"Installer No. 84: Summer Blockbusters, New Fortnite on iOS, and Alternatives to Pocket"

Summer blockbuster season has officially kicked off, bringing with it a flurry of exciting releases and updates in the tech and entertainment worlds. In this edition of Installer, we cover the return of "Fortnite" to iOS, the latest "Mission: Impossible" film, a new entry in the beloved puzzle game "Puzzmo," a budget-friendly set-top box, and the highly anticipated eighth season of "Rick and Morty." We also dive into the new virtual Stream Deck platform, updates to Strava, and explore the unique perspectives of industry insider Karen Hao on the enigmatic company OpenAI. Fortnite for iOS: Rebooted "Fortnite," the wildly popular battle royale game by Epic Games, has returned to iOS after a multi-year absence due to a dispute with Apple over payment systems. The release is a significant comeback that will reconnect players with the mobile version of the game. For those jumping back in, the Zero Build mode offers a streamlined experience without the extensive building mechanics, making it perfect for quick sessions. Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning: Theater Bound Tom Cruise's "Mission: Impossible" franchise continues with its latest installment, "The Final Reckoning." Despite the predictable trope of AI being the antagonist, the series remains a fan favorite for its high-octane action and thrilling storylines. Tech enthusiasts and film aficionados alike are eagerly awaiting the big-screen debut. Puzzmo for iOS: Same Great Gameplay "Puzzmo," a web-based puzzle game known for its challenging variants of chess and Sudoku, has finally made its way to iOS. Although the mobile app mirrors the web app's functionality, it adds a new layer of convenience for puzzle lovers. The inclusion of a stylish app icon and enhanced portability might just incentivize more frequent gameplay sessions. Onn Google TV 4K Plus: Budget Bliss Walmart's Onn Google TV 4K Plus set-top box is a noteworthy addition to the market, offering a combination of affordable pricing and robust features. At just $30, this device provides Google TV, Dolby Vision, and 4K support, making it an attractive option for those looking to upgrade their streaming setup without breaking the bank. NotebookLM for Mobile: On-the-Go Organization The mobile versions of NotebookLM, available on both iOS and Android, offer seamless integration with the app's desktop counterpart via the share sheet. This makes it easy to send notes, links, and other content directly to your notebooks. For fans of the podcast-style Audio Overviews, the mobile app is particularly useful for staying organized on the go. Rick and Morty Season 8: Sci-Fi Shenanigans "Rick and Morty" returns with its eighth season, promising more of the hilarious and unpredictable adventures fans have come to love. The show's blend of dark humor, intricate plotlines, and scientific whimsy has cemented its status as a cult classic. After a year and a half hiatus, the new season is highly anticipated, and some viewers might even consider a full rewatch to get fully immersed in the universe. Virtual Stream Deck: Smart Button Evolution Elgato is transforming its Stream Deck smart button lineup into a versatile platform that can be integrated into various hardware or simply run on a screen. This innovation allows users to streamline repetitive tasks and customize their setup, making it a must-have for tech-savvy individuals looking to optimize their workflows. Strava Updates: Enhanced Routing System Strava, a popular fitness app among tech enthusiasts, has rolled out several new features this week. However, the most significant update is the enhanced routing system, which generates the best route between two points. This feature is particularly handy for planning runs or bike rides to specific destinations, adding a practical layer of convenience to the app. In the realm of AI and technology, OpenAI stands out as a company that has both amazed and baffled observers. Known for developing cutting-edge AI models like ChatGPT and DALL-E, OpenAI has been at the forefront of AI innovation. However, the company's internal dynamics are as intriguing as its products. Karen Hao, a seasoned journalist and author of "Empire of AI: Dreams and Nightmares in Sam Altman’s OpenAI," offers a deep dive into OpenAI’s journey and its implications for society. Karen’s homescreen on her iPhone XR is surprisingly minimal, featuring essential apps like Messages, Google Calendar, and Brave Browser. She prioritizes privacy, using Brave to shield her data from targeted ads. Additionally, she keeps a guitar-tuning app, GuitarTuna, as a reminder to maintain her musical hobbies. The Installer community is abuzz with recommendations ranging from vintage tech revitalization to engaging sci-fi literature. One member is restoring a 6th generation iPod Classic, another enjoys the Revelation Space series by Alastair Reynolds, and yet another appreciates the meditation apps Happier and Calm. These diverse interests highlight the multifaceted nature of tech and entertainment consumption. Amidst the excitement, a somber note: Mozilla has announced the shutdown of Pocket, a popular reading app. While this news is disappointing, users can consider alternatives like Instapaper, Pocket Alternative Reader, or Reader Mode for a similar reading experience. Each option offers easy migration of saved articles, ensuring minimal disruption to your digital habits. Overall, the return of "Fortnite" to iOS and the continued evolution of tech platforms like Elgato’s Virtual Stream Deck and Strava’s routing system demonstrate the industry’s ongoing commitment to enhancing user experiences. OpenAI’s impact on technology and society remains a subject of intense scrutiny and debate, reflecting the complex and exciting nature of AI development. For those seeking new ways to consume and interact with digital content, this week offers a plethora of options, from budget-friendly hardware to thought-provoking media.