Brick Device Offers Physical Barrier Against Excessive Smartphone Use
A new device called Brick aims to help users curb excessive smartphone engagement by creating a physical barrier to app access, addressing growing concerns over digital distraction.
As personal devices continue to advance, more consumers are seeking ways to simplify their smartphones back to the basic technology of the past. Pew Research Center data indicates that over half of American adults (53%) believe they spend too much time on their phones, with a quarter reporting near-constant usage.
In response to this trend, tech company Brick, co-founded in 2023, has developed a physical "Brick" device. This small, gray plastic cube, measuring two inches on each side, utilizes NFC technology. It connects to an app on the user's smartphone, allowing them to select which applications to block. To enable these blocks, users must tap their phone on the Brick device. To disable the blocks and regain access, the same tapping action is required, introducing a physical hurdle to app usage.
Brick's creators suggest this physical intervention is more effective than built-in smartphone features like Apple's Screen Time, which can be easily bypassed. By moving the access "button" into the physical world, Brick adds an extra step that discourages impulsive app checking. If the Brick device is left at home, it effectively prevents users from returning to activities like "doomscrolling."
Internal survey data from over 3,500 customers indicates that 95% of Brick users report feeling less distracted, and 93% feel more focused. The Brick device is priced at $59. While the company has not released specific sales figures, its app reportedly sees tens of thousands of downloads each month.