Bricking your phone is the new Dry January

Brick is a gadget that lets you block your apps of choice with a tap of your phone.

Brick

• More people are giving up screentime for their 2026 New Year's resolutions.
• Some are using Brick, a physical gadget that helps you block apps on your phone.
• Interest in Brick reflects a larger interest in phone-free lifestyles, particularly among Gen Zers.

Almost a year ago, I bought Brick, a $59 gadget that physically blocks smartphone apps. I didn't expect it to turn me into an evangelist.