The article discusses the challenges of smartphone addiction and doomscrolling, presenting a need for balance rather than a total retreat to ‘dumbphones.’ While many tools exist to help limit screen time, they are often easily ignored. TechCrunch highlights devices like Unpluq, which introduces physical barriers to app access, enabling users to purposefully manage their app usage. This method encourages a healthy relationship with technology by adding deliberate friction, thus allowing a more controlled engagement with digital life.
The reality for most is that downgrading to a basic feature phone is not a permanent workable solution, as society is built around internet-based tools.
Finding a middle ground is essential; we shouldn't completely ditch smartphones but instead find ways to block distractions like TikTok and news alerts.
Devices that introduce friction to our digital lives allow users to regain control without cutting off their connection entirely, balancing addiction with access.
Unpluq's NFC-enabled fob acts as a digital key to temporarily unlock apps, promoting mindful usage of technology without completely severing digital ties.
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