Hi, friends! Welcome to Installer No. 14, your go-to source for the latest and most Verge-worthy content out there. If you’re new here, a warm welcome to you! You’re greatly appreciated, and you can catch up on previous editions on the Installer homepage.
This edition features a comprehensive guide to top-notch money management tools, cutting-edge gadgets from Valve and Humane, a plethora of writing applications, fresh developments from ChatGPT, and much more exciting content.
The heart and soul of Installer lies in your contributions and insights. What’s capturing your interest lately? What books, shows, skills, or activities are you immersed in that deserve a shoutout? Don’t hold back—share everything with us at [email protected]. And if you know someone who’d enjoy Installer, pass it along and encourage them to subscribe here.
Let’s dive into the highlights of this week’s Installer universe!
- The Steam Deck OLED: Valve has pulled a Nintendo by enhancing various aspects of its already impressive console, such as the screen, fan, battery life, and processor. This upgraded version is definitely on my shopping list.
- The Humane AI Pin: Amidst the ongoing quest to envision life beyond smartphones, Humane introduces its first AI-powered device. While its revolutionary potential remains uncertain, the intrigue surrounding this gadget is palpable.
- GPTs: Crafting your personalized ChatGPT with distinct knowledge, personality, and flair is now a breeze, taking only a few minutes. These specialized AI tools are poised for significant impact, a stark contrast to the overarching concept of a singular AI entity.
- Planet Earth III: The debut episode of the latest installment in the awe-inspiring documentary series is now available in the US, offering breathtaking drone footage, immersive natural sounds, and captivating underwater and aerial explorations.
- Aftermath: A promising new publication helmed by seasoned video game journalists, delving into topics like Zelda, the Steam Deck, Overwatch, and more. A noteworthy addition to the digital landscape.
- Final Cut Pro: Apple continues to cater to Final Cut users, particularly highlighting the enhanced functionalities of the iPad app with convenient keyboard shortcuts, workflow enhancements, and a useful voiceover feature.
- The Marvels: A Marvel film that strikes a delicate balance, catering to die-hard fans while remaining accessible to a broader audience. Despite some mixed reviews, this movie promises an engaging cinematic experience.
- Documents by Readdle: Addressing the shortcomings of the iOS Files app, Readdle’s updated application offers improved organization, including a centralized inbox for streamlined file management—a practical and efficient solution.
- Elon, Inc: Bloomberg’s engaging weekly podcast delves into the tumultuous world of the wealthiest individual on the planet, striking a harmonious balance between casual conversation and insightful analysis.
Last week, I sought your insights on money management systems following Mint’s unfortunate closure. Your responses were invaluable, showcasing a diverse array of apps and strategies. Here’s a rundown of your recommendations and observations:
- YNAB: The standout choice among the suggestions, lauded for its seamless account synchronization, ad-free experience, and structured budgeting principles.
- Copilot: Another popular option, distinguished by its polished interface, intuitive data visualization tools, and overall user-friendly design.
- Other Noteworthy Apps: Recommendations included Qapital, Buddy, Empower, HomeBank, Expenses, Quicken, EveryDollar, Nudget, Ledger, and Dime.
- Embracing Spreadsheets: Several users highlighted the simplicity and effectiveness of using Excel or Google Sheets for budget tracking, especially for those seeking a straightforward approach.
- Streamlining with Templates: Tools like Tiller and the Notion template were commended for enhancing the functionality and automation of spreadsheet-based systems.
- Manual Tracking: While some preferred personalized systems for meticulous monitoring, many acknowledged the labor-intensive nature of this approach, emphasizing the need for consistency.
- Bank-Integrated Solutions: Several banks offer in-app budgeting features, providing a convenient option for managing finances within a familiar platform.
After reviewing your feedback and conducting research, I’ve decided to give Copilot a try for my financial management needs. While YNAB is commendable, I found it challenging to maintain consistency. Additionally, I plan to create an elaborate 2024 budget spreadsheet to explore its efficacy further.
Moving on to Kevin Nguyen, The Verge’s deputy editor, who boasts a unique array of writing apps on his homescreen. Let’s take a peek at his setup and preferred applications:
Device: iPhone 15 Pro (already sporting minor screen scratches).
Wallpaper: Featuring Toshiro Mifune, as Kevin’s partner prefers not to be displayed alongside apps.
Writing Apps: Kevin’s eclectic mix includes iA Writer, Google Docs, Bear, Apple Notes, and Scrivener, each serving a distinct purpose in his writing workflow. Despite their individual shortcomings, these apps cater to specific writing needs, reflecting Kevin’s nuanced approach to content creation.
Non-Writing Apps: Kevin’s roster includes Wallet, Google Authenticator, Photos, Camera, Google Maps, Settings, Clock, Chase, Arc, Slack, Hello Weather, Pins, and Letterboxd, offering a glimpse into his diverse digital toolkit.
Kevin also shared his current interests, featuring engaging recommendations:
- Surround by Hiroshi Yoshimura: An ambient record originally intended for prefab homes, boasting mesmerizing drone sounds and soothing synths—a perfect accompaniment for work or relaxation.
- Same Bed Different Dreams by Ed Park: A genre-defying novel intertwined with Korean history, offering a captivating narrative for readers seeking immersive storytelling.
- Anatomy of a Fall: A gripping courtroom thriller that transcends conventional murder mysteries, delving into complex themes and narrative layers—an exceptional cinematic experience.
Now, let’s shift the spotlight to the Installer community’s current favorites:
- RetroAchievements: A platform enhancing old-school games with trophies, providing a nostalgic gaming experience.
- Fluttermind: Known for Moonring, this developer’s game Spellrazor offers a unique haunted arcade experience, capturing players’ interest.
- The Kids of Rutherford County Podcast: A compelling production from the creators of Serial, offering gripping storytelling and insightful content.
- Castro Podcast App: Praised for its innovative episode management features, making podcast organization a breeze.
- Detroiters: A delightful comedy series starring Tim Robinson and Sam Richardson, delivering 30-minute doses of entertainment.
- Chants of Sennaar: A thought-provoking puzzle game centered on language learning and logical challenges, providing a relaxing yet stimulating gameplay experience.
- Beli App: A standout tool for restaurant tracking and discovery, offering superior functionality compared to mainstream options.
- 60 Songs That Explain the ‘90s Podcast: A deep dive into ‘90s music, blending historical context with engaging storytelling.
As we bid farewell to Tumblr’s uncertain future, let’s reflect on its unique contributions to the online landscape and the challenges faced by diverse social platforms. Matt Mullenweg’s insights shed light on the complexities of building a sustainable social network, underscoring the importance of community engagement and platform evolution.
Stay tuned for more captivating content and engaging discussions in the next edition of Installer. Keep sharing your recommendations and insights at [email protected] to be featured in our weekly highlights.
Let’s continue exploring, discovering, and sharing the best of what the digital world has to offer. Cheers to a weekend filled with new experiences and exciting revelations!
