Today's NYT Connections Hints, Answers and Help for June 16, #736

Apple is pushing back against rumors that it plans to merge iPadOS and macOS, but industry watchers think a foldable iPad could force its hand. The idea is that a more versatile, laptop-like iPad might blur the lines between the two operating systems, pushing Apple to unify them—whether it wants to or not.

Editor’s Note: If Apple does eventually merge iPadOS and macOS, it could be a game-changer for how we use tablets and computers. Right now, iPads are powerful but still feel like big phones in some ways, while Macs handle heavier tasks. A unified system might give users the best of both worlds—or just complicate things. Either way, it’s a sign that the line between tablets and laptops keeps getting thinner.

DC Studios co-head James Gunn revealed that Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is getting a title change—because, frankly, he’s "sick of it." The new name hasn’t been announced yet, but Gunn hinted it’ll be simpler and more streamlined. No drama here, just a creative tweak.

Editor’s Note: For fans keeping tabs on DC’s reboot plans, this isn’t some huge shake-up—just Gunn streamlining things. Titles matter, though, and a snappier one could help the movie stand out in a crowded superhero landscape. Plus, it’s a peek into Gunn’s hands-on approach as he reshapes the DC universe.

Nintendo just announced a special "Donkey Kong Bananza" Direct presentation airing June 18, promising fresh updates on the beloved ape’s next adventures. While details are scarce, fans are buzzing—will we see a new game, remasters, or maybe even that long-rumored Switch revival of the classic DK arcade series?

Editor’s Note: Donkey Kong fans have been starving for news, and this Direct could finally deliver. With Nintendo’s track record of surprise reveals, this isn’t just filler—it’s a potential hype moment for one of gaming’s most iconic franchises. Whether you’re into platformers, nostalgia, or just big monkey energy, it’s worth marking your calendar.

A research paper with the playful title "This paper will be sad if you don't read" explores how some autistic individuals personify objects—attaching emotions or personalities to inanimate things. The study suggests this tendency isn't just whimsy but may reflect unique cognitive and empathetic processes in autism. Online discussions (linked via Hacker News) debate whether this is a quirk, a coping mechanism, or a window into alternative ways of experiencing the world.

Editor’s Note: If you've ever felt like your car has a "grumpy" mood or your laptop is "stubborn," you're not alone—but for some autistic people, this goes deeper. The study challenges stereotypes by framing object personification not as childish imagination but as a meaningful cognitive trait. It matters because understanding these nuances can reshape how we view autism, moving beyond deficits to recognizing diverse ways of thinking. Plus, who hasn’t yelled at a printer? Maybe we’re all a little autistic in that way.

T-Mobile is offering a sweet deal where you can snag a brand-new Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus for free—no strings attached, as long as you trade in any eligible phone (even if it’s beat up) and sign up for one of their premium plans, like Experience Beyond or Go5G Next.

Editor’s Note: If you’ve been eyeing Samsung’s latest flagship but don’t want to drop a grand upfront, this could be your ticket. It’s a win for T-Mobile customers looking to upgrade without the usual trade-in hassles, though the catch is committing to a pricier plan. Still, for heavy data users or those already on these tiers, it’s basically a free phone—hard to argue with that.