Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for June 20, #270

Google has quietly removed the ability for enterprise developers to see the reasoning traces behind its Gemini AI model's outputs—basically making it harder to understand why the model makes certain decisions. This move has sparked frustration among developers who rely on that transparency to troubleshoot and refine their applications, with some calling it "debugging blind." The debate highlights the tension between the convenience of powerful AI models and the need for clarity in how they operate.

Editor’s Note: When companies like Google make AI models less transparent, it’s not just a technical issue—it affects businesses that depend on these tools to build reliable products. If developers can’t peek under the hood, fixing errors or biases becomes a guessing game. This story matters because it’s part of a bigger conversation: Should cutting-edge AI stay a black box, or do users deserve to know how it works?

TikTok is making waves at Cannes, the glitzy film festival where creativity and commerce collide. Despite looming threats of a U.S. ban, the platform feels untouchable here—booming with star-studded parties, brand deals, and a palpable sense of cultural influence. It’s a stark contrast to the political battles back home, proving TikTok’s global grip isn’t loosening anytime soon.

Editor’s Note: Even as U.S. lawmakers debate banning TikTok over security concerns, its presence at Cannes shows how deeply entrenched it is in global culture and business. This isn’t just about viral dances—it’s a powerhouse for entertainment, advertising, and even filmmaking. The disconnect between political rhetoric and on-the-ground reality makes this a fascinating watch. Will regulators catch up, or is TikTok too big to fail?

Apple's latest iOS 26 beta has a hidden new ringtone, and iPhone users are split—some think it's a fresh jam, while others find it oddly depressing. The debate is heating up online, proving that even tiny details can spark big opinions in the Apple community.

Editor’s Note: Ringtones might seem trivial, but they’re part of the personality of our devices—and Apple fans take that seriously. Whether this one sticks or gets scrapped could depend on how loud the backlash gets. It’s a fun peek into how even small tweaks can stir up strong reactions in tech culture.

Move over, true crime docs—there's a new binge-worthy obsession on Disney+. Nine Puzzles, a Korean thriller about a serial killer, is smashing streaming records, and fans are kicking themselves for not discovering it earlier. The show's gripping plot and intense performances have turned it into an unexpected breakout hit, proving yet again that K-dramas can dominate any genre.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another niche show—it’s a sign of how global streaming audiences are hungry for fresh, high-stakes storytelling, especially from South Korea’s powerhouse entertainment industry. If Disney+ is scoring big with a Korean thriller, expect even more boundary-pushing international content to flood your queue soon.

WIRED put a bunch of pillows through the wringer—literally and figuratively—to find the top nine picks for 2025. Whether you’re a side sleeper, back snoozer, or someone who ends up in a blanket burrito by dawn, they’ve got a recommendation to keep your head happy.

Editor’s Note: Let’s face it, bad pillows ruin sleep, and bad sleep ruins everything else. This isn’t just fluff—WIRED’s deep dive saves you the hassle of trial-and-error (and neck pain) by narrowing down the best options. If you’ve ever woken up with a crick in your neck, this one’s worth a skim.