Austrian Designer Creates Hilarious Solution to Smartphone Addiction
Vienna-based designer Klemens Schillinger has taken it upon himself to combat smartphone addiction with his creation of therapeutic objects aimed to cure even the most phone obsessed characters around.
The phone-shaped devices feature stone beads which allow users to mimic the physical hand movements of phone usage such as scrolling, swiping and zooming but all sans the screen.
Providing physical stimulation as an alternative to digital functionality, the creations give you the sensation of playing on your phone without the actual brain draining bit.
In his own words, ‘The touchscreen smartphone has made it possible to “escape” into social media. We check emails and messages not only on public transport but also in social situations, for example when having drinks with friends.’
Many people I’m sure will be able to relate to the above sentiment. The designer refers to the habit or urge to check one’s phone as ‘checking behaviour.’ Combating this behaviour is what inspired Klemens to design his beaded alternative.
The idea was born from the familiar method of giving up smoking – replacing the cigarette with something else – something that philosopher Umberto Eco did by substituting his cigarette for a wooden stick.
The acetal plastic Klemens used for the phone is quite heavy, so even the weight of your typical smartphone is mimicked in the design.
This faux phone is actually the second time he has aimed to curb technology usage through his designs. His offline lamp is the other; it only lights up once its owner gives up his or her phone. Both projects were designed for an exhibition entitled #Offline – Design for the (Good Old) Real World, which took place earlier this year at Vienna Design Week.
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.
Culture Trip Spring Sale
Save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.
