I made my phone slow on purpose

A user on Hacker News announced that they bought a new iPhone 17 and deliberately slowed its internet speed to curb compulsive doomscrolling. This self-imposed restriction is an unconventional attempt to address digital addiction and improve wellbeing.

The individual developed an iOS app called VineWall that controls internet speed for certain apps, gradually throttling bandwidth to make content less accessible and less appealing. Initially, the app caps internet speed at levels comparable to a poor cellular connection, causing videos to appear blocky and images to load slowly. As scrolling continues, the throttling intensifies, leading to more frequent loading spinners and gray boxes instead of images or videos. The user explained that this process makes the phone’s content less enticing, encouraging less mindless browsing. The approach was motivated by frustration with traditional methods like app blockers, which proved ineffective for them, and a desire to alter the ‘cookie machine’ in their pocket— their smartphone — to reduce the craving for constant content consumption.

Why It Matters

This development highlights a novel, self-directed method of managing digital addiction by physically impairing the device’s content delivery. It raises questions about alternative wellbeing tools and the extent to which users can modify their devices to promote healthier habits. The approach also underscores ongoing concerns about the addictive nature of social media and streaming platforms, and innovative ways individuals are experimenting to regain control.

Background

The concept stems from the widespread recognition of doomscrolling as a psychological issue. Traditional solutions include app blockers and digital detoxes, but these often fail to address underlying cravings. The user’s method reflects a DIY approach to digital wellbeing, inspired by behavioral economics and control theory. It follows broader conversations about designing technology that supports healthier usage patterns, especially as devices become more integral to daily life. The practice is part of a growing trend where users customize their devices to better align with personal wellbeing goals.

“Making the phone slow on purpose was my way of making the ‘cookie’ less tempting and more stale.”

— the user on Hacker News

“By throttling internet speed, I aimed to reduce the addictive pull of constant content and make scrolling less rewarding.”

— the developer of VineWall

What Remains Unclear

It is not yet clear how sustainable or effective this method will be over the long term, or whether it could have unintended consequences such as frustration or reduced productivity. The user’s experience is anecdotal, and broader adoption or scientific validation has not been established.

What’s Next

Further testing and user feedback will determine whether this approach can be refined into a practical digital wellbeing tool. Developers may explore automating or optimizing throttling settings, and researchers might investigate its psychological impact. The user plans to continue monitoring their habits and adjust the app accordingly.

Key Questions

Does slowing the internet speed on my phone actually reduce my screen time?

It can make content load more slowly and appear less appealing, potentially discouraging excessive scrolling for some users.

Is this method safe for my device or data?

Using custom apps to control internet speed should be safe if developed properly, but users should ensure apps are from trusted sources and understand the potential impact on device performance.

Can I use this approach on any smartphone?

This specific method was implemented on an iPhone using a custom app; similar functionality may require different tools or permissions on other devices.

Will slowing my phone’s internet make it unusable?

It will degrade the quality of streaming and loading, but basic functions like texting and calls should remain unaffected.

Is this a common practice among digital wellbeing advocates?

No, this is an unconventional, DIY approach; most advocates recommend app-based blockers or mindful usage strategies.

Source: Hacker News