Installer No. 64: A Verge-Curated Collection of Tech, Entertainment, and More
This week’s Installer dives into a diverse pool of digital delights, from the highly anticipated Monument Valley 3 to the intriguing Supernote A5 X2 Manta E Ink tablet. The common thread? A focus on experiences that enhance daily life, whether through immersive gameplay, efficient planning tools, or captivating storytelling. This edition also spotlights a noticeable Netflix theme, a slight anomaly for mid-December, but a welcome one nonetheless. From upcoming movies like Carry-On to insightful behind-the-scenes glimpses of sports broadcasting, Netflix remains a prominent force in entertainment. We also delve into the practical, exploring app organization and curated homescreens with The Verge’s Director of Subscriptions, Esther Cohen. Her insights offer a glimpse into how technology can be personalized to boost productivity and mindfulness.
Monument Valley 3 emerges as a standout recommendation, solidifying its position as a beloved mobile game series. Its captivating visuals, serene soundscapes, and replayable design contribute to its enduring appeal. While requiring a Netflix subscription might seem unusual, it presents an added benefit for existing subscribers and underscores the evolving landscape of mobile gaming. Mozi, the latest creation from Twitter and Medium founder Ev Williams, aims to connect friends and acquaintances in real-time. While its niche focus might limit widespread adoption, it fills a void left by Facebook’s decline and offers a promising alternative for location-based social interaction. iOS 18.2’s customizable default apps earns a mention for empowering users to tailor their iPhone experience. This relatively small feature significantly enhances user control and flexibility.
The Supernote A5 X2 Manta, despite its awkward name, showcases a sleek design and a focus on repairability and upgradability, setting it apart in the E Ink tablet market. Its commitment to longevity is a welcome trend in a world of disposable electronics. Joi Planner, a visually appealing to-do app for iPhones, combines calendar, task, and habit tracking features into a single, elegant interface. While still under development, its potential for seamless daily planning is evident. Nickel Boys, a film adaptation of the critically acclaimed novel, promises a powerful cinematic experience with its innovative first-person perspective. Early buzz suggests award potential, marking it as a must-see for film enthusiasts. A behind-the-scenes look at the Simpsons’ Monday Night Football broadcasts unveils the technical wizardry behind these animated segments, offering a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of sports production. Paired with a video on how football is filmed for TV, these insights provide a mini masterclass in production techniques.
Carry-On, a Netflix movie generating pre-release buzz, piques curiosity despite its trailer seemingly revealing the entire plot. Its potential for holiday-themed entertainment places it squarely within the Die Hard Christmas canon discussion. Beyond entertainment, Installer explores the personal tech habits of Esther Cohen, The Verge’s Director of Subscriptions. Her homescreen reveals a practical approach to app organization, prioritizing essential tools and minimizing distractions. Relocating social media apps off the homescreen highlights a growing trend towards digital wellbeing and reclaiming focus. Her current favorites span diverse interests, from the heartfelt comedy Shrinking to the energetic French musical Molière: Le Spectacle Musical. This curated selection showcases the breadth and depth of available entertainment options.
Installer also gathers recommendations from its community, providing a diverse range of suggestions encompassing 3D modeling, immersive soundscapes, indie games, productivity techniques, foldable phones, nostalgic gaming experiences, epic fantasy novels, budget-friendly earbuds, handheld gaming devices, thought-provoking non-fiction, graphic novels, and music biographies. This crowdsourced collection underscores the power of shared recommendations and the vibrant tapestry of interests within the tech and entertainment landscape. Finally, Installer addresses the age-old dilemma of gift-giving, offering practical suggestions for affordable and versatile presents. Power banks, scratch-off lottery tickets, local gift cards, coffee, and candles emerge as thoughtful options for colleagues, Secret Santa exchanges, or any occasion requiring a small gesture of appreciation. These crowd-sourced ideas aim to simplify the gift-giving process and offer a range of choices to suit different tastes and budgets.
The overarching theme of this week’s Installer is the exploration of digital tools and experiences that enrich various aspects of life. From gaming and productivity to entertainment and mindful app usage, the curated selection offers a diverse palette of options for tech enthusiasts and casual users alike. The emphasis on community engagement further strengthens the Installer’s role as a platform for shared discovery and recommendations. By highlighting both mainstream and niche offerings, Installer caters to a broad audience and encourages exploration beyond the familiar. The inclusion of personal insights from The Verge team and crowdsourced recommendations fosters a sense of community and reinforces the value of collective knowledge in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of technology and entertainment. Ultimately, Installer No. 64 serves as a guide to enhance daily life through carefully curated selections and shared experiences.
