon Fire tablets

  • Amazon Fire HD 8 (32GB) — $64.99 $99.99 (save $35)

  • Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (32GB) — $74.99 $119.99 (save $45)

  • Amazon Fire HD 10 (32GB) — $94.99 $139.99 (save $45)

  • Amazon Fire Max 11 (64GB) — $179.99 $229.99 (save $50)

Amazon Fire Kids tablets

  • Amazon Fire 7 Kids (16GB) — $69.99 $109.99 (save $40)

  • Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids (32GB) — $99.99 $149.99 (save $50)

  • Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro (32GB) — $99.99 $149.99 (save $50)

  • Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids (32GB) — $149.99 $189.99 (save $40)

  • Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro (32GB) — $149.99 $189.99 (save $40)

Refurbished Amazon Fire tablets

  • Certified Refurbished Amazon Fire HD 8 (32GB) — $54.99 $84.99 (save $30)

  • Certified Refurbished Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus (32GB) — $84.99 $159.99 (save $75)

Amazon Fire TV devices

  • Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite — $19.99 $29.99 (save $10)

  • Amazon Fire TV Stick — $24.99 $39.99 (save $15)

  • Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K — $29.99 $49.99 (save $20)

  • Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max — $39.99 $59.99 (save $20)

Best Amazon Spring Sale tablet deals

FYI: Scroll back up to the Apple deals and Fire TV device deals sections if you’re looking for discounts on iPads and Fire tablets, respectively.

the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE

Credit: Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE (128GB)

$349.99
at Amazon

$449.99
Save $100.00

Why we like it

“If you prefer going against the grain and not buying an iPad, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE is a solid alternative, and it’s on sale for $100 off the usual price during the Amazon sale. It’s one of the most water- and dust-resistant tablets on the market, can last up to 18 hours on a single charge, and comes with an S Pen.” — Dylan Haas, Lead Shopping Reporter

More tablet deals

  • Lenovo Tab M9 (32GB) — $99.99 $149.99 (save $50)

  • Lenovo Tab M10 Plus (128GB) — $129.99 $229.99 (save $100)

  • Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ (64GB) — $169.99 $219.99 (save $50)

  • Lenovo Tab P11 (128GB) — $199.99 $234.82 (save $34.83)

  • Google Pixel Tablet (128GB) — $399 $499 (save $100)

  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (128GB) — $499 $599.99 (save $100.99)

Best Amazon Spring Sale fitness tracker deals

FYI: Scroll back up to the Apple deals section if you’re looking for discounts on Apple Watches.

the Garmin Forerunner 255

Credit: Garmin

Garmin Forerunner 255

$249.99
at Amazon

$349.99
Save $100.00

Why we like it

“The Garmin Forerunner 255 is on the higher-budget end of fitness trackers, but at $100 off during Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, we think it’s worth considering. The durable fitness watch features a slim design, but can still withstand excessive sweat and accidental drops. Using the device’s easy-to-use five-button layout, you’ll be able to check on things like your heart rate, sleep quality, recovery score, and more. It even has a 14-day battery life, so you won’t have to constantly slow yourself down as you work towards your fitness goals.” — Dylan Haas, Lead Shopping Reporter

More fitness tracker deals

  • Amazfit Bip 3 — $44.99 $59.99 (save $15)

  • Amazfit GTS 2e — $49.99 $69.99 (save $20)

  • Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 — $69.99 $89.99 (save $20)

  • Amazfit GTS 3 — $89.99 $119.99 (save $30)

  • Amazfit GTR Mini — $89.99 $119.99 (save $30)

  • Fitbit Luxe — $99.95 $129.95 (save $30)

  • Amazfit Active — $119.99 $149.99 (save $30)

  • Amazfit Active Edge — $124.99 $139.99 (save $15)

  • Garmin Venu Sq — $149.99 $199.99 (save $50)

  • Garmin Instinct — $161.30 $249.99 (save $88.69)

  • Garmin Forerunner 55 — $169.99 $199.99 (save $30)

  • Amazfit GTS 4 — $179.99 $199.99 (save $20)

  • Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 (44mm) — $229.61 $329.99 (save $100.38)

  • Fitbit Sense 2 — $241.99 $299.95 (save $57.96)

Best Amazon Spring Sale outdoor security camera deals

the Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera

Credit: Blink

Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera

$77.99
at Amazon

$129.98
Save $51.99

Why we like it

“With 700 lumens of motion-triggered illumination, the new Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight camera lets you see what’s happening outside of your home in crisp HD no matter the time of day. Thanks to two-way audio, you can speak to people and pets using the Blink app on your smartphone, and get a heads up if that noise you heard outside was a squirrel rustling in the bushes or an actual intruder. With the Blink subscription plan (sold separately), the enhanced motion detection goes even further with person detection. At 40% off ahead of the Big Spring Sale, you can grab this easy-to-setup security camera for an all-time low of $77.99.” — Christina Buff, Contributor

More outdoor security camera deals

Security cameras

  • TP-Link Tapo 2K QHD security camera — $34.99 $39.99 (save $5)

  • Kasa Cam Outdoor — $39.95 $44.99 (save $5.04)

  • eufy Security Outdoor Cam E210 — $44.99 $79.99 (save $35)

  • eufy Security SoloCam C210 — $49.98 $79.99 (save $30.01)

  • Blink Outdoor 4 (4th Gen) add-on camera — $58.49 $89.99 (save $31.50)

  • TP-Link Tapo CF20WS 2K QHD outdoor pan/tilt security camera — $59.99 $69.99 (save $10)

  • Blink Outdoor 4 (4th Gen) — $64.99 $99.99 (save $35)

  • Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera — $69.99 $129.99 (save $60)

  • TP-Link ColorPro outdoor camera — $78.89 $99.99 (save $21.10)

  • TP-Link Tapo MagCam — $79.99 $119.99 (save $40 with on-page coupon)

  • eufy Security eufyCam E330 — $89.99 $129.99 (save $40 with on-page coupon)

  • eufy Security eufyCam 2C 2-camera kit — $129.99 $239.99 (save $110)

  • Google Nest Cam (2nd Gen) — $139.98 $179.99 (save $40.01)

  • Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera — $139.99 $199.99 (save $60)

  • Blink Outdoor 4 (4th Gen) 3-camera system — $149.99 $259.99 (save $110)

  • eufy Security SoloCam S340 — $159.99 $199.99 (save $40)

  • eufy Security Floodlight Camera E340 — $169.99 $219.99 (save $50)

  • Arlo Essential Spotlight Camera 3-pack — $199.99 $349.99 (save $150)

  • Google Nest Cam with Floodlight — $219.98 $279.99 (save $60.01)

Video doorbells

  • Blink Video Doorbell — $41.99 $59.99 (save $18)

  • Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell — $49.99 $129.99 (save $80)

  • Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell — $67.99 $199.99 (save $132)

  • Blink Video Doorbell + Blink Mini Camera — $71.98 $89.98 (save $18)

Best Amazon Spring Sale kitchen deals

the Instant Vortex 6-quart XL Air Fryer

Credit: Instant Pot

Instant Vortex 6-quart XL Air Fryer

$79.95
at Amazon

$119.99
Save $40.04

Why we like it

“Air fryers have earned their place as a kitchen essential, offering convenience when it come to serving up a quick meal and earning health points since they require less oil than traditional frying. The Instant Vortex 6-quart XL Air Fryer is just $79.95 at Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, marked down from the normal price of $119.99, which is a 33% discount. Choose from pre-set programs that include air fry, roast, bake, and reheat for easy meal prep. Instant Pot mentions the 6-quart size is ideal for those cooking up four to six servings.” — Lauren Allain, Contributor

More kitchen deals

  • Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Food Processor — $29.98 $39.95 (save $9.97)

  • Nostalgia SnowPro electric shaved ice and snow cone maker — $39.99 $59.99 (save $20)

  • Stasher Reusable Silicone Storage Bags (4-pack) — $49.49 $65.99 (save $16.50)

  • Cuisinart Automatic Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream, and Sorbet Maker — $55.94 $69.95 (save $14.01)

  • Carote 11-piece nonstick cookware set with removable handle — $59.98 $99.99 (save $40.01)

  • Keurig K-Compact — $59.99 $99.99 (save $40)

  • Chef iQ smart wireless meat thermometer — $79.98 $139.99 (save $50.01)

  • Instant Pot 6-in-1 air fryer and indoor grill — $135.99 $199.99 (save $64)

  • Ninja BL770AMZ Mega Kitchen System — $139.99 $199.99 (save $60)

  • Ninja Foodi XL 7-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill — $179.99 $349.99 (save $170)

  • Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine — $599 $799 (save $200)

Best Amazon Spring Sale Bluetooth tracker deals

FYI: Scroll back up to the Apple deals section if you’re looking for discounts on AirTags.

the tile starter pack

Credit: Tile

Tile Starter Pack

$42.29
at Amazon

$54.99
Save $12.70

Why we like it

“If you’re new to the world of Bluetooth trackers, the Tile Starter Pack is a great introduction. This pack comes with one Tile Mate and one Tile Slim. The Mate is designed to conveniently attach to your key ring while the Mate is similar in size to a credit card to easily slip into your wallet or purse. Both are water-resistant so there’s no stress if you drop your keys in your mug of coffee, and both are compatible with iOS for Apple users and Android devices.” — Lauren Allain, Contributor

More Bluetooth tracker deals

  • Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 — $20.99 $29.99 (save $9)

  • Tile Sticker (2-pack) — $43.99 $54.99 (save $11)

  • Tile Pro (4-pack) — $79.99 $99.99 (save $20)

Best Amazon Spring Sale outdoor deals

the Coleman 316 Series 62-Quart Wheeled Cooler

Credit: Coleman

Coleman 316 Series 62-Quart Wheeled Cooler

$60.05
at Amazon

$84.99
Save $24.94

Why we like it

“It may not be a Yeti, but the Coleman 316 Series cooler can fit over 100 cans inside and keep them on ice for up to five days. Its fully insulated lid and body can withstand temperatures as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while its heavy-duty design can support up to 250 pounds of weight on top. Translation: it doubles as a place to sit. Customers who bought and reviewed it on Amazon dub it “reliable and durable,” and honestly, what else could you want in a cooler? At $60.05, it’s nearly 30% off and down to an all-time low price for the Big Spring Sale.” — Christina Buff, Contributor

More outdoor deals

Fire pits, camping stoves, and grills

  • Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet portable tabletop gas grill — $89.64 $149.99 (save $60.35)

  • Solo Stove Pizza Oven Cart — $143.99 $179.99 (save $36)

  • Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet portable gas grill with VersaStand — $148.75 $199.99 (save $51.24)

  • Solo Stove Bonfire Grill Top + Hub — $179.99 $224.99 (save $45)

  • Solo Stove Bonfire Griddle + Hub — $179.99 $224.99 (save $45)

  • Solo Stove Bonfire Pi Fire pizza oven accessory — $207.99 $259.99 (save $52)

  • Cuisinart COH-800 Cleanburn smokeless 24-inch fire pit — $212.49 $299.99 (save $87.50)

  • Solo Stove Station — $299.99 $559.99 (save $260)

Tents, sleeping bags, and more camping gear

  • Intex 64763E Dura-Beam standard downy air mattress — $26.21 $42.99 (save $16.78)

  • Trekology collapsible trekking poles — $32.79 $65.99 (save $33.20)

  • Coleman Rainfly accessory for 6-person Instant Cabin— $33.20 $44.99 (save $11.79)

  • Coleman North Rim cold-weather sleeping bag — $63.35 $79.99 (save $16.64)

  • Coleman Sundome 4-person camping tent — $65.33 $89.99 (save $24.66)

  • Coleman Big Basin cold-weather sleeping bag — $66.03 $89.99 (save $23.96)

  • Coleman Instant Cabin 4-person camping tent — $87 $184.99 (save $97.99)

  • Coleman Montana 6-person family tent — $92.92 $169.99 (save $77.07)

  • Coleman Steel Creek Fast Pitch Dome 6-person tent — $156.21 $173.57 (save $17.36)

  • Sea Eagle inflatable kayak — $299 $399.99 (save $100.99)

Coolers

  • Igloo Maxcold packable 16-can tote cooler — $16.99 $19.99 (save $3)

  • Coleman Chiller Series 16-can insulated soft cooler — $21.12 $32.99 (save $11.87)

  • Igloo 90s Retro Collection lunch box cooler — $24.74 $29.99 (save $5.25)

  • Igloo 16-can softsided insulated cooler bags — $25.49 $29.99 (save $4.50)

  • Igloo Maxcold Gizmo 30-can backpack soft-sided cooler — $42.49 $49.99 (save $7.50)

  • Arctic Zone Titan deep freeze 60-can collapsible rolling cooler — $42.97 $79.99 (save $37.02)

  • Igloo Tag Along 11-quart cooler (teal) — $50.59 $59.99 (save $9.40)

  • Igloo Polar 120-quart cooler — $78.87 $89.99 (save $11.12)

  • Igloo BMX 72-quart cooler — $113.09 $169.99 (save $56.90)

Water bottles

  • Igloo 0.5-gallon Laguna Pro bottle — $12.34 $14.99 (save $2.65)

  • CamelBak Podium Chill insulated bike bottle — $12.90 $18 (save $5.10)

  • CamelBak Chute Mag 25-ounce insulated bottle— $14.90 $22.08 (save $7.18)

  • Igloo Sport Sipper 20-ounce stainless steel bottle — $16.80 $24.99 (save $8.19)

  • Igloo 0.5-gallon high performance sports jug — $17.51 $20.60 (save $3.09)

  • Igloo Flip ‘n’ Sip stainless steel tumbler — $20.31 $22.79 (save $2.48)

  • Hydro Flask 24-ounce stainless steel water bottle with Flex Cap — $28 $39.95 (save $11.95)

  • S’well 25-ounce stainless steel water bottle — $29.30 $45 (save $15.70)

  • LifeStraw Go Series 22-ounce plastic water filter bottle — $35.96 $44.95 (save $8.99)

Hydration backpacks

  • CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. kids hydration backpack — $28.48 $60 (save $31.52)

  • CamelBak Hydrobak 50-ounce light bike hydration backpack — $33.30 $65 (save $31.70)

  • Osprey Siskin 8L men’s biking backpack — $65.47 $119.95 (save $54.48)

  • CamelBak Chase 50-ounce bike vest — $66 $105 (save $39)

  • Osprey Dyna 6L women’s running hydration vest — $97.05 $130 (save $32.95)

  • Osprey Raven 14 women’s bike hydration backpack — $107.22 $164.95 (save $57.73)

Best Amazon Spring Sale solar eclipse glasses deals

“The next total solar eclipse is set to take place on Monday, April 8, and if you want to participate in collectively (and safely) staring at the sun together, you’re going to need a pair of solar eclipse glasses. We don’t recommend buying a pair all willy-nilly, though, because not all of them are legit, and we don’t want you burning your precious peepers. What you need to look out for are glasses that are specifically approved by the American Astronomical Society (AAS) and have an ISO 12312-2 safety rating. … Below, we’ve listed out all the options we could find that are on sale, so check them out and grab yourself a pair or two before they start selling out (they usually become pretty scarce in the weeks before an eclipse).” — Dylan Haas, Lead Shopping Reporter

  • American Paper Optics solar eclipse glasses (2-pack) — $4.92 $8.95 (save $4.03)

  • Healthoholic solar eclipse glasses (2-pack) — $5.99 $9.99 (save $4)

  • Eclipsee solar eclipse glasses (6-pack) — $6.97 $8.97 (save $2)

  • Medical King solar eclipse glasses (5-pack) — $7.59 $9.99 (save $2.40)

  • Gravitis solar eclipse glasses (2-pack) — $7.85 $11.55 (save $3.70)

  • Lunt Solar Systems solar eclipse glasses (10-pack) — $14.95 $16.98 (save $2.03)

  • SEIC plastic solar eclipse glasses (3-pack) — $15.99 $27.99 (save $12)

  • Eclipsee plastic solar eclipse glasses (2-pack) — $17.97 $24.99 (save $7.02)

  • Helioclipse solar eclipse glasses (12-pack) — $24.95 $36.95 (save $12)

  • Medical King plastic solar eclipse glasses (2-pack) — $24.99 $29.99 (save $5)

  • Medical King plastic solar eclipse glasses (6-pack) — $29.99 $39.99 (save $10)

Best Amazon Spring Sale gaming monitor deals

Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G9 Series monitor

Credit: Samsung

Samsung 49-inch Odyssey G9 Series

$799.99
at Amazon

$1,299.99
Save $500.00

Why we like it

This 49-inch Samsung monitor was already at a pretty impressive price with its $400 Big Spring Sale markdown, but the extra $100 off coupon helped push it to its lowest price ever, according to the price tracker camelcamelcamel. This ultra-wide curved behemoth isn’t for the casual gamers out there, but if you’ve been looking to deck out your gamer cave with a monitor the same width as a standard desk that also has a 240Hz refresh rate, this deal lets you do that for a hefty investment, but much less than the one the MSRP asks.

More gaming monitor deals

  • Samsung 23.5-inch CF396 curved monitor — $109.99 $139.99 (save $30)

  • Acer 23.8-inch Nitro KG241Y — $109.99 $172.99 (save $63)

  • ASUS 23.8-inch TUF Gaming VG247Q1A — $119 $159.99 (save $40.99)

  • Sceptre Curved 24.5-inch 240Hz gaming monitor — $124.97 $149.97 (save $20)

  • Samsung 27-inch Odyssey G32A — $153.88 $229.99 (save $76.11)

  • ASUS 27-inch TUF Gaming VG279QL3A — $189 $219 (save $30)

  • Acer 31.5-inch EI322QUR — $199.99 $294.99 (save $95)

  • Acer 29.5-inch Nitro XZ306C — $199.99 $349.99 (save $150)

  • Sceptre 30-inch IPS Monitor — $209.97 $249.97 (save $40)

  • ASUS 23.8-inch ROG Strix — $219 $299 (save $80)

  • ASUS 27-inch TUF Gaming VG27AQ — $247.49 $309 (save $61.51)

  • Dell 34-inch Curved Gaming Monitor — $329.99 $399.99 (save $70)

  • Alienware 34.18-inch AW3423DW Curved Gaming Monitor — $899.99 $1,099.99 (save $200)

Best Amazon Spring Sale printer deals

White wireless HP printer

Credit: HP

HP Envy Inspire 7958e Wireless Color All-in-One Printer

$109.99
at Amazon

$189.99
Save $80.00

Why we like it

“If you’re springing for a printer at home (or at your makeshift office) you want to be able to print, copy, scan, and even fax with ease. The HP Envy Inspire 7958e lets you do it all. It’s got mobile connectivity so you can easily print from your laptop or phone, two-sided printing so you waste less paper, and an advanced photo printer so you can print your favorite shots at home. It also comes with a free upgrade to HP+ that offers additional smart features and six months of HP Instant Ink (note that a monthly fee is charged if you don’t cancel before the six-month trial period is up).” — Jillian Anthony, Contributor

More printer deals

  • Canon PIXMA TR7020a All-in-One Wireless Color Inkjet Printer — $89.99 $159.99 (save $70)

  • HP ENVY 6055e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer — $79.99 $129.99 (save $50)

  • HP DeskJet 4155e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer — $59.99 $99.99 (save $40)

  • Canon PIXMA TR7020a All-in-One Wireless Color Inkjet Printer — $89.99 $159.99 (save $70)

Best Amazon Spring Sale scanner deals

Gray scansnap scanner with a document in it

Credit: Scansnap

ScanSnap iX1600 scanner

$399.95
at Amazon

$554.00
Save $154.05

Why we like it

“If your line of work involves scanning things all day, every day, you need a speedy scanner that can handle all kinds of different documents. Mashable’s sister site PCMag, called the ScanSnap iX1600 “a model desktop document scanner” that includes a color touch screen for easy use, a 50-page automatic document feeder, and a hefty 6,000-scan daily duty cycle. It can easily recognize and organize everything from paperwork to receipts to business cards, making your life and work that much easier. Note that it does not have Ethernet capabilities.” — Jillian Anthony, Contributor

More of the best scanner deals:

  • Epson WorkForce ES-50 Portable Sheet-Fed Document Scanner — $89.99 $129.99 (save $40)

  • Brother ADS-1200 Compact Desktop Scanner — $159.99 $189.99 (save $30)

  • Brother DS-940DW Duplex and Wireless Compact Mobile Document Scanner — $189.99 $229.99 (save $40)

  • Canon imageFORMULA R40 Scanner — $289 $329 (save $40)

  • Epson FastFoto FF-680W Wireless High-Speed Photo and Document Scanning System — $499.99 $599.99 (save $100)

Best Amazon Spring Sale drone deals

Drone set with remote, carrying case, and drone

Credit: Holy Stone

Holy Stone HS720 GPS Drone with Camera

$149.94
at Amazon

$249.99
Save $100.05

$50 discount with on-page coupon

Why we like it

The Holy Stone HS720 is the best drone deal for most people, and with the on-page coupon, it’s on sale for 40% off. It has a 4K camera with image stabilization so you can send it flying up to 3,000 feet in the air and know you’ll get great footage. You’ll score GPS-assisted flight, so you always know where it is, and it’ll fly back to you automatically when the battery gets low. This drone comes with two batteries with 26 minutes of run time on each, and is controlled easily with the included FAA-compliant remote.

More of the best drone deals:

  • Holy Stone HS440 Foldable FPV Drone — $54.49 $129.99 (save $75.50 with on-page coupon)

  • Holy Stone HS440D Drone — $99.99 $169.99 (save $70)

  • Holy Stone HS720E Drone — $194.99 $299.99 (save $105)

  • Bwine F7 GPS Drone — $370.99 $529.99 (save $159)

Best Amazon Spring Sale Prime-exclusive deals

Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde TP09

Credit: Dyson

Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde TP09

$599.99
at Amazon

$749.99
Save $150.00

Why we like it

“Spring allergy season has arrived and if you’re tired of constantly having the sniffles, the Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde TP09 could provide relief. The fully-sealed HEPA filter is designed to capture 99.97 percent of particles that measure 0.3 microns in size, including pollen, dust, and gases. Dyson excels when it comes to fan design and this model is no different. It uses Dyson’s Air Multiplier technology to circulate the air, pulling in air from across the room for filtration. Plus, having a powerful fan around as the summer months arrive is certainly a great idea.” — Lauren Allain, Contributor

More Prime-exclusive deals

  • Rubbermaid 60-piece food storage containers with lids — $35.99 $44.99 (save $9)

  • Amazfit GTR 2e (slate grey) — $49.99 $119.99 (save $70)

  • American Tourister Stratum XLT expandable hard-side luggage — $77.65 $149.99 (save $72.34)

  • Bissell Pet Stain Eraser PowerBrush — $83.95 $133.89 (save $49.94)

  • Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (32 GB) — $159.99 $189.99 (save $30)

  • Oster 10-in-1 air fryer oven — $159.99 $199.99 (save $40)

  • Eufy L60 robot vacuum with self-emptying — $299.99 $399.99 (save $100)

  • Amazon 50-inch Omni Series 4K Fire TV — $299.99 $479.99 (save $180)

How to sign up for Amazon Prime

The Big Spring Sale is open to Prime members and non-members alike, but a handful of deals are exclusive to the former (see above). If you haven’t subscribed to Prime within the past 12 months, you can sign up for a free 14-day trial at amazon.com/prime. After that trial ends, you’ll be bumped to a paid membership plan for $14.99 per month or $139 per year.

the amazon prime logo

Credit: Amazon

Amazon Prime


Free 14-day trial, then $14.99/month or $139/year

NYT’s The Mini crossword answers for March 24

Closeup view of crossword puzzle clues

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:

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for March 23

SEE ALSO:

Wordle today: Here’s the answer and hints for March 24

Here are the clues and answers to NYT’s The Mini for Sunday, March 24, 2024:

Across

Stephen A. Smith’s channel

  • The answer is ESPN.

Las Vegas thoroughfare, with “the”

  • The answer is Strip.

Valuable substance in the world of “Dune”

  • The answer is Spice.

Fashion designer Marc

  • The answer is Ecko.

High schooler

  • The answer is Teen.

Whirl of water

  • The answer is Eddy.

Down

Suffix with priest or count

The answer is Ess.

The insidious proliferation of modern marketing

  • The answer is Ad Creep.

Neighboring city of Tampa, informally

  • The answer is St Pete.

Put a cost on

  • The answer is Priced.

Scratched … or a coin with a “small change”?

  • The answer is Nicked.

Garden flower … or a coin with a “small change”?

  • The answer is Peon.

Sandworms and solar eclipses: 5 things we learned from ‘The Art and Soul of ‘Dune: Part Two”

Paul Atreides in a Fremen stillsuit.

Have you seen Dune: Part Two multiple times? Do you spend your free moments obsessing over every little detail from Denis Villeneuve’s latest sci-fi epic? Then The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two, a behind-the-scenes look at the film from Insight Editions, will be right up your alley.

SEE ALSO:

‘Dune: Part Two’ review: Denis Villeneuve’s sci-fi masterpiece soars, then screams to a halt

Written by Dune producer Tanya Lapointe and Stefanie Broos, The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two dives headfirst into the making of the film. Gorgeous spreads of concept art and photography abound, as well as interviewers with the craftspeople who brought the planets of Arrakis, Giedi Prime, and more to life. Not only will you get to bask in the visual splendor of Dune: Part Two, but you’ll learn a lot more about the movie as well. I’ve laid out five of my favorite tidbits from The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two below, but there are so, so many more where these came from.

"The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two" book.

Credit: Insight Editions

“The Art and Soul of ‘Dune: Part Two'”

1. Dune: Part Two features a real-life eclipse.

Paul Atreides walking through the desert in a cloak and stillsuit.

Timothée Chalamet in “Dune: Part Two.”
Credit: Niko Tavernise

Dune: Part Two‘s opening fight scene between the Fremen and Harkonnen soldiers takes place during a solar eclipse, making for some instantly memorable orange-tinted visuals courtesy of cinematographer Greig Fraser. In an exciting twist of fate, the cast and crew of Dune: Part Two witnessed an actual partial solar eclipse on October 25, 2022. The camera crew was able to capture footage of the eclipse, which wound up in the final cut of the film. To stay true to the lore that Arrakis has two moons, visual effects supervisor Paul Lambert and his team added a second moon to the eclipse footage.

SEE ALSO:

How to watch ‘Dune’ at home: Where is ‘Part One’ streaming?

2. Inspiration for Harkonnen architecture came from unique places — including septic tanks.

Lady Fenring walks through a dark hallway.

Léa Seydoux in “Dune: Part Two.”
Credit: Niko Tavernise

In my review of Dune: Part Two, I praised the Harkonnens’ insectoid architecture as one of the visual highlights of the film. The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two confirms the insect inspirations when it comes to all things Harkonnen, but it also singles out one of production designer Patrice Vermette’s most surprising points of reference: septic tanks. “Black, shiny, and new,” Vermette tells Villeneuve.

SEE ALSO:

Fan who has seen ‘Dune: Part Two’ 10 times breaks his silence

The septic tank is just one of many fascinating references for the design teams discussed in the book. Others include the Sardaukar’s Excalibur-inspired swords and the Harkonnens’ inkblot-esque “negative fireworks.”

3. The baby sandworm was a practical effect.

Three sandworms barrel towards an army of humans.

The sandworms descend on the Sardaukar in “Dune: Part Two.”
Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two contains no shortage of sandworm goodness, including a pages-long discussion of how the film brought Paul’s first worm ride to life. Also of note is the section on the baby worm that lives in the Southern Fremen’s Maker’s Temple. While a CG worm was a possibility, Dune: Part Two ended up using practical effects, including a worm puppet.

SEE ALSO:

Denis Villeneuve breaks down the evolution of sandworms in ‘Dune: Part Two’

According to The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two, the shot of the baby worm moving through the sand was the biggest challenge for the film’s special effects team. They built the worm out of eight balls connected by a chain, then ran it under the sand on two sets of tracks — one for its circular movements, one for its straight path towards the Maker Keeper (Alison Halstead).

4. Feyd-Rautha’s gladiator fight was partly inspired by bullfighting.

Feyd-Rautha in the Harkonnen fighting pits.

Austin Butler in “Dune: Part Two.”
Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

My favorite side characters in Dune: Part Two are the black-clothed Harkonnen servants with distinct curved headdresses who assist Feyd-Rautha (Austin Butler) in the fighting arena on Giedi Prime. They have their roots in Frank Herbert’s Dune as Feyd’s barb-men, but Lapointe and Broos write that Villeneuve specifically wanted picador silhouettes for these characters, “just like in bullfighting.”

SEE ALSO:

Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen is the most fun part of any ‘Dune’ movie he’s in

The bullfighting imagery enhances the showmanship and cruelty of the Harkonnens’ war games, with the remaining House Atreides fighter Lanville (Roger Yuan) taking on the role of a doomed bull. It also ties back to House Atreides’ deeper connection to bullfighting. As discussed in the first Dune, Paul’s (Timothée Chalamet) grandfather fought bulls for sport, even dying in a bullfight. Later, Duke Leto (Oscar Isaac) walks into a treacherous “arena” of his own on Arrakis, and Paul will take on a dangerous, unpredictable enemy in his duel with Feyd. It seems the Atreides can never fully escape bullfighting, even if it’s just in the metaphorical sense.

5. Which deleted scenes didn’t make it into Dune: Part Two?

Paul Atreides and Chani embrace in the desert.

Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya in “Dune: Part Two.”
Credit: Niko Tavernise

Villeneuve has said he won’t release any deleted scenes from Dune: Part Two, which include sequences featuring Stephen McKinley Henderson’s Thufir Hawat as well as Tim Blake Nelson in an undisclosed role (which some speculate was Count Fenring). The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two also hints at other moments that were cut from the final film.

One such moment came after the funereal ceremony for Jamis (Babs Olusanmokun), during which the Fremen take the water from his body. In an early version of the scene, Lapointe and Broos write, Paul receives water rings representing Jamis’ water — a key part of Fremen culture in the novel. The Art and Soul of Dune: Part Two also showcases artwork of the water rings, along with other props used in the ceremony.

Dune: Part Two is now in theaters.

Tilda Swinton and Julio Torres reveal ‘Problemista’s unexpected common ground

 Julio Torres and Tilda Swinton co-star in

In Problemista, Tilda Swinton and Julio Torres costar in the latter’s directorial debut as a pair of unlikely friends experiencing very different sides of New York’s perilous power dynamic. As a long-established and feared art critic — and a rich white woman to boot — Elizabeth wields a great deal of status and privilege along with, as Swinton puts it, “the mighty sword of complaint.” But as a newcomer to New York who’s struggling to secure an immigration visa, Salvadoran toy designer Alejandro sheepishly trots through an obstacle course of poverty, squalor, and easily bruised egos. Despite their differences, they have an undeniable connection. 

When Mashable sat down with Swinton and Torres over Zoom, we not only talked trash but also dug into the central bond between Elizabeth and Alejandro. The leading lady and the writer/director/actor offered insights into the backstories that bind them, as well as how RZA’s eccentric painter Bobby fits into their dynamic. 

Julio Torres shares the secrets of Problemista‘s misfits. 

RZA and Tilda Swinton in "Problemista."

RZA and Tilda Swinton in “Problemista.”
Credit: A24

This outstanding A24 comedy depicts New York City of a place made up of big dreams and crushing disappointments. Street corners are piled with trash and treasures, and every character can be both a savior and a literal beast. Yet within this, there’s an optimism in how two misfits find each other. 

Striving to get a fellowship with Hasbro toys, Alejandro (Torres) is scraping by on survival jobs to maintain his work visa. While working at a shabby cryogenics lab, he meets the fiery wife (Swinton) of a frozen artist (RZA), who offers him a path to sponsorship. While Elizabeth jabbers endlessly and has unlimited demands, she dazzles Alejandro with the command she takes over every situation, from ordering a salad to dictating the layout of a gallery show for her frosty beloved. And in return she, in her own intense way, takes him under her wing. 

Torres spoke to their connection, saying, “They are both outsiders in that sense. I think that this is a movie that is about ‘the other.’ And I think that Alejandro is an outsider. Elizabeth is an outsider. Bobby’s an outsider. So it makes sense that Bobby and Elizabeth attracted each other.” In the film, Alejandro is trying to break into the toy-making industry. Elizabeth has been ostracized from the art community, seemingly for her aggressiveness and single-minded devotion to Bobby’s paintings, which focus solely on unhatched eggs. And in turn, Bobby felt so outside the art scene that he froze himself, hoping to find a future where his work would be better appreciated. 

“They’re just desperately trying to find a way in,” Torres said of the trio. “Alejandro is trying to very quietly and very politely make his way in. Elizabeth has resolved to bulldoze her way in. And they both really have a lot to learn from each other. And that is what’s at the heart of the movie, is just this idea of sort of seeing another other and just sort of understanding each other, even though their experiences are so — on paper — so, so radically different.” 

Torres explained, “This is why the character of Bobby, he’s sort of at the nucleus of the film. Because his whole thing is being in the fringes of the art world, right? Like, never being fully let in. He’s literally living in a commune where they won’t even show his paintings.” 

Detailing the part Bobby has to play in his situation, Torres added, “It’s sort of circumstantial, but it’s also a little voluntary, because he refuses to paint anything that isn’t eggs. And he’s an outsider, but he’s proud of it. He wants to make his way in by virtue of being an outsider, by virtue of being different. And Alejandro was motivated by that. Elizabeth sees herself in that. So, in the movie, everyone is sort of like drowning and gasping for air. And in this movie, they sort of like see each other and sort of like gain empathy for each other.” 

Tilda Swinton on the background of her hydra. 

In the shared interview, Swinton concurred with Torres, noting of Elizabeth and Alejandro and Bobby, “They’re in these similar predicaments. They have these dreams! And they’re really fueled by their dreams. And I think the film is very compassionate about that. You know, we’re not for one instant sneering at any of these people for having these dreams.”

She went onto to detail how the trio handles being an outsider in different ways. “Bobby is a victim. He’s just decided to be a victim,” Swinton explained. “And Elizabeth wields the mighty sword of complaint. She just complains about everything, about everything. She’s just on that setting. And the thing that’s magical is that it looks like that’s not working for her for the longest time.” 

Easing into a discussion of the film’s final act, in which Alejandro learns to take a cue from Elizabeth’s approach to get what he really wants, Swinton continued, “Then — not to spoil anything — we learn the value of that [complaining]. And I find that still very, very moving that that’s not a position that she’s taken lightly.”

Expanding on how Elizabeth becomes a mentor of sorts to Alejandro, Swinton continued, “She teaches a little — both actively but also by osmosis — Alejandro, to adopt it and to work it, but to his advantage. And of the three of them, he prevails because he has his dreams, but his position is not to be a victim, not to wield the mighty sword of complaint, but to observe. And to just keep dreaming somehow, but to have this sort of slightly exterior position. Then there’s a bit of mix and match.” 

Swinton and Torres reveal Elizabeth’s unspoken origins. 

Tilda Swinton and Julio Torres with "Blue Egg on Yellow Satin" in "Problemista."

Tilda Swinton and Julio Torres with “Blue Egg on Yellow Satin” in “Problemista.”
Credit: A24

Beyond being a pair of outsiders with big artistic dreams, Elizabeth and Alejandro have a similarity in their backstories that’s not explicitly explored in Problemista. In discussing the film’s costuming, Torres shared not only how Elizabeth’s wardrobe hints at her dragon-like nature, but also to who she was before she met Bobby. 

“[Her outfits] also allow you to imagine her younger,” Torres said, “[In creating the character,] Tilda and I were talking like, ‘Oh, she feels like she was a groupie of some band at some point.’ So, it is a lot of really tight black leather pants that she wears. It really gives her such a backstory because you imagine like, when did she get these pants?” 

For Swinton, who picked Elizabeth’s precise English accent because it got a laugh out of Torres, the clothes helped shape an arc for her character outside of the film. “All the leather and the sort of slight rock ‘n’ roll pose,” Swinton noted before explaining, “If you want some justification or some idea of a backstory, my idea was that she had been a girl at the Glastonbury Music Festival. And she was a groupie of some American band. And she sort of fallen in with some rock star, and [followed him] back to America, and then sort of broken up with him, and then sort of drifted into the art world.”

From there, Swinton drew influence from the New York art scene, pulling from the downtown fashions costumer Catherine George curated for Elizabeth, but also the “the frostiness, the sort of slight patchouli dreamcatcher element” that she found “not far away from even the uptown New York art scene, actually. The dreamcatcher and the upscale art scene — they’re not divided by much.” Swinton would know, having famously taken part in a performance art installation at MOMA in which she slept on display in a glass box. 

Yet Swinton connected with Elizabeth on another level, in her appreciation for Bobby’s art. Asked if there was a bit of the costuming or production design she had taken from the set, Swinton said no. But she added, “I did hint rather too gently that I had my eyes on [the painting] Blue Egg on Yellow Satin. Maybe one day [I’ll get it.] There is a sort of gap on one of my walls that it would fit very nicely.” 

Problemista is now in theaters nationwide. 

Study Microsoft Excel basics in this $50 bundle

Woman using Excel

TL;DR: As of March 24, if you want to learn how to use Excel for automation, data analysis, and more, you can study the basics in the Complete Excel, VBA, and Data Science Certification Training Bundle while it’s only $49.99 (reg. $429).


If you’re in the working world, odds are you’ve run into Microsoft Excel. This app may be common, but that definitely doesn’t mean it’s easy to master. Even if you’ve used it, there might be features you’re missing out on, but you don’t have to hunt through the menu or sleuth out the meaning behind every function and macro you can make. 

Instead, you can study the basics in the Complete Excel, VBA, and Data Science bundle. It won’t make you an Excel master overnight, but this bundle does have 52 hours of video lectures that you can check to find the skills you need to familiarize yourself with for work, school, or research, and it’s only $49.99. 

Become an Excel-lent student

If you’ve never used Excel, don’t worry. This course starts at the beginning with a six-lesson intro to the absolute basics. If you’ve already used Excel a little, no need to go over repeat material. These courses aren’t linear, so you can jump into whatever’s most useful. 

If you want to learn about automating basic tasks, check out any of the VBA courses. There are beginner and intermediate options, but both cover a lot of material. Need to turn all those numbers into gorgeous graphs and enchanting charts? Time to join Excel Charts and Visualization. 

Sitting at a crossroads and can’t decide what to learn next? Cross that function junction with a mastery course taught by pros from Mammoth Interactive. And once you have the core concepts down, you can join courses that put your Excel skills to work with finances, pivot tables, and machine learning. 

Make Excel your new favorite app

Once you have the basics down, you could use Excel to automate repetitive parts of your job, analyze complex data, and more. 

For a limited time, the Complete Excel, VBA, and Data Science bundle is on sale for $49.99. 

StackSocial prices subject to change. 

Excel certification graphic

Credit: rawpixel.com via Freepik

The Complete Excel, VBA, and Data Science Certification Training Bundle

$49.99
at the Mashable Shop

$429.00
Save $379.01