Welcome to Installer No. 131, your guide to the best and most Verge-iest stuff in the world. This week, we explore the transition of a YouTube phenomenon to the big screen, along with new Lego sets, gaming updates, and innovative gadgets.
The Amazing Digital Circus: The Last Act
The Amazing Digital Circus (TADC) stands as one of YouTube's most successful animated series. Its series finale, The Last Act, is now playing in theaters for a limited time before arriving on YouTube. This marks another milestone in the platform's takeover of entertainment.
Lego's Smart Play Pokémon
Lego's Smart Brick concept continues to intrigue, with 12 new interactive Pokémon sets available for preorder ahead of an August release. The Jigglypuff set is particularly anticipated by fans.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Originally released two years ago, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is now available on Xbox and Switch. Widely regarded as one of the series' best titles, it offers a new entry point for newcomers.
Shokz OpenDots Air
These clip-on, open-ear headphones provide a way to enjoy audio while staying aware of surroundings. A more affordable model, the OpenDots Air, aims to address connectivity issues from previous versions.
Microsoft Surface Laptop Ultra
Nvidia's RTX Spark chip lineup powers this ultra-powerful Surface Laptop, which bets on AI transforming laptop use. Though pricey, it promises cutting-edge performance.
Cape Fear
Javier Bardem delivers another terrifying villain performance in this Apple TV series. The trailer has generated buzz, prompting viewers to revisit the 1962 and 1991 film versions.
Corsair Nightsword V2 Mouse
Despite its dramatic name, this mouse features a dedicated button for Stream Deck controls, enhancing productivity and customization.
WiiM Bar
A new soundbar from WiiM offers impressive specs and connectivity at $479, though it lacks AirPlay. Its front-and-center touchscreen may divide opinions.
Swan Song
This puzzle game cleverly integrates music and offers a thoughtful, emotionally resonant experience. The demo has received positive feedback.
Screen Share: Justin Mitchell's Homescreen
Developer Justin Mitchell, creator of the CrossPoint firmware for e-readers, shares his minimalist homescreen on a Unihertz Titan 2 phone. He uses Niagara Launcher, custom widgets, and apps like Audiobookshelf and Vivaldi. Mitchell also recommends the Xteink e-reader, the Threshold series by Peter Clines, Kinfire Delve board games, and 3D-printed fidget toys.
Crowdsourced Recommendations
- Roost: A messaging app that delivers messages at bird-inspired speeds.
- LazyVim: A lightweight Vim configuration for quick script editing.
- Widow's Bay: A must-watch series with weekly anticipation.
- Clicks Power Keyboard: A keyboard case for Pixel 10 Pro now shipping.
- Tuna: A fast, configurable Mac launcher.
- Humans: Hank Green's new podcast.
- Marathon: Season two introduces a dark night map and gear wipe.
- Sesame: An AI voice dialog app for realistic conversations.
- Layr: A clipboard manager activated by trackpad gestures.
- RingConn Gen 2 Air: A budget-friendly smart ring with no subscription.
Signing Off
As summer blockbusters approach, Toy Story 5 stands out, offering discussions on screentime and humanity. Director Andrew Stanton and Tom Hanks provide insights, and a new Taylor Swift song accompanies the film.
