The things we’re building
The article highlights recent tech and media developments featured in The Verge's 'Installer' newsletter, including new products like the Steam Controller and Zed code editor, as well as entertainment picks such as 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' and 'Widow’s Bay'. It also explores broader themes like digital minimalism and the risks of AI chatbots, with commentary from figures like John Oliver. The author emphasizes user engagement and personal tech experiences.
- ▪Valve released the Steam Controller, a highly customizable $99 gaming device designed for versatile use.
- ▪Zed, a fast code editor with AI integrations, has officially launched and is praised for its performance.
- ▪Talkie is a new AI model trained exclusively on pre-1931 text, offering a 'vintage' interaction experience.
- ▪A video titled 'I’m done renting my digital life' explores the challenges of moving away from digital subscriptions toward physical and self-hosted media.
- ▪John Oliver's segment critiques the growing trend of treating AI chatbots as personal companions.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
TechCloseTechPosts from this topic will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.FollowFollowSee All TechGadgetsCloseGadgetsPosts from this topic will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.FollowFollowSee All GadgetsStreamingCloseStreamingPosts from this topic will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.FollowFollowSee All StreamingThe things we’re buildingPlus, in this week’s Installer: The Steam Controller, The Devil Wear’s Prada, and John Oliver on AI.Plus, in this week’s Installer: The Steam Controller, The Devil Wear’s Prada, and John Oliver on AI.by David PierceCloseDavid PierceEditor-at-LargePosts from this author will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.FollowFollowSee All by David PierceMay 2, 2026,…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Verge.