Brick by Brick: The Gadget Teaching Us to Detach from Screens
A New York Post feature follows the rise of the $59 Brick, a physical puck paired with an app that blocks selected smartphone apps until you tap your phone against it again. Users can schedule blocks (e.g., 6am–6pm) to curb doomscrolling, pushing them to reclaim real-life activities. The author tries Brick, facing initial anxiety and phantom notifications, but after weeks reports less distraction, more present time, and stronger in-person connections as routines shift toward reading, meals, workouts, and hobbies rather than endless scrolling.