apps Archives | The Smartphone Free Life

Okay, so you’ve realized that this technology that is apparently so “magical” and “irresistible” is really just a tool to sell you things, and to sell you. Along the way, it just makes you more anxious, more disconnected, and worse with directions.

What do you do now?

I recognize that many of you are not interested in giving up your smartphone. But maybe you’re interested in reducing your smartphone usage. Maybe, you want to be more present in your life, or find a way out of the hole that is your social media feed. Maybe you want to feel good in real life, not just on Instagram. Maybe you know that you want to make a change.

Well, I’m here for you. Here’s the first step to figuring out what change can be made that feels authentic to you.

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One of the common objections against living without a smartphone is: “but I want to use Uber/Tinder/some-app-that-only-exists-on-mobile!“

And it’s true that a great many apps are now no longer coming out with a version for non-mobile devices. This is especially true for apps from newer companies, who have decided that if they have to put in development time on one type of platform, they should put it in the one that’s most designed for addiction. I mean, engagement.

But just because that’s how they want you to use the software, doesn’t mean that’s how you have to use the software.

I encountered this when I went to a FinCon, a financial media conference, a few months ago. While there was a Slack channel for engagement, most people in practice used the FinCon app.

Seriously, the QR code links to a URL, why can’t you just give it to me?

At this conference, I wanted to be as involved as possible in what was going on, but without a smartphone (or tablet), I needed to find another way.

Luckily, I found one.

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What is the first step in reducing your smartphone usage?

The easiest way to use mobile apps without a smartphone