Installer No. 67: A Whirlwind of Tech, Entertainment, and AI
This week’s Installer is a jam-packed exploration of the latest and greatest in tech, entertainment, and artificial intelligence. From the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 to the captivating second season of Severance, there’s something for everyone. We’ll delve into the world of design with the Nokia Design Archive, ponder the intricacies of online identity with "An Update on Our Family," and revisit classic gaming with Donkey Kong Country Returns HD. We’ll also explore the philosophical depths of The Matrix with Laurence Fishburne, enhance productivity with Raycast Focus, and celebrate 50 years of Saturday Night Live with a new documentary. Plus, we’ll experiment with the nascent capabilities of ChatGPT Tasks, a to-do list app with chatbot integration.
The Verge welcomes Todd Haselton, our new deputy editor for reviews and commerce, who bravely dove headfirst into the chaotic world of CES for his initiation. We get a glimpse into Todd’s world through his homescreen, revealing his cherished connections, gaming habits, and even his go-to comfort food. His app choices, from the practical to the aspirational, offer a window into his daily life and priorities. Beyond the digital, Todd shares his current literary pursuits, gaming rituals with friends, and a surprisingly relatable affinity for fast food.
This week’s Crowdsourced section highlights recommendations from the Installer community, showcasing a diverse range of interests. From mood tracking apps and anime adventures to language learning tools and media streaming platforms, the community offers a wealth of suggestions. We also hear about efficient file transfer solutions, nostalgic gaming experiences, engaging manga series, and even a solitaire horse racing game. Rounding out the recommendations are a powerful Safari extension for custom web searches and a highly praised game called News Tower.
Beyond The Verge’s own content and community contributions, this edition of Installer spotlights several external pieces worthy of attention. First, the intriguing concept of families crafting online personas solely for public consumption is explored in "An Update on Our Family," raising questions about the nature of authenticity in the digital age. Then, delving into the world of podcasts, we encounter an unexpected gem: "The Science of the Matrix with Laurence Fishburne" on Neil Degrasse Tyson’s StarTalk. This episode features Morpheus himself discussing the philosophical underpinnings of the iconic film, offering a fresh perspective on its enduring themes.
Further expanding our horizons, we encounter the Nokia Design Archive, a meticulously curated collection chronicling the evolution of Nokia’s design philosophy. From whimsical phone concepts to ambitious visions of the future, this archive offers a fascinating journey through the company’s innovative history. For gaming enthusiasts, both old and new, there’s excitement surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2, with a teaser video hinting at its potential. Meanwhile, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD offers a nostalgic trip back to classic side-scrolling action, promising a challenging and rewarding experience.
In the realm of television, Severance season two is generating considerable buzz, with early reviews suggesting it lives up to the high bar set by the first season. This psychological thriller has captivated audiences with its intriguing premise and compelling characters. For a lighter dose of entertainment, SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night offers a behind-the-scenes look at the iconic show’s history, promising a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
This Installer also explores emerging technologies with Raycast Focus, a new feature designed to enhance productivity by blocking distracting apps and websites. Its countdown timer adds an element of gamification to focus management. We also delve into the world of AI with ChatGPT Tasks, a to-do list app that integrates chatbot functionality. While still in its early stages, this tool hints at the potential of AI-powered productivity tools.
Finally, we shift our focus to the world of sports with the Australian Open, where the real highlight isn’t just the tennis itself, but the innovative live-animated broadcasts on YouTube. This unique approach, necessitated by complex rights issues, has unexpectedly captured the attention of viewers. The animated matches, featuring Wii Sports-esque characters, offer a whimsical and engaging alternative to traditional broadcasts. This unexpected success raises intriguing questions about the future of sports broadcasting and the potential for creative alternatives.
