[zephraph]

Smartphones have had a significantly negative impact on my overall mental health. There's no denying that some of the features they provide clearly give tremendous value namely maps, messaging, and media (pictures/videos). Outside of that and limited utilities it becomes this broadly unfocused time sink that takes copious amounts of self discipline and boundaries to control. Given as an industry we've become so capable at capturing and holding user's attention there's this constant mental fixation on our phones and the continual dopamine hits they provide.

The minimalist smartphone market is developing but still rather anemic in its offering. I continue to watch companies like humane and blloc to see if they can ultimately produce something that is more compelling. Time will tell, but I feel like this is a market we really need more investment in.

[corrral]

I'd class smartphones and in fact the entire Internet as largely negative, for me. But there are a handful of uses of both that are so damn valuable that they're hard to get rid of.

I used to dream about getting rid of both completely when I retire, but the way society and tech are going I expect that means I'd almost never see or hear from my kids or future grandkids or whoever. So, stuck with the crap still, I guess.

[taylodl]

Delete all social media apps on your phone. You want none. I can access those sites from my home laptop - which provides just enough ceremony to force me to think what I'm doing. Sometimes I really do want to check in with friends and family, but at least there's just enough pomp and circumstance in order for me to do so that it dissuades the infinite scroll.