Substack TV App Expands Beyond Newsletters

Substack TV app is officially here, marking a major expansion for the newsletter-first platform as it steps into the living room. Known for empowering writers and independent creators, Substack has now launched a beta TV app for Apple TV and Google TV, allowing subscribers to watch video posts and livestreams directly on their televisions.

The Substack TV app represents a major evolution for the platform as it moves beyond newsletters into long-form video and livestreaming. With the Substack TV app now available on Apple TV and Google TV, creators can reach audiences in a more immersive, living-room viewing experience while maintaining their subscription-based model.

How the Substack TV App Works on Apple TV and Google TV

The new TV app brings Substack’s growing video ecosystem to a larger screen, featuring a TikTok-style “For You” row that highlights videos from creators across the platform. Subscribers can also browse recommended videos based on their interests and subscriptions.

Both free and paid subscribers can access the app, though viewing options depend on subscription tiers. Substack has confirmed that paid content previews for free users are planned, alongside future additions such as audio posts, read-aloud features, improved search and discovery, and in-app upgrades to paid subscriptions. Dedicated creator sections will also allow viewers to explore all videos from a single publication in one place.

Why the Substack TV App Matters for Creators

This launch is part of a broader strategy. Substack began investing heavily in video back in 2022 with video posts, followed by video monetization tools and platform-wide livestreaming in 2024. In March 2025, it introduced a short-form, TikTok-like video feed within its mobile app.

With the TV app, Substack is positioning itself more directly against platforms like YouTube and Patreon, aiming to attract creators who produce long-form, thoughtful video content rather than purely short, algorithm-driven clips.

Audience Reaction to the Substack TV App Launch

Despite the company’s confidence, user reactions have been divided. Many long-time writers and subscribers worry that Substack’s growing focus on video could dilute its original mission of elevating long-form writing. Comments on the announcement blog post highlight concerns about venture capital influence and a shift away from the written word.

Still, Substack argues that TV is a natural home for immersive, long-form video and livestreams—content designed for viewers who want to spend more time with creators they trust.

As social platforms increasingly move into TV experiences—Instagram recently launched Reels viewing on Amazon Fire TV—Substack’s TV app reflects a larger trend. Whether this evolution strengthens or distracts from its writing roots remains to be seen.

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The Rise of a True Phone-as-PC Concept

NexPhone smartphone innovation is reviving an idea many thought was buried with Microsoft’s failed mobile ambitions. Developed by Los Angeles–based Nex Computer, the NexPhone smartphone is a unique device capable of running Android, Linux, and even Windows 11 on a single handset, positioning it as a serious phone-as-PC contender.

This ambitious smartphone is designed for users who want more than just apps and notifications. NexPhone targets professionals, developers, and power users looking for a portable productivity machine that can transform into a full desktop-style computer when needed.

One Phone, Three Operating Systems

What sets the NexPhone apart is its ability to support three major operating systems. Out of the box, it runs Android 16. Users can launch Linux Debian on demand and even dual-boot Windows 11 (ARM version), offering flexibility rarely seen in mobile hardware. Nex developers have also created a Windows Phone–style interface to make Windows 11 usable on a smaller screen.

Unlike traditional mobile devices, the NexPhone smartphone allows users to switch between mobile and desktop-style operating systems depending on their workflow needs.

Hardware Built for Productivity

The NexPhone features a rugged design aimed at durability and long-term use. It is powered by the Qualcomm QCM6490 chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage. The phone sports a 6.58-inch display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making both mobile and desktop-style interactions feel fluid.

From a performance standpoint, the NexPhone smartphone is clearly designed for productivity rather than entertainment-first usage.

Additional features include 5G connectivity, wireless charging, microSD card support, video output via USB-C, and a 64-megapixel main camera using Sony’s IMX787 sensor. These specifications place the NexPhone firmly in the productivity-focused category rather than the flagship camera-phone segment.

Designed to Replace a Laptop, Not a Flagship Phone

Nex Computer is clear that the NexPhone is not meant to compete with premium consumer smartphones. Instead, it shines when paired with an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The device works seamlessly with the company’s NexDock lapdock, allowing the phone to function as a full Linux or Windows PC.

When connected to an external display and peripherals, the NexPhone smartphone behaves more like a compact desktop computer than a conventional phone.

This approach builds on a growing trend popularized by desktop modes on Android, where smartphones double as computers. NexPhone takes this concept further by offering native access to desktop-class operating systems.

Pricing and Availability

The NexPhone is currently available for reservation with a $200 deposit. The final retail price is expected to be $550, excluding taxes and shipping. Devices are scheduled to ship in the third quarter of the year, with a USB-C hub included in the box.

For users who believe the future lies in a single device doing everything, the NexPhone smartphone delivers one of the most practical implementations of the long-promised phone-as-PC vision.

For users who believe the future lies in a single device doing everything, the NexPhone may finally deliver on that long-promised vision.

Also Read: Smart Reasons Google AI Mode Personalization Is Changing Search Forever

Google AI Mode personalization is entering a new phase as Google rolls out a feature called Personal Intelligence, designed to deliver highly tailored search responses by securely connecting with user data from Gmail and Google Photos. This update marks a significant shift in how conversational search works, moving from generic answers to context-aware assistance that fits directly into a user’s daily life.

Google AI Mode personalization changes how users interact with search by combining conversational AI with real-life context from Gmail and Photos. With Google AI Mode personalization enabled, search results become more relevant, timely, and aligned with user preferences without requiring repeated inputs or explanations.

How Google AI Mode Personalization Works with Gmail and Photos

Personal Intelligence is an opt-in capability that allows Google’s AI Mode to reference selected information across a user’s Google ecosystem, including Gmail, Photos, Search, and YouTube history. Initially introduced in the Gemini app, the feature is now expanding to AI Mode for Google AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers in the U.S., available in English.

Google says the goal is simple: reduce friction. Instead of repeatedly explaining preferences, schedules, or interests, users can get meaningful responses instantly. For example, while planning a family vacation, AI Mode can look at hotel bookings stored in Gmail and past travel photos in Google Photos to suggest activities that genuinely match family preferences.

Google AI Mode Personalization Improves Travel and Shopping Searches

Unlike traditional search results that show a standard list, Google AI Mode now provides a personalized starting point. If you are shopping for a coat for an upcoming trip, the AI can factor in your destination and travel dates from Gmail, along with your brand preferences, to recommend weather-appropriate options that match your style.

Google also highlights creative use cases such as generating personalized scavenger hunts for anniversaries or helping parents design children’s bedrooms using themes aligned with past interests and searches.

Privacy Controls in Google AI Mode Personalization

While the feature relies on personal data, Google emphasizes that AI Mode does not directly train on Gmail inboxes or Photos libraries. Instead, it processes individual prompts and responses. Users maintain full control, with the ability to enable or disable Personal Intelligence at any time.

By integrating AI Mode with existing Google services, the company is positioning itself ahead of competitors who lack access to such a rich, interconnected data ecosystem. For users willing to opt in, Google AI Mode aims to feel less like a tool and more like a truly personal assistant.

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