Installing Joy: A Dive into Installer No. 110
Hello, friends! Welcome to Installer No. 110, your ultimate guide to exploring the best and Verge-iest stuff the world has to offer. For those just joining us, a warm welcome and happy holidays! Don’t forget to explore our past editions at the Installer homepage.
A Whirlwind of Interests
In this edition, I’ve been diving deep into a mix of intriguing topics. From the heartfelt nostalgia of mall Santas to the fascinating concept of malleable software, the world is rich with stories waiting to be uncovered. I also stumbled upon discussions about phone bans in schools, making me reflect on how these policies shift the social landscape.
If you’re like me, you might also find yourself pondering the latest in music. I’m currently scratching my head over the latest offerings from DJ Earworm’s annual mashup—how did I forget all those catchy tunes? Meanwhile, I eagerly await the return of Ugmonk’s Layflat notebooks to resupply my stationary game, a crucial step in my organizational toolbox.
For the gamers, I’m setting up my Switch 2 Camera for some holiday fun. Just beware—my fantasy football team is not performing well, and I’m doing everything in my power to avoid last place. As for note-taking, I’m experimenting with some unusual workflows using MCP in Craft, all while learning the lyrics to Justin Bieber’s rap verse in “Drummer Boy” thanks to a viral TikTok trend.
A Year in Review: My Favorite Picks of 2025
As we close out another year, it’s essential to reflect on the incredible offerings of 2025. We’ve published 45 issues of Installer this year alone—an impressive feat if I do say so myself! With so much content, it’s easy to overlook some gems. Here’s my top ten favorites from this bustling year:
1. Enshittification by Cory Doctorow
This book captured both my interest and indignation. Doctorow’s insights into modern tech reflect a universal frustration—a sense of relief that I’m not alone in this observation.
2. Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones
I took the plunge with both the Sony WH-1000XM6 and AirPods Pro 3 this year. While both deliver quality, the Sonys reign supreme with their unmatched comfort and noise cancellation—particularly essential while juggling a newborn!
3. Nintendo Switch 2
A long-awaited upgrade, the Nintendo Switch 2 has enriched my gaming life. Mario Kart World continues to be a joyous escape, making this gadget purchase of the year.
4. Claude Code
Amidst a saturated market, Claude Code stands out as a tool that showcases the potential of AI in programming—helping me tackle small projects efficiently.
5. Antinote
For my quick-listing needs, Antinote serves as an indispensable scratchpad that morphs into a calculator and a timer. At least a million uses a day, I assure you.
6. The Studio
I must admit, I’m behind on many popular shows this year. Still, The Studio caught my attention with its inventiveness and humor—entertainment that felt both refreshing and nostalgic.
7. Amazon Echo Dot Max
New house, new smart speaker. The Echo Dot Max not only streamlines my music experience but also time management in a surprisingly nifty way.
8. Philips Hue Essentials
Smart lighting might feel extravagant, but it’s truly a game-changer for mood setting. I transformed my once glaring home into a warm, cozy retreat.
9. Good Hang
Amy Poehler’s celebrity podcast took me by surprise. Few hours are more delightful than listening to her chat, especially the episode with Martin Short.
10. Puzzmo
In my quest to replace mindless social media scrolling, Puzzmo emerged as a fun, daily puzzle game that keeps my brain engaged.
The Genius Behind the Screen: Jason Kottke
Jason Kottke, the all-seeing eye of the internet and the Installer “godfather,” has been curating insightful content for decades. His prowess in uncovering hidden gems is unmatched, making his screen-sharing section a highlight of this edition.
Jason’s Homescreen Breakdown
- Phone: iPhone 17 Pro
- Wallpaper: A stunning sandbar shot from a past vacation in Mexico
- Key Apps: Pedometer, Apple Sports, Tesla, Calendar, Photos, and more. Emphasis on simplicity—more functionality, less clutter.
In essence, Kottke embraces minimalism while maintaining an effective utility. He moved social media apps out of sight, a commendable (yet challenging) attempt to reduce digital distraction.
Community Favorites: Your Recommendations
As this year closes, it’s vital to shine a spotlight on recommendations from our community. Your input breathes life into Installer:
- Keychron Q1 HE Keyboard: “Brick-like in weight, but wonderful for typing,” says Anders.
- Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir: Michael praises the gripping narrative that sparked his reading spree.
- Home Assistant Green: Andris loves the automation capabilities and seamless integration with various smart home devices.
- Fujifilm X100V: A favored upgrade for Zayd, who wants to be the proud dad capturing memories outside of the iPhone.
Each of these selections not only showcases individual interests but also helps create a rich tapestry of shared experiences that stretch beyond the confines of one person’s favorites.
Remember, every recommendation you send enriches this community. Whether through email, Signal, or even carrier pigeons, I value your input and want to keep the dialogue going!
Stay tuned for more insights and happy exploring in the coming year!
