GoKawiilConsumers pay for devices that 'brick' smartphones to curb doomscrolling
A growing number of people are buying gadgets, including a $60 plastic cube, designed to lock down smartphone features and reduce compulsive scrolling. These tools intentionally strip phones of advanced functions, pushing them back toward the simplicity of older devices.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The trend suggests a segment of consumers feel smartphone design itself works against their wellbeing, creating demand for products that counteract the very features tech companies build to maximize engagement. This could point to a broader market opportunity for 'digital wellness' hardware as an alternative to software-based screen-time controls.
- Some consumers are buying devices to deliberately limit smartphone functionality.
- One such product, a plastic cube, costs $60.
- The trend reflects growing consumer pushback against constant digital engagement.
Brick Phone Distraction Blocker — This little plastic cube pairs with your smartphone and lets you tap it to instantly disable distracting apps, helping you break the doomscrolling cycle described in the article. It's a tangible, low-tech solution for a very modern problem, letting you reclaim focus without deleting apps or giving up your phone entirely.
See Brick Phone Distraction Blocker on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: fastcompany.com, 2026-09-22
Published there as: “People are “bricking” their smartphones on purpose to stop doomscrolling”
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