Greetings, dear readers! Welcome back to Installer No. 30, your ultimate source for the latest and most Verge-iest content out there. (And if you’re new here, we’re thrilled to have you. Check out all our past editions on the Installer homepage.) This week, I’ve been immersed in the delightful puzzle game Close Cities, scrounging up cash to snag TikTok, delving into the newest installment of my favorite spy-thriller series, contemplating squatting in a mansion, testing out Today for everyday tasks, jotting down notes on an insightful video about the editing in Oppenheimer, and cheering “SPACE!” during the latest SpaceX launch.
But wait, there’s more! I’ve got a fantastic new AI productivity tool, a stellar way to discover what to watch, some intriguing shows revolving around historical events, and an in-depth analysis of the downfall of the Apple Car. Let’s dive in.
As always, the heart and soul of Installer are your thoughts and recommendations. What app has you hooked right now? Which show can’t you stop gushing about? What game is draining all your controller batteries this week? Spill the beans: [email protected]. And if you know someone who would love Installer as much as you do, pass it along and tell them to subscribe here.
In the Spotlight
Likewise has been a longtime favorite of mine for TV shows, movies, and podcasts recommendations, and its recent redesign has me smitten. Think of it as TikTok for entertainment – simply scroll through titles and trailers until you find your next binge-worthy pick.
The Apple Car – A $10 Billion Blunder. The inside scoop on Apple’s failed car project is a must-read. It sheds light on how Apple’s unique identity ultimately led to its downfall in the competitive automotive industry.
Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War. After Oppenheimer’s big win at the Oscars, this Netflix series is a captivating exploration of the origins of the Cold War and whether it truly ever ended.
Proton Mail for desktop. Proton is giving Gmail a run for its money with its latest desktop apps for Mac and Windows. While offline functionality is still in the works, its email and calendar integration is top-notch.
The Dyson 360 Vis Nav. A pricey robot vacuum from Dyson that promises exceptional performance, especially in tackling those pesky corners. Early reviews are mixed, but its power and precision are hard to resist.
Evernote. The once-forgotten note-taking app is making a comeback under new ownership. With features like Outlook calendar integration and collapsible headers, it’s winning over users like me who had written it off.
Manhunt. This captivating miniseries delves into the hunt for Abraham Lincoln’s assassin, a historical thriller that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t forget to check out the book it’s based on for an even deeper dive.
Dola. Elevate your productivity with Dola, an AI assistant that communicates via text messages to help you stay organized with reminders and calendar events. A game-changer for managing your daily tasks.
Ozone on Bluesky. The open-sourcing of Bluesky’s moderation tool is a game-changer in the world of social media. Now, users can choose their preferred moderation system, giving them more control over their online experience.
Screen Share
Michael Fisher, also known as MrMobile and Captain2Phones, recently co-founded Clicks, a sleek keyboard case for iPhone. I had a delightful chat with him about keyboards and got a sneak peek at his homescreen setup. Here’s a glimpse into Michael’s tech-savvy world:
On his Google Pixel Fold, Michael rocks an emoji wallpaper that surprisingly adds a fun touch to his daily routine. His homescreen layout is meticulously organized into folders for quick access to his go-to apps, with a row of suggested apps at the bottom for easy browsing.
Michael’s homescreen essentials include NYC Ferry for navigating the city, Instagram for social media updates, and Todoist for staying on top of tasks. His widgets from Google keep him in the loop with his calendar, weather, and reminders.
And what’s Michael into these days? A blast from the past with the classic sci-fi film Outland and a rekindled love for text adventures that transport him back to his gaming roots.
That’s a wrap for this edition of Installer! Stay tuned for more tech insights, entertainment picks, and productivity hacks in the next installment. Remember, your feedback is what keeps Installer thriving, so share your thoughts and recommendations with me at [email protected]. And don’t forget to spread the Installer love by forwarding this to a friend who’s missing out. Subscribe here for more Verge-iness in your inbox.