- A new $59 gadget called Brick is helping users reduce smartphone screen time by requiring physical interaction to unblock apps.
- Designed by TJ Driver and Zach Nasgowitz, the device addresses the failure of software-based screen time limits, which can be easily bypassed.
- Brick functions as a physical key; users must tap their phone to the square device to unblock selected applications like social media.
- While essential apps such as texts and maps can remain accessible, the friction of needing the physical device helps break the habit of unconsciously checking phones.
Quick Summary
Brick is a $59 physical gadget designed to help users reduce smartphone screen time by requiring a physical tap to unblock apps. The device was created by TJ Driver and Zach Nasgowitz to solve the problem of software screen time limits being easily bypassed. Unlike software solutions, Brick acts as a physical barrier to distraction.
Users download an app, create an account, and activate the device by tapping their phone to the square magnet. They can then create "Modes" to block specific apps like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. To access these blocked apps, the user must physically tap their phone against the Brick. This friction helps break the habit of unconsciously reaching for the phone. The device supports multiple iPhones and allows essential apps like texts and Google Maps to remain accessible.
The Problem with Software Limits
Smartphone addiction is a growing issue, with many users losing hours of productivity to social media scrolling. The source material describes the experience of watching "30-second clips of soup recipes I've yet to make." Traditional solutions often rely on software timers. For example, setting a daily one-hour limit for Instagram and TikTok on an iPhone.
However, these software limits are frequently rendered useless. The author notes that these limits can be bypassed with the click of a button. This struggle is what led to the creation of Brick. The core philosophy is that with software, the "key" to re-enable distractions is always present on the device itself.
With other solutions, the 'key' that re-enables distractions is always present.— Brick website
How Brick Works 🛠️
Brick operates on a simple premise: make distraction harder to access. The device is a 3D printed, 2-inch by 2-inch square magnet. It is lightweight and portable. The setup process is straightforward:
- Download the corresponding app.
- Create an account with an email address.
- Activate the Brick by tapping the top of the phone on the square.
Once activated, users can create different "Modes." For instance, a "Get to work!" mode can be configured to block Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X. While the block can be activated via the app or a physical tap, it can only be deactivated by tapping the phone against the Brick. This ensures that the user cannot simply turn off the block without retrieving the physical device.
Immediate Impact on Habits
The physical friction of using Brick creates an immediate shift in behavior. Upon starting usage, the author was confronted with the reality of their phone addiction, realizing they were unconsciously picking up their phone multiple times an hour. This served as a "major wake-up call."
By leaving the Brick in a separate location (such as a fiancé's office) during work hours, the user was forced to leave the phone untouched. The results were described as almost immediate:
- Reduced phone usage during work hours.
- Feeling less drained at the end of the day.
- Reduced notification anxiety.
Even on weekends without the device, the habit of checking social media less persisted. The device effectively bridges the gap between the intention to reduce screen time and the action of doing so.
Device Specifications
The Brick is designed to be a shared resource rather than a personal limitation. Unlike a Netflix account, there is no limit to how many iPhones can be connected to a single Brick. This allows family members or partners to share the device.
Regarding permissions, the app requires access to Screen Time data on the iPhone. This permission allows Brick to technically block and unblock apps. The device allows users to maintain access to necessary tools like text messages and Google Maps, ensuring that the phone remains a functional tool while removing the specific elements that cause distraction.
"Brick allows you to leave that key behind, turning your phone into a new, distraction-free device until you return."
— Brick website
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Brick device work?
Brick works by requiring a physical tap of the phone against the device to unblock selected applications. Users set up 'Modes' in the app to choose which apps to block, and only tapping the physical Brick can disable the block.
What apps can be blocked with Brick?
Users can choose to block specific apps such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and X. Essential apps like text messages and Google Maps can remain accessible.
