One Tech Tip: Wasting too much time on social media apps? Tips and tricks to curb smartphone use

One Tech Tip: Wasting too much time on social media apps? Tips and tricks to curb smartphone use

  • 17.03.2025 06:36
  • thestar.com.my
  • Keywords: AI, Startup

The article offers various strategies to reduce smartphone and social media usage, such as deleting apps, using built-in controls, blocking distracting apps, employing physical hardware solutions, seeking therapy for deeper issues, and even downgrading to less feature-rich phones.

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Context

Business Insights and Market Implications Analysis

Key Facts and Data Points

  • Smartphone Usage: Heavy reliance on apps like Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, and X (formerly Twitter) is common among users.
  • Screen Time Reduction Techniques:
    • App Deletion: Users often delete social media apps but may reinstall them for specific tasks.
    • Built-in Controls: Apple's Screen Time and Android's Digital Wellbeing offer features like Downtime, app category restrictions, and notification silencing.
    • Third-party Apps: Tools like Jomo, Opal, Forest, Roots, and LockMeOut provide additional controls with premium features often requiring subscriptions.
    • Hardware Solutions: Products like Unpluq, Brick, Blok, Yondr, and Punkt offer physical barriers to phone usage.

Market Trends

  • Growing Demand for Digital Well-being Tools: The market for apps and hardware designed to reduce screen time is expanding.
  • Fragmented Competition:
    • Tech giants (Apple, Google) provide built-in solutions.
    • Startups offer niche products like app blockers, phone lockboxes, and grayscale display options.
  • Shift Toward Minimalist Phone Culture: A subculture of users opting for basic phones or retro devices is emerging.

Business Impact

  • Opportunities:
    • Development of digital well-being apps and hardware solutions.
    • Market for minimalist and retro phones targeting concerned parents and tech-savvy consumers.
  • Challenges:
    • Users often bypass software controls, necessitating more robust or physical solutions.
    • Balancing usability with restrictions requires careful product design.

Industry Implications

  • Regulatory Considerations: Potential future regulations addressing tech addiction and data privacy concerns.
  • Mental Health Focus: Increasing alignment between technology use and mental health awareness, creating opportunities for related therapies and products.

Long-term Effects

  • Consumer Behavior Shift: A potential move toward more mindful technology consumption, influencing product design and marketing strategies.
  • Market Expansion: Growth in niche markets for digital well-being tools and minimalist hardware solutions.