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“Hello, pals! Welcome to Installer No. 55, your go-to source for the top and most cutting-edge things in the world. (If you’re new here, welcome, brace yourself to fill up your phone’s storage, and you can also catch up on all past editions on the Installer homepage.) This week, I’ve been engrossed in articles about AI girlfriends, Bobbi Althoff, and baseball pitchers, enjoying Nobody Wants This (my new favorite show), and the latest noodle-centric Chef’s Table (an old favorite), rekindling my love for Coldplay, tuning in to John Oliver discussing journalism, playing a lot of Alphaguess, and meticulously transferring all my stuff to my new stylish blue iPhone 16. It’s just so beautiful.
I’ve also got some cool new ways for you to keep track of your belongings, a fantastic app for social media posting, a smart method to organize your life on Apple devices, a must-watch anime on Netflix, an updated version of the best smart ring, and much more. Let’s dive in.
(As always, the best part of Installer is hearing about your suggestions and tips. What are you currently obsessed with? What should everyone else be exploring this week? Tell me everything: [email protected]. And if you know someone else who might enjoy Installer, tell them to subscribe here.)
The Highlights
1. The Pebblebee Clip Universal: This nifty tracker is compatible with both Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find My Device systems, making it a smart choice for multiplatform users or families. A better alternative to a bunch of AirTags.
2. Croissant: A sleek iOS app that simplifies cross-posting to Threads, Bluesky, and Mastodon. It’s not only aesthetically pleasing but also user-friendly.
3. The Raspberry Pi AI Camera: A $70 camera with an integrated AI processor, perfect for tinkering with machine vision, automated photography, and more. Exciting possibilities await.
4. Arc Search for Android: Arc’s reliable browser is now available on more platforms, with the Android version currently in beta. Early impressions are positive, especially on devices like the Pixel Fold.
5. “How I Replaced Notion with Reminders, Numbers, and Notes”: Joan Westenberg’s comprehensive exploration of Apple’s productivity tools has garnered widespread praise. A smart and detailed approach to managing one’s life.
6. Microsoft Copilot: Microsoft’s revamped AI bot features a fresh design and a more personalized approach. A useful tool that goes beyond just work-related tasks.
7. The Oura Ring 4: An updated version of the popular Oura Ring, boasting new features and a noticeably smaller design. A welcome improvement for comfort and style.
8. Dan Da Dan: A highly anticipated anime that promises a captivating storyline and impressive animation. Fans are thrilled about this new title.
9. ChatGPT Canvas: A step forward in AI models, offering a creative platform to generate and edit content with the model’s assistance. Fun and practical for various uses.
10. The Franchise: A fictionalized series offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of a superhero movie. A potentially intriguing watch for fans of similar shows like Unreal.
Screen Share
I had the pleasure of exploring Kyle Wiens’ homescreen, and it was a delightful surprise. Kyle, the CEO of iFixit, showcased his tech-savvy setup, complete with a Pixel 6A phone and essential apps like Audible, Pocket Casts, and Google Maps. He emphasized the importance of repairability and longevity in devices, advocating for modular designs that can last a decade or more.
In addition, Kyle shared his enthusiasm for apps like MTB Project and onX, which are indispensable for navigating off-grid environments with limited cell reception. These tools play a crucial role in his daily activities, highlighting the practicality and value of well-designed apps in various scenarios.