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Here are the best Kindle deals right now

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Here are the best Kindle deals right now

In relation to discovering a tool to make use of to learn your ebooks, you could have a couple of choices to select from. You possibly can all the time purchase a pill or use your smartphone, however these units are multipurpose and can be utilized for a ton of issues, like browsing the online or doom-scrolling on Twitter. In case you are on the lookout for one thing to strictly learn books, e-readers, whereas area of interest, are designed to retailer all your books in a digital library with restricted performance.

Amazon, one of many pioneers of the e-reader, has dominated the house for years with its Kindle lineup, which consists of a number of distinctive fashions with their very own professionals and cons.

Beneath, we’ve listed every mannequin presently obtainable for buy. Typically, there isn’t a deal for one, or any, of the merchandise, which is why we’ve talked about the latest sale worth in these situations. Additionally, whereas newer fashions just like the 2021 Kindle Paperwhite are presently solely obtainable for full worth, needless to say Amazon additionally gives 20 % off all of its Kindles if you commerce in choose units, so there are nonetheless different methods to save cash when not one of the fashions can be found at a reduction.

Highlights throughout the vary

Mannequin Mannequin 12 months Configuration Coloration Regular Value Sale Value Retailer
Mannequin Mannequin 12 months Configuration Coloration Regular Value Sale Value Retailer
Kindle 2019 8GB (with advertisements) Black $90 $65 Goal Finest Purchase
Kindle Children (two-pack) 2019 8GB (with out advertisements) Black $120 $100 Amazon Finest Purchase
Kindle Paperwhite 2018 8GB (with advertisements) Black, sage, blue, and plum $130 $110 Amazon
Kindle Paperwhite Signature Version Bundle 2021 32GB (with out advertisements) Black $270 $250 Amazon
Kindle Paperwhite Necessities Bundle 2021 8GB (with advertisements) Black $200 $180 Amazon
Kindle Paperwhite Children (two-pack) 2021 8GB (with out advertisements) Black $320 $300 Amazon Finest Purchase
Kindle Oasis Necessities Bundle 2019 8GB (with advertisements) Black $310 $280 Amazon

The Tenth-gen Kindle is Amazon’s most reasonably priced e-reader, and as such, it often retails for $89.99. Launched in 2019, the bottom Kindle features a entrance mild, 8GB of storage, and comes with or with out advert help. Regardless of together with the identical 167ppi decision as its predecessors, the newest mannequin includes a barely larger distinction than earlier fashions.

The Tenth-gen Kindle usually begins at $89.99 with advertisements, nonetheless, it’s presently on sale at Goal and Finest Purchase for $64.99. If you’d like the mannequin with out advertisements, it’s obtainable at Amazon for $109.99, the usual retail worth. Notice, nonetheless, that for those who purchase both Kindle mannequin at Amazon, you’ll additionally obtain three months of Kindle Limitless at no extra value. When you’re seeking to choose up a couple of e-reader, Finest Purchase and Amazon are providing $20 off a pair, the latter with promo code 2PACK.

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Amazon Kindle (2019)

Amazon’s most reasonably priced e-reader that now features a entrance mild for the show. The pill additionally gives help for Bluetooth headphones and is a bit more comfy to carry than its predecessor.

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The entry-level Kindle and Oasis fashions weren’t the one ones that obtained a refresh in 2019. Amazon additionally introduced and launched the Kindle Children, which gives age-appropriate content material for youthful readers preferring digital books for $109.99 ($20 greater than the bottom Kindle at customary MSRP).

The Kindle Children Version consists of 4 gadgets: the machine, a case, a two-year prolonged substitute assure (within the occasion the machine breaks), and one 12 months of Amazon Children Plus service. The latter is the most important promoting level of the machine except for the kid-friendly patterns, because it permits mother and father to grant their children entry to a digital library of kid-friendly books like Percy Jackson and The Hobbit at no extra value.

On the offers entrance, choices are a bit restricted in the intervening time. Though we noticed the Kindle Children not too long ago drop to $59.99 — its lowest worth so far — it’s solely obtainable at retailers similar to Amazon and Finest Purchase proper now for $109.99, its customary retail worth. Each retailers are additionally providing a $20 low cost if you buy two, although, Amazon requires you to enter promo code 2PACK at checkout to make the most of the deal.

Kindle Children (2019)

Amazon’s kid-friendly bundle, which features a Kindle, one in every of 4 instances, a one-year membership to Amazon Children Plus, and a two-year prolonged guarantee.

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Amazon’s newest Kindle Paperwhite is its Eleventh-gen mannequin, which comes with USB-C help, longer battery life, and a bigger, 6.8-inch show. Given simply how not too long ago the brand new e-reader launched, nonetheless, we haven’t seen a ton of reductions but. Fortunately, you possibly can nonetheless choose up the last-gen mannequin, which is often obtainable for a lot lower than the usual retail worth.

The 2021 Kindle Paperwhite is available in three major configurations: an 8GB mannequin with advertisements for $139.99, an 8GB mannequin with out advertisements for $159.99, and a 32GB, ad-free Signature Version for $189.99. The latter is an identical to the usual Paperwhite, besides it additionally options Qi wi-fi charging and a sensor that may routinely regulate the backlight when wanted. Amazon has additionally rolled out a Kindle Paperwhite Children Version for $159.99, which comes bundled with a kid-friendly cowl, a two-year prolonged substitute assure, and a 12 months of Amazon Children Plus, very similar to the aforementioned Kindle Children. All 2021 fashions are additionally just like the 2018 mannequin in that they characteristic a water-proof design and Audible audiobook help.

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Whereas we noticed the ad-supported Kindle Paperwhite not too long ago drop to $109.99 round Valentine’s Day, it’s presently solely obtainable at Amazon, Finest Purchase, and Goal beginning at $139.99, its full retail worth. When you purchase the e-reader at Amazon, nonetheless, you’ll additionally obtain three months of Kindle Limitless at no extra value. Finest Purchase, in the meantime, is providing a $20 low cost if you buy two.

Amazon additionally gives the 2021 Paperwhite as a part of a bundle that features a energy adapter and both a cloth cowl for $189.97 or a leather-based cowl for $179.97, each of that are $20 off. The 32GB, ad-free Signature Version is on sale at Amazon for $249.97 ($20 off) as a part of a reduced bundle, too, which additionally features a “cork” cowl and a wi-fi charging dock.

Sadly, for those who’re on the lookout for the Kindle Paperwhite Children Version, it’s solely obtainable at Amazon and Finest Purchase proper now for $159.99, its customary retail worth, or as a two-pack for round $300. Once more, you’ll want to make use of promo code 2PACK at Amazon to use the $20 low cost on a pair.

Kindle Paperwhite (2021)

Amazon’s new Kindle Paperwhite has a 6.8-inch, E Ink show with adjustable coloration temperature for nighttime studying. It additionally boasts a sooner processor, extra battery life, IPX8 waterproofing, and — lastly — a USB-C port.

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Kindle Paperwhite Signature Version Bundle

The premium Kindle Paperwhite Signature Version gives the identical design and efficiency as the brand new base mannequin, however with extra storage, an computerized mild sensor, and Qi wi-fi charging. Amazon’s present bundle, highlighted right here, additionally comes with a wi-fi charging dock and a cork case.

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Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Children (2021)

Amazon’s kid-friendly Paperwhite is similar as the brand new base mannequin, however it’s ad-free and comes with the added advantages of a two-year {hardware} safety plan, one 12 months of Amazon Children Plus, and a alternative of three kid-friendly covers.

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Whereas there presently aren’t any worth breaks on the 2021 Kindle Paperwhite — save for the reductions presently obtainable on the assorted bundles — retailers like Amazon and Finest Purchase usually decrease the worth of the last-gen mannequin to $89.99 throughout main procuring holidays and greater gross sales occasions.

Proper now, the 2018 e-reader is on the market at Amazon within the 8GB, ad-supported configuration for $109.99 ($20 off), in addition to the 32GB configuration for $129.99 ($30 off). Moreover, Amazon is discounting the last-gen Kindle Paperwhite as a part of a bundle in choose coloration configurations. These packages embrace both the 8GB e-reader with advertisements for $179.97 or the 32GB reader with advertisements for $209.97, together with a cloth case and energy adapter.

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2018 Kindle Paperwhite (with advertisements)

The Tenth-generation Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof and features a higher show and improved battery life than the earlier iteration.

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Kindle Paperwhite Necessities Bundles (2018, ad-supported)

The fourth era of the Paperwhite e-reader, which is waterproof and features a higher show and improved battery life than the earlier iteration. Amazon’s Necessities Bundle additionally comes with a cloth case and energy adapter.

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The Kindle Oasis is the most costly of the lineup, beginning at $250. The machine is available in two storage configurations, 8GB or 32GB, and like the opposite fashions, you will get it with or with out advertisements on the lock display screen.

The 2019 Kindle Oasis seems to be similar to the earlier mannequin. It retains its waterproof, 7-inch, 300ppi E Ink show and helps Audible audiobooks through Bluetooth. Nonetheless, not like earlier fashions, it may regulate the colour temperature to a yellow-toned show, making it simpler to learn at evening.

Prior to now, we’ve seen the 8GB Kindle Oasis drop to as little as $174.99, which is the bottom it has ever been for that configuration so far. Whereas there are presently no offers on simply the Oasis itself, configurations begin at $249.99 at Amazon and embrace three free months of Kindle Limitless. The 8GB, ad-supported Oasis is $249.99 and the one with out advertisements is $269.99. When you want extra storage, the 32GB model is $279.99 with advertisements or $299.99 with out. Finest Purchase can also be promoting the ad-supported base mannequin for $249.99 or the 32GB variant for $279.99, and providing a $20 low cost if you buy two. Amazon is presently working the identical promotion, providing $20 off a pair with promo code 2PACK.

When you’re on the lookout for a deal, the Kindle Oasis Necessities Bundle is presently on sale in choose configurations at Amazon for $30 off its regular listing worth. Proper now, you will get both the 8GB, ad-supported configuration for as little as $279.97 or the 32GB variant for $309.97, each of which include an influence adapter and material or leather-based cowl.

Kindle Oasis (8GB)

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Amazon’s flagship e-reader now features a hotter show, making it simpler to learn at evening or in numerous lighting situations. It’s additionally IPX8 waterproof, just like the Paperwhite.

Kindle Oasis Necessities Bundle (ad-supported)

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Amazon’s third-gen Oasis consists of IPX8 water resistance and a hotter show, which makes it simpler to learn at evening or in numerous lighting situations. The discounted Necessities Bundle comes packaged with a leather-based cowl, an influence adapter, and three months of Kindle Limitless.

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California governor vetoes major AI safety bill

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California governor vetoes major AI safety bill

California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed the Safe and Secure Innovation for Frontier Artificial Intelligence Models Act (SB 1047) today. In his veto message, Governor Newsom cited multiple factors in his decision, including the burden the bill would have placed on AI companies, California’s lead in the space, and a critique that the bill may be too broad.

“While well-intentioned, SB 1047 does not take into account whether an AI system is deployed in high-risk environments, involves critical decision-making or the use of sensitive data. Instead, the bill applies stringent standards to even the most basic functions — so long as a large system deploys it. I do not believe this is the best approach to protecting the public from real threats posed by the technology.”

Newsom writes that the bill could “give the public a false sense of security about controlling this fast-moving technology.”

“Smaller, specialized models may emerge as equally or even more dangerous than the models targeted by SB 1047 – at the potential expense of curtailing the very innovation that fuels advancement in favor of the public good.”

Governor Newsom also writes that he agrees that there should be safety protocols and guardrails in place, as well as “clear and enforceable” consequences for bad actors. However, he states that he doesn’t believe the state should “settle for a solution that is not informed by an empirical trajectory analysis of Al systems and capabilities.”

Here is the full veto message:

It would have applied to covered AI companies doing business in California with a model that costs over $100 million to train or over $10 million to fine-tune, adding requirements that developers implement safeguards like a “kill switch” and lay out protocols for testing to reduce the chance of disastrous events like a cyberattack or a pandemic. The text also establishes protections for whistleblowers to report violations and enables the AG to sue for damages caused by safety incidents.

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Changes since its introduction included removing proposals for a new regulatory agency and giving the state attorney general power to sue developers for potential incidents before they occur. Most companies covered by the law pushed back against the legislation, though some muted their criticism after those amendments.

The Chamber of Progress, a coalition that represents Amazon, Meta, and Google, similarly warned the law would “hamstring innovation.”

The bill’s opponents have included former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, San Francisco Mayor London Breed, and eight congressional Democrats from California. On the other side, vocal supporters have included Elon Musk, prominent Hollywood names like Mark Hamill, Alyssa Milano, Shonda Rhimes, and J.J. Abrams, and unions including SAG-AFTRA and SEIU.

The federal government is also looking into ways it could regulate AI. In May, the Senate proposed a $32 billion roadmap that goes over several areas lawmakers should look into, including the impact of AI on elections, national security, copyrighted content, and more.

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Android's latest nightmare: millions of devices infected by sneaky malware

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Android's latest nightmare: millions of devices infected by sneaky malware

You’d think an app listed on the Play Store would be safe to download. That’s what Google wants you to believe, and it’s true to a large extent. But in this digital world, no service is foolproof. 

Time and time again, there have been instances when widely downloaded apps on the Play Store were infected by malware. While Google continues to promise that the app market is safe, another incident has come to light. 

Security researchers have discovered a new Trojan malware called Necro that not only infects apps downloaded through unofficial sources but also those on the Play Store, including one with more than 10 million downloads.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

A man scrolling on his Android phone  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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How does Necro infect apps

The exact method by which both apps were initially compromised with the malware is still unclear. Researchers at Kaspersky’s Securelist believe a rogue software development kit (SDK) used for integrating advertising functionalities may be responsible for the breach. SDKs are essential tools developers use to add specific features to their apps, such as ad services, analytics or payment processing. 

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When an SDK is compromised, it can inadvertently introduce vulnerabilities into the applications that utilize it. In this case, the malware affecting the apps displayed ads in the background to generate fraudulent revenue for the attackers, installed apps and APKs without the user’s consent and used invisible WebViews to interact with paid services.

The Trojan in question, Necro, isn’t exactly new. It’s the same malware that infected a popular document scanner called CamScanner in 2019, which at that time had over 100 million downloads.

android on desk

An Android phone on a desk  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

ANDROID BANKING TROJAN EVOLVES TO EVADE DETECTION AND STRIKE GLOBALLY

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Which apps are affected?

Kaspersky researchers identified several apps affected by the Necro Trojan, including those available in Google Play. Their combined audience numbered more than 11 million Android devices.

The first affected app is the Wuta Camera, a photo editing and beautification tool. It has at least 10 million times. The Necro loader has been embedded in it starting from version 6.3.2.148. The latest version of the app, 6.3.6.148, which was available on Google Play, also had it. After the researchers reported the presence of malicious code to Google, the Trojan was removed from the app in version 6.3.7.138.

The second infected app was Max Browser. This browser, according to Google Play, has been installed more than a million times and, starting with version 1.2.0, also contained the Necro loader. Google took down the infected app from the Play Store after it was reported.

Kaspersky also found WhatsApp mods that had the Necro loader in unofficial sources. It also spotted the Spotify mod called “Spotify Plus,” which promises free access to ad-free premium services. Plus, the report mentions mods for popular games like Minecraft, Stumble Guys, Car Parking Multiplayer, and Melon Sandbox, all of which were infected with the Necro loader.

Mods, or modifications, are altered versions of original apps or games that often provide additional features or tweaks.

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An Android phone  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

ANDROID BANKING TROJAN MASQUERADES AS GOOGLE PLAY TO STEAL YOUR DATA

What is Google’s response to this?

Google is aware of the Necro malware and, as I mentioned above, it has already taken down the affected apps. A Google spokesperson provided us with the following statement:

“All of the malicious versions of the apps identified by this report were removed from Google Play prior to report publication. Android users are automatically protected against known versions of this malware by Google Play Protect, which is on by default on Android devices with Google Play Services. Google Play Protect can warn users or block apps known to exhibit malicious behavior, even when those apps come from sources outside of Play.”

THE HIDDEN COSTS OF FREE APPS: YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION 

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4 ways to protect yourself from Necro malware

1. Have strong antivirus software: Android has its own built-in malware protection called Play Protect, but the Necro Trojan proves it’s not enough. Historically, Play Protect hasn’t been 100% foolproof at removing all known malware from Android phones. The best way to protect yourself from clicking malicious links that install malware that may get access to your private information is to have antivirus protection installed on all your devices. This can also alert you of any phishing emails or ransomware scams. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

2. Download apps from reliable sources: It’s important to download apps only from trusted sources like the Google Play Store. You might say I am contradicting myself, but Play Store is still safer than other options out there. It has strict checks to prevent malware and other harmful software. However, even with the security measures provided by Google Play, downloading apps from the store does not guarantee 100% protection against malware or harmful software. Avoid downloading apps from unknown websites or unofficial stores because they can pose a higher risk to your personal data and device. Never trust download links that you get through SMS.

3. Be cautious with app permissions: Always review the permissions requested by apps before installation. If an app requests access to features that seem unnecessary for its function, it could be a sign of malicious intent. Do not give any app accessibility permissions unless you really need to. Avoid granting permissions that could compromise your personal data.

4. Regularly update your device’s operating system and apps: Keeping your software up to date is crucial because updates often include security patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities that could be exploited by trojans.

ANDROID USERS AT RISK AS BANKING TROJAN TARGETS MORE APPS

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Kurt’s key takeaways

The discovery of the Necro loader in apps like Wuta Camera, Max Browser and popular game mods shows just how serious security issues can be in the app world. With over 11 million Android devices affected, it’s crucial to be careful about where you download your apps. Unofficial sources can be a breeding ground for hidden threats, but the Play Store isn’t completely safe either. Google should look into what apps it allows on its platform. I haven’t seen as many malware issues affecting iPhone apps as there are on Android.

Do you think Google does enough to protect users from malware on the Play Store? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover

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The AR and VR headsets you’ll actually wear

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The AR and VR headsets you’ll actually wear

Hi, friends! Welcome to Installer No. 54, your guide to the best and Verge-iest stuff in the world. (If you’re new here, welcome, so psyched you found us, and also you can read all the old editions at the Installer homepage.) 

This week, I’ve been reading about AI slop and sports betting and Jony Ive, clearing my schedule for the new season of The Great British Bake Off, watching Sicario and Pirates of the Caribbean and A Quiet Place: Day One on plane-seat screens like their directors intended, insta-subscribing to Hasan Minhaj’s new YouTube show, and just relentlessly trolling people with Vergecast clips through Pocket Casts’ new feature

I also have for you a couple of new Meta gadgets, the mobile game that will eat up all your free time, a couple of hotly anticipated new movies, the best Spotify feature in forever, and much more. So much going on! Let’s dig in.

(As always, the best part of Installer is your ideas and tips. What are you into right now? What should everyone else be reading / watching / playing / trying / building out of clay this week? Tell me everything: installer@theverge.com. And if you know someone else who might enjoy Installer, tell them to subscribe here.)

The Drop

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  • Meta’s Quest 3S. My biggest issues with the Quest 3 were the price and the passthrough, and this new model appears to have solved both. It’s back in “totally reasonable game console” range, and the passthrough demos looked much sharper than before. They look great, though not as good as…
  • The limited-edition Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer. I already own two pairs of Meta’s smart glasses (don’t ask), but I am still lusting over this clear pair. They’re more expensive, and they actually undo some of the good non-gadget vibes of the other models, but they look so good.  
  • Balatro Mobile. This might be the most recommended thing in the history of Installer — I swear, every week someone tells me how much this poker roguelike has taken over their life. And now it’s on your phone! $10, no data collected, no microtransactions, my screen time is about to go through the roof.
  • Wolfs. This Clooney-Pitt Apple TV Plus movie has a fascinating backstory that says a lot about the future of Hollywood, but I also just love a big-budget flick in which movie stars say cool lines in cool ways. This appears to be exactly that.
  • The new Roku Ultra. I helped review the Google TV Streamer this week, and I really love that thing. But I’m also psyched to see Roku keep pushing — the new one’s not reinventing the wheel, but it’s faster and better, and that is a very good thing.
  • The Wild Robot. I’d really like to tell you to go see Megalopolis this weekend, but every single indication is that the movie is hot garbage. But people seem thrilled about this one, an animated flick about a stranded robot that sounds adorable and delightful and like something I’m going to end up watching 100 times.
  • The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom. A Zelda game… in which you get to play as Zelda. That’s the dream! This game doesn’t seem to be as big or awe-inspiring or platform-defining as Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom, but it sounds clever and fun just the same.
  • Spotify’s AI Playlist feature. This is terrible news for my relentless quest to quit Spotify: the AI playlists are great. Now that the feature is available in the US, I’ve been using it to name a few bands or songs, plus an overall vibe, and it picks a few dozen songs that, at least so far, always seem to hit. Spotify is very, very good at this part of the music game.
  • Social Studies. Being a kid is hard work. And this doc digs in with a group of students on how much… maybe not always harder, but definitely more complicated, social media has made being a kid in 2024. This comes from a good team, too, and I’m excited about it.
  • The Nothing Ear Open. Nothing’s headphones have been really solid, and as a recent and aggressive convert to open earbuds, I’m pumped to see how these sound. They look so cool, too! Big week for clear gadgets.

Screen share

Fun fact: Joanna Stern is the main reason I ever got a job at The Verge in the first place. (That story is long and, if I remember correctly, involves her playing a fairy in a video? But I promised her I wouldn’t tell that story.) These days, she’s a columnist at The Wall Street Journal, an Emmy winner, and most recently, the creator of Joannabot, the AI chatbot that will tell you everything you need to know about the iPhone 16. (And apparently also do some other things, if you’re clever enough, but again, we’ll leave that alone.) 

I asked Joanna to share her homescreen because she just reviewed the iPhone 16, which means she just had to set up a homescreen. And because she’s forever using new gadgets and switching between things, I was curious what always made it to the top of the pile.

Here’s Joanna’s homescreen, plus some info on the apps she uses and why:

I’m submitting my homescreen and my Control Center screen because I’m proud of the work I did on the Control Center. I may submit it for an award. But really, I’d like to just use this as a forum to complain about the all-in-one connectivity widget in the new Control Center in iOS 18. I don’t like it. I like the single buttons so I can easily just turn them on and off or long-press to get in there. Sadly, they have gotten rid of the single Wi-Fi button, but I read on this great website that it’s coming back in iOS 18.1. 

The phone: iPhone 16 Pro Max.

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The wallpaper: This is my dog Browser. It isn’t the best shot of him, but the framing is nice for putting him in the middle of the screen. My lockscreen wallpaper is this awesome retro iPod made by a designer named Shane Levine. I bought it through this site last year after featuring it in my newsletter. 

The apps: WSJ, ChatGPT, Apple Notes, Google Maps, Google Docs, Google Calendar, Instagram, YouTube, Clock, Threads, Signal, Photos, Slack, Spotify, Phone, Safari, Messages, Gmail.

My apps are so basic and make me feel so basic. I work (Slack, Gmail). I message (Messages, Signal). I listen and watch things (YouTube, Spotify). I social media (Threads, Instagram). I work more (Google Docs, WSJ). If it isn’t on this main homescreen, I usually just search for it.

Before iOS 18, I had a widget stack on the homescreen with weather and time zone widgets, but I moved it off to another screen. I might move it back. I might not. Got to live a little. 

I also asked Joanna to share a few things she’s into right now. Here’s what she shared:

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  • The Devil at His Elbow. I’m currently listening to this audiobook by my wildly talented colleague Valerie Bauerlein. It’s all about the Murdaugh murders. The writing, the details, the whole thing, is so gripping. I find myself just sitting in the garage waiting until a chapter is done.
  • Full Swing. I know I’m late to Netflix’s popular golf-u-series, but I started playing golf again this summer, and I’m loving the stories of these players and how psychological the sport really is. 
  • Take Your Pet to School Day. My 3-year-old loves this book. I don’t want to spoil it, but the pets take over Maple View Elementary, and, well, Ms. Ellen is pissed.

Crowdsourced

Here’s what the Installer community is into this week. I want to know what you’re into right now as well! Email installer@theverge.com or message me on Signal — @davidpierce.11 — with your recommendations for anything and everything, and we’ll feature some of our favorites here every week. And for even more great recommendations, check out the replies to this post on Threads.

Sliding Seas. It’s a match-three (or four!) game but also so much more: there’s real strategy required behind your moves to beat levels at the higher end, but it’s never unfair, and while there are in-app purchases and power-ups you can buy to make a level easier, you crucially never need to. It is the most compelling and well-suited-to-mobile game I’ve ever found and a gem I recommend without reservation.” – Jamie

Gisnep is another daily puzzle game, this time by David Friedman of Ironic Sans. It appears as a crossword-esque grid, but the words only go across and wrap around. The goal is to reveal both a quote and the source by filling in letters from vertical columns. I’ve gotten a number of my friends hooked already.” – Kyle

Satisfactory 1.0 launched a week ago or so. A great group of devs have effectively made a game that feels like work but is fun. If you love conveyor belts and staying up all night, this might be for you.” – Matt

“Can’t believe you haven’t mentioned switching to OmniFocus! As a fellow perennial ‘task manager switcher,’ this app is a staple in my rotation.” – Pedro

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“I previously recommended App in the Air as a great travel companion, but unfortunately, it’s shutting down. If you’re looking for an alternative, Flighty is excellent, especially for travel stats, and they’re building an importer for App in the Air users.” – Vivian

“We’ve been watching English Teacher on FX. Constant laughs and, so far, each episode has been better than the last. Easily one of the funniest shows on TV right now.” – Danial

“I was gifted the Humanscale FR300 Ergonomic Foot Rocker, which is a very tech-sounding name for a very manual / mechanical rocking footrest. It’s very pleasant to use. I’ve also been standing on it sometimes… which I’m not sure is safe but sure is fun!” – Wisdom

“Repeatedly putting in my Amazon cart the Black Milanese Loop for the Apple Watch Ultra 2. I was so close to buying it like three times. Now it’s out of stock. Even Apple says early November for shipping.” – Scott

“Been playing with different LLMs using LM Studio. Integrated it into my Obsidian vault to help summarize and organize things into specific formats. It’s been extremely cool!” – Cody

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Signing off

I’ve had back-to-back-to-back-to-back trips over the last two weeks, and I would just like to quickly shout out my new No. 1 travel hack: a wall charger that doubles as a big-ass portable battery. I have this Anker model, which is $55, charges a USB-C and a USB-A device simultaneously, and also charges itself so I can get 10,000mAh of power when there’s no outlet nearby. (There’s also a newer one with two USB-C ports and even faster charging but less battery capacity.) It’s huge and heavy, but this thing and a long cable are now the only charging gear I travel with, and they’re the only reasons my gadgets have survived trains and plane rides. Here at Installer, we love a sensible charging strategy, and this is as sensible as it gets.

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