The Verge has released the latest edition of its Installer newsletter, highlighting a fresh batch of gadgets, apps, media, and community recommendations. The lineup includes new hardware from tech giants alongside community-submitted favorites ranging from mobile games to browser customizations.
New Hardware and App Releases
The latest Apple iPad Mini stands out as one of the most intriguing product releases of the week, offering a thinner, lighter design alongside water- and dustproofing, despite lacking a ProMotion screen. Meanwhile, Amazon’s Alexa Photo Frame serves a dual purpose as a digital photo frame and a smart home hub. In software, the classic note-taking app nvAlt received its first major update in years to run on modern Macs, while the Chromagraph camera app allows users to process iPhone photos using preferred cinematic styles developed by director Rian Johnson and his cinematographer.
Other notable mentions include the Readwise Books app for reading and tracking literature, the martial arts-inspired game Phantom Blade Zero dominating Steam charts, and the arrival of No Man’s Sky on iOS devices. Additionally, the Matic Serene robotic vacuum drew attention for its ultra-quiet operation, despite carrying a high price tag.
Community Recommendations
As part of the weekly crowdsourced segment, members of the Installer community shared their current favorite media and apps. Recommendations included watching the series VisionQuest, using the CallMe app to coordinate phone calls with friends, playing the daily logic puzzle game Clues By Sam, and exploring the music analysis YouTube channel Digging the Greats by Brandon Shaw.
Additional community tips featured switching to the Librewolf browser for a privacy-focused experience free from AI additions and telemetry, and experimenting with older 3D media using the Steam Frame.
The newsletter concluded with a recommendation to watch designer Byron Seven’s video detailing the creation of a versatile laptop sleeve, desk organizer, and backpack combination.
