It's time to revolutionize your productivity with a simple shout! Yes, you read that right. This week's edition of Installer No. 113 brings you a unique twist on getting things done.
Get ready to be amazed by the power of voice commands!
Hey there, dear readers! If you're new to our community, welcome! We're thrilled to have you here, and if you could send some warmth my way in the form of hot cocoa, that'd be fantastic. You can also catch up on past editions at the Installer homepage (https://www.theverge.com/installer-newsletter).
This week, I've been exploring a wide range of topics, from the dark world of private garbage collection (https://www.propublica.org/article/trashed-inside-the-deadly-world-of-private-garbage-collection?utmsource=substack&utmmedium=email) to the timeless allure of vintage watches (https://www.economist.com/interactive/1843/2026/01/09/vintage-luxury-watches?utmsource=substack&utmmedium=email&__readwiseLocation=). I've also been listening to My Favorite Murder (https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/my-favorite-murder-10-year-interview-hardstark-kilgariff-1236474448/), watching movies like The Running Man (https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/798645-the-running-man) and the captivating Sinners (https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/1233413-sinners), and giving my Ray-Ban Meta (https://go.skimresources.com/?id=1025X1701724&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.meta.com%2Fai-glasses%2Fray-ban-meta%2F) smart glasses another go.
But here's the twist: I've been doing all this while multitasking with a fascinating new tool called Todoist Ramble (https://go.skimresources.com/?id=1025X1701724&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.todoist.com%2Framble). It's an AI-powered assistant that lets you dictate your thoughts and tasks, and it's incredibly efficient. You talk, it listens, and your ideas are transformed into organized projects and to-dos. It's like having a personal assistant who's always ready to take your verbal commands.
And that's not all! We've got a unique smartphone, the NexPhone (https://nexphone.com/blog/the-tale-of-nexphone-one-phone-every-computer), which runs three operating systems, including Android, Linux, and Windows. Imagine having a phone that can also be your primary computer! But wait, there's more. We'll dive into a captivating HBO documentary about the legendary Mel Brooks, explore a new word game from The New York Times, and discover some hidden gems in the world of indie games and gadgets.
But first, let's talk about Todoist Ramble. This innovative tool is a game-changer for anyone who wants to get things done efficiently. And the best part? It's just out of beta, so you can start using it right away.
Now, let's dive into the highlights of this week's Installer Lite:
- Todoist Ramble: Your voice is your command center. Dictate your thoughts, and watch as your ideas are transformed into actionable tasks. It's the perfect way to start your day with a clear plan.
- NexPhone: A smartphone that's also a computer? Yes, please! This Android phone comes with Linux and Windows installed, offering a versatile experience. But will it live up to the hype?
- Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man: A must-watch documentary about a comedy legend. Prepare for a hilarious journey through Brooks' iconic films, from Blazing Saddles to Spaceballs.
- Crossplay: The New York Times brings you a multiplayer word game! Challenge your friends and family in this beautifully designed game, perfect for word enthusiasts.
- MIO: Memories in Orbit: An indie game that's making waves. With stunning visuals and a challenging gameplay loop, it's a must-play for gamers seeking a unique experience.
- Sony LinkBuds Clip: Open-ear earbuds are all the rage, and Sony is joining the party. Their noise-canceling expertise promises an immersive audio experience.
- TR-49: If you love puzzle games, this one's for you. Figure out a WWII-era computer and uncover its secrets. A true brain-teaser!
- Joe Rogan Experience #2440 - Matt Damon & Ben Affleck: A rare JRE recommendation, but Affleck and Damon's insights on Hollywood, AI, and the future of entertainment are not to be missed.
- Nightshift: Kurzgesagt's new YouTube channel takes a darker turn. Will it live up to the high standards set by its parent channel?
But wait, there's more! Our community has some fantastic recommendations:
- Boomerang Fu: A delightful local multiplayer game where anthropomorphic foods battle it out with boomerangs. It's chaotic, hilarious, and perfect for family game nights.
- Clawdbot: Your personal AI assistant, accessible via messaging apps. It can perform tasks, connect to various tools, and even rewrite its code. But proceed with caution!
- Bazzite: A solid alternative to Windows for gaming PCs, according to our community member.
- Dirtywave M8: A compact and powerful music-making tool, crafted by a single person. It's a hidden gem for musicians and modders alike.
- Hex: On-device LLM voice dictation, completely free. A simple keystroke and your voice become text.
- Legacy of the Forge DLC for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2: A cozy weekend awaits with this DLC, as you follow Henry's journey to becoming a homeowner.
- Alma: An AI-powered food-tracking app that simplifies macro-counting. Just type what you're eating, and let AI do the rest.
- The Iron Snail: A YouTube channel dedicated to fashion, offering the best content on clothing in years.
- PowerWash Simulator 2: A game that might just make you forget about your real-life chores.
As we juggle busy lives, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by long-form content. But here's a revelation: You can consume almost anything in bite-sized chunks! Whether it's movies, books, or games, breaking them into smaller segments can make them more manageable. So, embrace the power of micro-sessions and make the most of your time.
Until next week, stay curious, and keep exploring! And don't forget to share your thoughts and recommendations with us. Installer is all about community, so let's keep the conversation going.
