Scrolling fatigue is real, and more people are ditching their smartphones in favor of simpler devices to regain control of their time, mental health, and focus.
Just ask Jose Briones, once a self-proclaimed digital junkie. After clocking 13 hours of screen time in a single day, Briones realized he was losing more than just time—he was losing himself. Since switching to a minimalist “dumbphone,” he says his life has improved dramatically: more real-life connections, less anxiety, and better focus.
He’s not alone. According to a Gallup poll, over half of Americans think they’re too glued to their phones. On average, we check our devices 205 times a day—millennials, even more. That’s once every five minutes.
So what’s the fix? For some, it’s the Light Phone or Minimal Phone—barebones devices with no social media, no internet, and no doomscrolling. Others are turning to retro flip phones or using apps like Dumbify to make their smartphones less addictive.
Experts say this move isn’t just a nostalgia trip—it’s a smart strategy to improve mental health, productivity, and sleep. Studies show that limiting mobile internet access can lead to clearer thinking and better well-being.
For others, it’s not about going completely off-grid. Small tweaks—like deleting your browser, switching to grayscale mode, or setting strict app limits—can still make a big impact.
Bottom line? Whether you’re ready to downgrade or just looking to set firmer boundaries, taking control of your screen time doesn’t require going dark—it just requires being intentional. The less you scroll, the more you gain.
So if your phone feels more like a leash than a tool, maybe it’s time to call it quits—or at least renegotiate the relationship.
