A system that makes your smartphone dumb by default
A new open project lets people keep their smartphone locked down to basics most of the time, only allowing specific apps when needed. It's aimed at people who can't fully switch to a dumbphone because of work apps.
Many people want the focus benefits of a dumbphone but can't give up their smartphone entirely because of work tools like email clients, video calls, or company apps. This project tackles that problem by building a system that blocks distracting apps by default and only unlocks them on demand or on a schedule.
In practice, apps like social media, video streaming, and news are blocked during normal use, while work apps can be opened in specific time windows. The goal is to get the distraction-free benefits of a simple phone without having to carry a second device or lose access to necessary tools.
Key points
Quick term guide
- dumbphone
- A basic phone that only does calls and texts, with no apps or internet browsing — the opposite of a smartphone.
- CLI
- A way to run software by typing commands instead of clicking buttons.
- IDE
- A software tool that combines a code editor, a way to run code, and error checking all in one app.
- build
- A chosen set of in-game abilities or items a player equips for their character.
- media
- Channels like social media, news sites, or TV used to share information.
- streaming
- Here it means text is generated continuously as you speak, rather than waiting until you finish talking.
- traction
- Proof that real people or companies are using or paying for a product.
- SEC
- The U.S. agency that oversees public companies and stock market rules.