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My Phone Digital Detox Journey

· 3 minutes de lecture
Naim LARIF
Naim LARIF
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In an era where our phones have become extensions of ourselves, I've decided to embark on a digital detox journey - specifically focusing on reducing my phone usage while maintaining my laptop productivity.

The Mobile Developer's Paradox​

As a mobile developer, my relationship with phones is quite unique. I actively work on Track App, a professional CRM solution, and need my phone for testing, market research, and understanding the mobile ecosystem. However, this professional usage is fundamentally different from the mindless social media scrolling and entertainment that I'm trying to reduce.

The key distinction is purpose: when I use my phone for development or Track App CRM, it's intentional, time-boxed, and productive. These professional tools are designed to enhance work efficiency, not to capture attention through addictive mechanisms like social media feeds.

Why a Phone-Specific Digital Detox?​

While technology is essential for my work and projects, I've noticed that phone usage often leads to mindless scrolling and time waste. Unlike laptop usage which tends to be more purposeful and work-oriented, phone usage can easily slip into unproductive habits.

My Current Approach: iOS Screen Time​

I'm starting with iOS's built-in Screen Time features, specifically:

  • Downtime: Setting specific hours where only essential apps are available
  • App Limits: Restricting daily time limits for social media and entertainment apps
  • Focus Modes: Creating custom modes for different parts of my day (tested for a while but not meeting my expectations)

Exploring the Dumbphone Alternative​

As a more radical solution, I'm also researching various "dumbphones" or minimalist phones. Here are some interesting options available in France:

Nokia/HMD Phones​

  • Various basic phone models
  • Inconsistent availability in France
  • Mix of 2G/3G/4G depending on model
  • Quality and features vary by model
  • Uncertain future support

Punkt MP02​

  • Premium minimalist design
  • 4G VoLTE support
  • High build quality
  • Signal messaging
  • High price (+€300)

AGM M6/M7​

  • Rugged build quality
  • Water and dust resistant
  • Long battery life
  • Affordable price point
  • Basic features with 4G

Panasonic KX-TU446EXB​

  • Senior-friendly design with large buttons and high-contrast display
  • Simple menu interface
  • Extended battery life
  • Perfect for basic communication

TCL Onetouch 4042S / TCL OneTouch 4043​

  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Basic calling and messaging
  • FM radio functionality
  • Reliable battery performance
  • Affordable

Mudita Pure​

  • E-ink display for eye comfort
  • Ultralow SAR value
  • Open source software
  • Premium minimalist design
  • USB-C charging
  • No internet connectivity
  • High price (+€300)

Next Steps​

I'll be testing the iOS Screen Time restrictions first, and if I feel the need for a more drastic change, I might experiment with one of these dumbphones. I'll share updates about this journey in future posts.

info

Since the writing of this article I switched to a TCL Onetouch 4042S