Mobile addiction is more than just a joke between friends; This is a real problem that more and more people are facing. Being “addicted” to cell phones can be a symptom of addiction and have a negative impact on our lives, either because we ignore basic needs, or because we spend thousands of dollars on applications and games, or for many reasons. other reasons.
It is for this reason that the concept of “digital detox” has gained popularity in recent years, with methods and tips to avoid using cell phones; The problem is that this isn’t possible for many people, especially today. Thus was born the Light Phone, a phone that was just that, a phone; Because I couldn’t, I couldn’t even send messages, only enter phone numbers on the backlit keyboard.
The Light Phone 3 presented now goes much further, with functions more typical of a smartphone such as a notes application, a WhatsApp-type messaging application, and even a map application with integrated GPS. Although this may seem counterproductive, its creators concede that “most users cannot live” today without these functions; So it’s best to use a device that focuses on these tools and doesn’t offer more distractions.
For example, although the Light Phone 3 has a 50MP camera and an 8MP selfie camera, they were only installed for times when we really need them; and to prove it, The mobile cannot connect to social networks to share the photos we take, and we also cannot edit the photos directly on the device. To take photos we don’t need to access a camera app, but the device has a dedicated button that we only have to press when we need it.
Another example of how the creators of the Light Phone 3 struck a balance between user needs and digital detoxification can be found on the screen. Like the previous model, the screen is black and white
It’s not that the Light Phone 3 lacks technology. It has a fingerprint reader to unlock the system securely, integrated GPS for a map application that will show us directions, and even NFC for payment function
The Light Phone 3 also promises to be a durable device. The battery can be changed by the user by simply removing a few screws, under the “right to repair” philosophy; and is manufactured in a aluminum chassis with metal buttons designed to withstand use for many years than a typical mobile phone.
The Light Phone 3 will cost $799, but during the pre-order period it can be purchased for $399. These are high numbers for a “mobile that does nothing”, but that’s what’s interesting about the Light Phone 3: that it already does most of the things we do with our mobile.
For the future, its creators are experimenting integration of applications like Spotify, Uber or ChatGPT so that it fits your idea of “disconnect” but at the same time fulfills the function users want.