A “dumb phone” is a type of mobile phone that doesn’t have many of the advanced features found on smartphones, such as access to the internet, apps, and touch screens. These phones are often simpler and more affordable than smartphones, and can be a good option for people who want a phone for basic communication and don’t need access to advanced features.
Dumb phones can also be helpful for people who want to limit their phone usage, or who want to use their phone in a more simplified way. As social media platforms grown in popularity, there are several movements among younger generations to try to disconnect and live a simpler life. Dumb phones are one way of disconnecting.
Most of us aren’t ready to ditch our smartphones just yet. One good way to try out a dumb phone experience, without having to buy another phone, is to turn your current smartphone into a dumb phone. There are a few different ways you can make a smartphone behave more like a dumb phone. In this guide, I will walk you through two methods that you can use to make any smartphone a dumb phone.
Method 1: Turn off or limit access to certain apps and features
You can limit the apps and features that are available on your smartphone by adjusting the settings on your device. For example, you can turn off access to the internet, social media, or messaging apps, or limit the amount of time you spend using them.
The apps and features you should turn off to limit your smartphone usage will depend on your specific needs and habits. Here are a few examples of apps and features you might consider disabling or limiting:
- Social media – Social media apps can be a major time sink, and they can also be a source of stress and distraction. Consider turning off or limiting your access to social media apps if you find yourself spending too much time on them.
- Social media messaging – If you find yourself constantly checking social media for messages, consider uninstalling the apps, or not allowing notifications. Messaging apps like Discord or Facebook can consume a lot of time and mental energy.
- Internet browsing – The internet can be a great source of information, but it can also be a major distraction. Consider turning off or limiting your access to the internet if you find yourself spending too much time online.
- Games – Games can be a fun way to pass the time, but they can also be very addicting. Consider turning off or limiting your access to games if you find yourself spending too much time playing them.
- Notification alerts – Constant notifications can be very distracting, and they can make it difficult to focus on other tasks. Consider turning off notification alerts for apps that you don’t use frequently, or setting your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode when you need to concentrate.
Remember, the key is to find a balance that works for you. You don’t have to turn off or limit access to every app or feature on your phone, but you should consider the ones that are causing you to spend too much time on your device.
Method 2: Use a dumb phone app
A dumb phone app is a type of software that allows you to turn your smartphone into a more basic device by limiting or blocking access to certain features and apps. There are a number of apps available that can help you turn your smartphone into a more basic device. These apps often allow you to set limits on your phone usage, and can even block certain apps or features altogether. These apps can be helpful for people who want to limit their phone usage, or who want to use their phone in a more simplified way.
- Forest: Forest is an app that helps you stay focused and avoid distractions by planting virtual trees that will die if you leave the app.
- Freedom: Freedom is an app that allows you to block certain websites and apps on your phone, helping you to stay focused and avoid distractions.
- Flipd: Flipd is an app that allows you to set limits on your phone usage, and even lock yourself out of certain apps or features if you exceed those limits.
- Offtime: Offtime is an app that allows you to block certain apps and features on your phone, and track your phone usage to help you find a better balance.
Ultimately, the best dumb phone app for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider trying out a few different options to see which one works best for you.
Conclusion
There are a couple different ways you can make a smartphone behave more like a dumb phone, depending on your specific needs and preferences. You can turn off or limit access to certain apps and features, use a dumb phone app to set limits on your phone usage, or use a different phone altogether if you want to take it to the extreme. The best approach for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, and it’s important to find a balance that works for you.
Have you had success with any of the methods or apps discussed in the article? Let me know in the comments!