ICYMI Is Digital Detoxing Being "Performatively Offline"?
Feb 4, 2026
Alex Kirshner, Slate writer and co-host of Hang Up and Listen, who writes about internet culture and tech habits. He explains why he tried the Brick device and how its physical friction changed his phone use. They compare Brick to dumb phones and apps. They also explore the irony of announcing offline moves online and whether these tools truly cut screen time.
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Bricking As A Physical Gatekeeper
- Alex Kirshner bought a Brick device to lock social apps behind a physical tap.
- He places it on his fridge so getting back online requires walking to another room and touching the magnet.
Physical Friction Beats Passcodes
- The key difference is physical friction versus digital barriers like passcodes.
- Physical steps create a real moment to reconsider impulsive re-entry to apps.
Customize Bricking For Contexts
- Customize which apps Brick blocks to match specific contexts like work or watching movies.
- Use simple presets so the device fits your routines without becoming another distraction.