Phone Addiction Tech Market

Sam Parr discusses his experience with phone addiction and a new solution called "Brick" - a physical device that limits phone functionality. He believes there's a growing market for technology that helps reduce convenience and combat tech addiction.

Key Points:

• The Brick Device:

  • $49 physical device that connects to your phone
  • Uses an app to allow only specific functions (texting, calling, email)
  • Requires physical contact with the brick to unlock other apps
  • Limited emergency override (3-5 times) before requiring brick purchase

• Market Opportunity:

  • People are seeking ways to undo convenience technology
  • Current solutions like phone pouches at comedy shows are cumbersome
  • Schools starting to implement phone restriction policies
  • Growing demand for tools that limit rather than expand functionality

• User Experience:

  • Sam tested leaving phone at home but found it inconvenient
  • Tried breaking into locked phone showing severity of addiction
  • Found Brick to be an effective middle ground solution
  • Plans to gift the device to others

• Business Potential:

  • Uses simple NFC technology with 3D printed plastic
  • Could expand to group settings (clubs, events, gatherings)
  • Price point makes it accessible for mass adoption
  • Potential for recurring revenue through replacement bricks

• Cultural Shift:

  • People building technology to reverse convenience
  • Growing awareness of tech addiction
  • Market ready for solutions that restrict rather than expand access
  • Similar to nicotine patches for phone addiction