Story perspectives

Brick $59 device blocks apps, users report less anxiety

By Drooid · Sep 21, 2026, 11:22 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Brick device blocks apps when users tap their phone against it.
Brick launched in fall 2023, costs $59 and requires no subscription fees.
Dr. John Puls said users experience withdrawal, cravings, and phantom notifications.
The author set Brick to block social apps from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., allowing a three-hour evening window.
After three weeks, the author noted reduced anxiety, fewer distractions, and increased real-world interactions.

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Story summary

Brick device blocks apps when users tap their phone against it.
Brick launched in fall 2023, costs $59 and requires no subscription fees.
Dr. John Puls said users experience withdrawal, cravings, and phantom notifications.
The author set Brick to block social apps from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., allowing a three-hour evening window.
After three weeks, the author noted reduced anxiety, fewer distractions, and increased real-world interactions.