NYT Connections August 22, 2025 Hints and Answers

Understanding the Popularity of Connections

Connections, a game developed by The New York Times Games, has become a hit among puzzle enthusiasts. Known for its unique approach to word-based challenges, it stands out from other games like Wordle and the crossword. Unlike traditional puzzles, Connections requires players to group words into coherent categories, making it both challenging and engaging. The game’s appeal lies in its ability to test cognitive skills while offering a quick and flexible gameplay experience that fits into daily routines.

Players can enjoy Connections during moments of downtime, whether they are working at their desks, exercising on a treadmill, or waiting for a flight. This convenience has contributed to its widespread popularity. Additionally, the satisfaction of solving a particularly difficult puzzle and sharing results with friends adds to the game's addictive nature.

How to Play Connections

The premise of Connections is straightforward: players are presented with 16 unsorted words and must group them into four categories of four. These categories can be based on various connections, such as shared themes, associations, or even specific patterns in word structure. The challenge comes from the fact that the categories are often not immediately obvious, requiring players to think creatively and critically.

Each grouping is assigned a color—yellow, green, blue, and purple—with yellow being the easiest and purple the most challenging. However, this hierarchy isn't always consistent, as some players may find certain categories easier based on their personal knowledge or interests.

One of the key features of Connections is the feedback system. After selecting four words, the game will inform players if they are just one word away from completing a category. This feature helps guide players through the puzzle without giving away the answers entirely.

Tips for Mastering Connections

To improve your performance in Connections, consider the following strategies:

• Look for common traits: Identify groups of four words that share similar characteristics or themes. This can help you form accurate categories more quickly.
• Use the "one away" hint: If three of your selected words are correct, the game will let you know you're close to completing a category. This can be a valuable tool when you're stuck.
• Be mindful of spelling: Some words may be grouped together based on how they are spelled, so pay attention to the structure of each word.
• Avoid premature guesses: Don’t rush to submit your first set of four words. Take time to evaluate all possibilities before making a choice.
• Shuffle the board: Rearranging the placement of words can sometimes reveal new connections that weren’t apparent before.

If you're struggling to solve a particular puzzle, it's helpful to look for hints that provide clues about the categories. For example, today’s puzzle included themes such as U.S. Presidents, actors whose last names are verbs, types of poker, and proper nouns after gerunds in 90s movie titles.

Today’s Connections Hints and Answers

For those who need additional guidance, here are some specific hints for today’s puzzle:

• U.S. Presidents: Look for names like Adams, Ford, Grant, and Washington.
• Actors with Last Names That Are Also Verbs: Consider names like Chevy Chase, Christoph Waltz, Geoffrey Rush, and Tom Cruise.
• Kinds of Poker: Think of terms like Draw, Omaha, Strip, and Stud.
• Proper Nouns After Gerunds in '90s Movie Titles: Examples include Amy, John Malkovich, Las Vegas, and Private Ryan.

If you’re still having difficulty, the full answers for today’s puzzle are as follows:

• U.S. Presidents: Adams, Ford, Grant, Washington
• Actors with Last Names That Are Also Verbs: Chevy Chase, Christoph Waltz, Geoffrey Rush, Tom Cruise
• Kinds of Poker: Draw, Omaha, Strip, Stud
• Proper Nouns After Gerunds in '90s Movie Titles: Amy, John Malkovich, Las Vegas, Private Ryan

Remember, the puzzle changes daily, so even if you struggle with today’s version, there will be a new challenge tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When does the puzzle change? The Connections puzzle updates daily at midnight local time.
• Do I need a subscription to play? No, you can access the game directly on the NY Times Connections page without any sign-up or subscription required.
• Can I play previous games? Subscribers can access past puzzles in the archive, providing plenty of content for those looking to practice.

Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, Connections offers a fun and intellectually stimulating experience that continues to captivate puzzle lovers around the world.

DJI Mini Pilot: Excited for the DJI Mini 5 Pro, But One Thing Holds Me Back

The Future of the DJI Mini Series

I don’t upgrade my camera technology every time a new product is released. For example, I still have a DJI Mini 2 in my camera bag, and it continues to serve me well. However, there are some features that have made me seriously consider an upgrade. The rumors surrounding the DJI Mini 5 Pro have caught my attention, especially with the potential improvements that could be coming.

Although DJI has not officially announced any details about a successor to the Mini 4 Pro, FCC filings and leaked images have generated a lot of excitement about what might be in store for the Mini lineup. One of the most intriguing rumors is that the DJI Mini 5 Pro could feature a larger one-inch sensor. If this is true, it would represent a significant leap forward for the Mini series, which currently weighs under 250g.

This weight limit is crucial because it allows the drone to fly without needing registration in the United States. This exemption from registration is one of the main advantages of the Mini series. Additionally, under Part 107 regulations in the US, drones weighing less than .55 pounds can fly over crowds of people, provided they have propeller guards. While propeller guards would increase the weight beyond the threshold, the ability to operate in such environments is a major benefit.

Smaller drones also offer practical advantages when it comes to travel. Many countries, including Canada and the UK, have fewer restrictions on drones under 250g, making them easier to carry around. A drone that remains under this weight limit but includes a larger camera would be a game-changer for the Mini series.

The Mini series has long been a popular choice for both beginners and experienced users looking for an affordable option. With enhancements like improved wind resistance, better cold weather performance, longer battery life, and advanced obstacle detection, the Mini 4 Pro has already made significant strides. Adding a one-inch sensor would take these improvements even further, potentially offering higher quality images and videos from a compact device.

However, there’s a major hurdle that could prevent me from upgrading, regardless of how much I save up. As a US-based drone pilot, I may not be able to purchase the DJI Mini 5 Pro at all. DJI has stated that a “customs misunderstanding” has led to delays in shipping new drones to the US. This issue has resulted in a lack of availability on DJI’s US webstore, with many retailers either out of stock or charging higher prices due to limited supply.

DJI’s recent models, such as the Mavic 4 Pro, have yet to be launched in the US. Given the current situation, it seems unlikely that the availability of DJI drones will improve soon. This uncertainty has led me to explore alternative options, such as driving to Canada to buy a drone. While this might be cheaper in some cases, the added travel costs and the ambiguity around customs make it a risky proposition.

The rumors surrounding the DJI Mini 5 Pro have definitely made me want to upgrade my drone, but I suspect I won’t be able to do so in the US anytime soon. The situation highlights the challenges faced by drone enthusiasts who rely on DJI products.

If you’re looking for alternatives, there are several options available. You can explore the best camera drones or look into other brands if you're unable to purchase a DJI drone. These choices can provide similar performance and features while avoiding the current supply issues.

Software stocks struggle as AI takes the spotlight

The Tech Sector Faces Unprecedented Challenges from AI

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is reshaping the technology landscape, and while tech companies are at the forefront of developing AI tools, they are now experiencing significant challenges. The rise of AI technologies capable of writing and developing code has introduced a new level of uncertainty for the software industry, prompting concerns about the future of traditional business models.

One of the most notable areas affected by this shift is the Software as a Service (SaaS) model, which has long been a cornerstone of the tech industry. SaaS companies rely on subscription-based revenue, but the emergence of "agentic AI" — AI systems that can operate independently — is threatening to disrupt this model. These AI tools are becoming increasingly adept at coding, potentially allowing businesses to develop their own software without relying on third-party providers.

This disruption has led to declining stock performance for several major software companies. Salesforce (CRM), for example, has seen its shares drop by 26% this year, making it one of the worst-performing stocks in the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Adobe (ADBE) and Atlassian (TEAM) have also experienced significant declines, with shares down by 19% and 30%, respectively. In contrast, the broader market has shown resilience, with the S&P 500 up 10% and the Nasdaq Composite rising 11%.

Analysts suggest that the pressure on software valuations stems from the growing narrative that AI could render traditional software obsolete. Matthew Hedberg, a software research analyst at RBC Capital Markets, noted that this narrative is likely to drive continued volatility in the short term.

A Paradigm Shift in Technology

Ted Mortonson, a technology strategist at Baird, highlights that the market is currently grappling with a fundamental shift in how software and technology are being developed and utilized. Traditional SaaS companies, once favored by investors, are now facing the risk of losing relevance as AI continues to evolve and improve its coding capabilities.

Mortonson explained that the concept of "vibe coding" — where AI tools can autonomously write and develop code — poses a direct threat to the SaaS model. If companies can create their own software using these tools, they may no longer need to rent applications from established firms, leading to a decline in seat counts and subscriptions.

The speed of this transformation has caught many by surprise. Analysts note that while some companies may have anticipated the shift, few expected it to happen so quickly. Dan Ives, global head of technology research at Wedbush Securities, emphasized that Adobe and Salesforce, among others, underestimated the pace of the AI revolution.

AI’s Growing Influence

The idea that “software is eating the world” was popularized by venture capitalist Marc Andreessen in 2011. However, Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, added a twist in 2017, stating that “AI is eating software.” This sentiment is gaining traction as more analysts recognize the transformative power of AI in the tech sector.

Ben Reitzes, head of tech research at Melius Research, believes that Huang’s prediction is proving true. He argues that AI is enabling startups and large cloud providers to develop applications that can compete effectively with traditional software companies. This trend is reminiscent of how cloud computing disrupted the dominance of hardware companies like Dell.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, recently highlighted the fast-paced nature of this transformation, suggesting that the SaaS industry is entering a “fast fashion era.” This implies that software solutions will be developed and replaced at an accelerated rate, further challenging the sustainability of traditional business models.

Competition from Big Tech

In addition to AI-driven disruptions, software companies are also facing increased competition from big tech giants. Microsoft (MSFT) and Oracle (ORCL) are expanding their AI capabilities, positioning themselves as strong contenders in the evolving market.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has acknowledged the shift, noting that AI is driving a fundamental change in the business applications market. As customers move away from legacy systems toward agentic business applications, traditional software companies must adapt to remain relevant.

Despite these challenges, some analysts believe that the impact of AI on the software industry is not yet clear-cut. Angelo Zino, a tech analyst at CFRA Research, suggests that while there are concerns, it remains uncertain whether AI will fully replace traditional software. He points out that companies like Salesforce have already begun developing their own AI tools, such as “agentforce,” to stay competitive.

Uncertainty and Potential for Recovery

Wall Street remains divided on whether AI will ultimately replace SaaS or simply reshape it. While software company shares have declined this year, some analysts believe the market is overreacting. Brent Thill, an equity analyst at Jefferies, argues that AI is a transformational force rather than a destructive one for the software industry.

Thill notes that while there are headwinds, he believes software companies will eventually rebound and find ways to monetize their offerings within the AI ecosystem. He also points out that some of the limitations of current AI tools, such as "vibe coding," may prevent them from fully replacing human-developed software.

Ross Mayfield, an investment strategist at Baird, emphasizes the unpredictable nature of the AI market. He notes that the landscape can change rapidly, citing the recent impact of Chinese startup DeepSeek as an example. With so much uncertainty, investors must remain cautious and adaptable.

As the tech sector navigates this new era, the role of AI in shaping the future of software remains a topic of intense debate. While challenges abound, opportunities for innovation and adaptation continue to emerge.

HKGAI and FLock.io Team Up to Boost Decentralized AI for Smarter Government

Strategic Partnership Between HKGAI and FLock.io to Revolutionise Government AI

In a significant move towards the future of artificial intelligence, the Hong Kong Generative AI Research and Development Centre (HKGAI) has formed a strategic partnership with FLock.io, an innovator in decentralised AI infrastructure. This collaboration aims to enhance government and public sector efficiency by developing advanced, domain-specific AI models that are both secure and transparent.

The partnership leverages FLock.io’s cutting-edge federated learning technology, which allows institutions to collaboratively train AI models without compromising data privacy. This approach is particularly important as governments around the world increasingly focus on responsible AI use.

Key Components of the Partnership

Both HKGAI and FLock.io will contribute resources to this initiative. HKGAI will deploy specialised research teams and high-performance GPU clusters, while FLock.io will provide its pioneering decentralised AI training infrastructure. This synergy will enable secure multi-institution collaboration, ensuring that data privacy and security remain paramount.

Jiahao Sun, CEO of FLock.io, highlighted the significance of this alliance, stating, “This strategic alliance demonstrates powerful support for FLock.io’s unique federated learning protocol by one of Asia’s leading government-backed AI institutions.” He expressed excitement about introducing decentralised AI infrastructure into public sector operations, aiming to drive efficiency, innovation, and real-world impact.

Benefits of Decentralised AI

FLock.io’s approach allows institutions holding sensitive and isolated data to collaborate securely and compliantly. This capability is essential for governments looking to implement AI solutions that meet regulatory standards and protect citizen data.

The partnership also underscores the Hong Kong government's proactive commitment to pioneering decentralised AI solutions. Both HKGAI and FLock.io are exploring further integration opportunities and joint infrastructure initiatives, aiming to expand the reach and effectiveness of these groundbreaking models across broader governmental networks.

About HKGAI

Established in October 2023 under the Hong Kong government’s InnoHK initiative, HKGAI serves as the city’s flagship for generative AI innovation. Led by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), HKGAI collaborates with renowned local and international institutions to develop foundational AI models and transformative applications.

In February 2025, HKGAI introduced its inaugural large-scale generative AI model, HKGAI V1, marking a significant milestone in Hong Kong’s growing AI ecosystem.

About FLock.io

FLock.io is a pioneering decentralised AI training platform that combines Federated Learning and blockchain technology. Its secure, privacy-centric platform empowers communities to collaboratively build, train, and own AI models without centralising data.

The FLock.io ecosystem comprises three key components:

• AI Arena: A competitive AI model training platform.
• FL Alliance: A privacy-preserving collaborative framework safeguarding data sovereignty.
• Moonbase: A decentralised AI model hosting and refinement platform that rewards contributors and supports ecosystem growth.

FLock.io emphasizes that “Not Your Models, Not Your AI,” allowing users to learn more at FLock.io.

Expanding the Reach of AI Solutions

As the partnership between HKGAI and FLock.io continues to evolve, it sets a precedent for how governments can harness the power of decentralised AI. By focusing on secure, transparent, and efficient solutions, this collaboration paves the way for a new era of public sector transformation.

With ongoing efforts to explore further integration opportunities, the potential for these innovative models to impact governance and public services is vast. The collaboration not only highlights the importance of responsible AI use but also showcases the benefits of leveraging advanced technologies to address complex challenges.

Scientists Create Revolutionary Material Set to Reshape Plastic Production

A New Approach to Plastic Production

Plastic has become one of the most significant environmental challenges of our time. However, a groundbreaking scientific discovery may offer a promising solution by capturing carbon dioxide from the air and using it to create plastic. This innovative approach could drastically reduce the environmental impact of the plastic industry.

A team of researchers from Caltech recently published their findings, revealing that carbon dioxide can be transformed into useful chemical compounds like ethylene and carbon monoxide using renewable electricity. These compounds serve as building blocks for creating plastics known as polyketones. These materials are strong and durable, making them suitable for various applications such as adhesives, car parts, and piping.

While the process still requires refinement and extensive testing before it can be widely implemented, the initial results have sparked excitement among scientists. The potential to convert harmful greenhouse gases into valuable products is a game-changer in the fight against climate change.

Theo Agapie, a Caltech professor of chemistry, expressed his enthusiasm about the research, stating, "With our new work, we have taken a significant step in that direction." He believes society would be interested in such an innovation.

The Scale of Plastic Production and Its Impact

Each year, over 430 million tons of plastic are produced globally, with a significant portion discarded after a single use. This waste often breaks down into microplastics, which are now found in every corner of the planet—from our oceans to our food and water, even in human brains. These tiny particles pose serious health and environmental risks.

In addition to the issue of plastic waste, the production of plastic itself contributes to environmental problems. The burning of fossil fuels required to manufacture plastic releases large amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, leading to rapid global warming. As plastic production continues to rise, so does its environmental impact.

According to the Center for International Environmental Law, plastic's greenhouse gas emissions could surpass 56 billion tons by 2050. This alarming projection underscores the urgency of finding sustainable alternatives.

A Potential Solution

This Caltech research offers a potential solution by focusing on creating ethylene from carbon dioxide instead of traditional petroleum-based sources. Many scientists have explored ways to make plastic production cleaner, but this method represents a novel approach.

Max Zhelyabovskiy, a researcher involved in the project, emphasized the importance of demonstrating that this transformation is possible. He believes that showcasing this capability could inspire further research and development in the field.

Public Perception and the Future

Public opinion on plastic usage varies. Some believe Americans use too much plastic, while others think it's only an issue in certain states. Others feel the country is improving, and some argue that current practices are sufficient.

Regardless of individual perspectives, the need for sustainable solutions is clear. Innovations like those developed at Caltech could play a crucial role in shaping a more environmentally friendly future.

For those interested in staying informed about the latest developments, joining a free newsletter can provide weekly updates on innovations that improve lives and shape the future. Subscribers can also explore easy ways to help themselves while contributing to environmental sustainability.

This breakthrough in plastic production highlights the importance of scientific research in addressing global challenges. It serves as a reminder that with creativity and determination, we can find solutions to some of the most pressing issues facing our planet.

I Boost NotebookLM Mind Maps with This Chrome Extension

Enhancing NotebookLM Mind Maps with a Powerful Chrome Extension

When dealing with multiple documents, whether for work or studying, it can be challenging to keep track of all the connections between different pieces of information. A single key point might be buried in one document, while another document contains related ideas. This complexity can make it difficult to see the bigger picture.

As AI continues to play a more significant role in our daily lives, I've found that tasks like connecting ideas across documents are ideal for AI assistance. NotebookLM's Mind Map feature, which was introduced earlier this year, is designed to help users visualize and connect their thoughts. However, since its launch, the feature has remained largely unchanged, offering the same functionality as when it first debuted.

Thankfully, there’s a solution that takes NotebookLM’s Mind Maps to the next level. A Chrome extension called the NotebookLM Mindmap Extractor has emerged as a valuable tool for enhancing the experience beyond what NotebookLM offers.

Exporting Mind Maps with Ease

While there are numerous Chrome extensions available for NotebookLM, many focus on bulk adding sources to notebooks. These tools are undoubtedly useful, especially for users who frequently add content. However, I was looking for something that could enhance my experience beyond just managing sources.

The NotebookLM Mindmap Extractor is still in its early stages but offers a unique feature that NotebookLM lacks: exporting mind maps. While NotebookLM does provide a download button, it only allows users to save maps as PNG images, which are static and not easily editable. The extension changes this by enabling exports in multiple formats, including FreeMind (.mm), Generic XML (.xml), and OPML (.opml) files.

Once the extension is installed and a mind map is fully expanded within a NotebookLM notebook, users simply click the extension icon and select the "Detect Mind Map" button. The extension processes the map quickly and allows users to export it in their preferred format. The developer recommends using the FreeMind format for the best results.

Preview and Analysis Features

At the bottom of the pop-up, the extension displays a preview of the mind map structure along with a "Level Distribution" breakdown. This feature shows how many nodes exist at each level of the map, giving users a quick insight into the complexity of their diagram. The developer claims that all processing occurs locally in the browser, ensuring data privacy.

Expanding the Possibilities

After exporting a mind map, the possibilities are endless. The extension maintains the original structure of the map, allowing users to move it to other tools without losing formatting, hierarchy, or relationships between nodes. This is particularly useful for those who want to customize their maps further.

I personally import my exported mind maps into Xmind, a mind mapping software that allows full customization. With Xmind, I can change node colors, adjust text size, rearrange branches, and even convert the diagram into different layouts like fishbone or organizational charts. I also find it helpful to add new nodes during research. The reason I don’t create mind maps directly in Xmind is that NotebookLM provides AI-generated connections and summaries that I find invaluable.

Until NotebookLM introduces proper customization options, this workflow feels like the perfect solution. I get the benefit of AI-driven insights from NotebookLM and then refine and present the map exactly as I want in Xmind.

A Game-Changing Tool

If you love NotebookLM's Mind Maps, this extension is worth trying immediately. Initially, I didn’t expect much from it, as it promised to export mind maps as clean, editable files. However, after testing it myself, I realized how much easier it makes working with these maps. Viewing and interacting with the map inside NotebookLM is great, but having the flexibility to edit, reorganize, and share it outside the platform is a game-changer.

Hartford Tech Startup Thrives in Tough Insurance Market

A Journey of Resilience and Innovation

When their startup’s investors pulled out just before Christmas eight years ago, Luke Magnan and Mike Jones found themselves at a crossroads. With no external funding to rely on, the two insurance industry veterans made a bold decision to take a different approach. “We had to figure out what we were going to do, and we decided we’re going to try to do this a different way,” Magnan said. “Let’s see what we can do without any money, if we can sort of bootstrap this and make it happen.”

With decades of experience in the insurance sector, the pair launched their insurtech software firm in Hartford, naming it Combined Ratio Solutions after a key financial metric used to assess an insurer's profitability. Starting with a small team funded entirely by their own resources, they focused on creating a product that could address the pain points of the industry.

Over the past eight years, the company has grown significantly. The original core group of five has expanded to 200 employees, with about 30 working from the company’s headquarters at 190 Trumbull St. in downtown Hartford. Combined Ratio Solutions now offers updated software that helps property and casualty insurance companies manage their day-to-day operations, covering assets like homes and cars.

Challenging the Status Quo

Magnan believes that traditional software companies have not always aligned with what customers truly need. “There was a better way to go about it,” he said. The company’s website reflects this philosophy, using bright colors, bold fonts, and oversized all-caps headers to urge insurers to “join the revolution” against the clunky and overpriced software that dominates the industry. The team is described as “our rebels,” highlighting their commitment to innovation.

The company’s latest product is free, open-source software designed for policy administration, allowing insurance companies to assess risk information and determine coverage levels and pricing. “We’ve built a whole practice around implementing it and configuring it to really work for clients,” Magnan explained. “We're very excited. We think this is something that really is going to change the industry, and we’re aggressively growing around it.”

Choosing Hartford as a Home

Magnan, a native of Vernon, convinced his co-founder to locate the company in Hartford due to its concentration of insurance industry talent and expertise. Despite challenges with rising office vacancies in recent years, the city has proven to be a supportive environment for growth. “The local business owners on the hospitality side have certainly been an important part to our story,” Magnan said. The company aims to double its Hartford-based workforce in the next year and encourages new hires to live in the city.

“Bringing younger people from other geographies to live in Hartford has had pros and cons,” Magnan noted. “I think living in downtown Hartford now is better than it’s been in the past, and certainly a much different experience than people who maybe lived in other places. We have to appreciate that it will not be for everybody.”

Building a Community Around Insurtech

To reach the next level, Combined Ratio Solutions needs more support in connecting with large companies that once gave Hartford its title as the “Insurance Capital of the World,” Magnan said. “More companies could be doing what we’re doing, and we’d be happy to talk about that and building more of a community around insurance technology in the city.”

Susan Winkler, executive director of the MetroHartford Alliance’s insurance and financial services division, sees companies like Combined Ratio Solutions as a beacon of hope for the insurance sector in Hartford. While industry giants like Aetna have reduced their local workforces, efforts to build an ecosystem around insurance technology are gaining momentum. This includes organizations like InsurTech Hartford, which promotes networking and hosts events such as Hartford Innovation Week.

Stacey Brown, founder of InsurTech Hartford, noted that breaking into the insurtech industry is challenging due to the dominance of large, self-contained companies. “Combined Ratio is a bright spot,” Brown said. “Their target customers are not necessarily the big logos we see around town. They tend to go after the smaller, agile and more innovative companies in the industry.”

A Model for Future Entrepreneurs

Magnan hopes that Combined Ratio Solutions’ success story will inspire other entrepreneurs. “We own the company outright, and we’ve really been able to make our own decisions and grow the company,” he said. “While we’re in a high-tech industry, it is a very old-fashioned model, and it’s something that I think that everybody should seriously consider and take a look at.”