It’s not always clear whether today’s best camera phones have made life better or worse. It’s great to have so much information at our fingertips wherever we are, but it’s also so distracting before we even get to the trap of social media doom scrolling.
Designers Propose a Simple Solution to Screen Addiction
Some people have been looking to cure their screen addiction by going low tech, leading to a resurgence of interest in dumbphones. Others resort to placing restrictions on their phone use via timers for certain apps. But one group of designers has a solution so simple it seems obvious: just cover up the screen.
Introducing Aperture
Special Projects, a British design and invention agency, has come up with a concept called Aperture, which transforms existing phone cases into a smart display that helps you stay focused. The idea is to turn the camera lens window on many phone cases around so that it covers the front of the phone instead of the back.
How it Works
Special Projects’ app will use the lens hole to show a small portion of the display and present key information from priority apps in a minimalist format. The user would be able to use voice controls and call up the information needed at any given time, be it directions via a maps app or instructions for a recipe you’re following in the kitchen. By using AI, it would remove all other distractions like ads or unnecessary information.
Features and Functionality
The Aperture case would allow users to remove the cover to use their phone normally, but the idea is that this would create just enough friction to dissuade people from automatically doing so when they’re in the middle of something else. The concept also includes some novel UI features, such as the ability for groups of people to flip their cases and recognize each other, creating fun interactions before switching off to encourage the phones’ owners to “stay present”.
Practicalities and Limitations
The Aperture is only a concept for now, and it could face some practical issues. Not all phone cases fit the other way around, so it may require a specially made case – Special Projects says it’s working with manufacturers on this. Users would also have to be comfortable granting the permissions necessary to the app that controls it.
Conclusion
The Aperture is an interesting concept that challenges the way we think about phone use. While it may not be a perfect solution, it’s at least inspiring reflection about screen time and how we can stay focused in a world where distractions are everywhere.
FAQs
Q: Is Aperture a real product?
A: No, Aperture is a concept design for now. Special Projects is working on making it a reality.
Q: Will I need a special case for my phone?
A: Yes, Aperture requires a specially made case that can be flipped around to cover the front of the phone. Special Projects is working with manufacturers to make this a reality.
Q: Will I be able to use my phone normally with Aperture?
A: Yes, you will be able to remove the cover to use your phone normally. The idea is to create just enough friction to dissuade people from automatically doing so when they’re in the middle of something else.
Q: Will I need to grant permissions to the Aperture app?
A: Yes, users would need to grant permissions to the app that controls Aperture. This would allow the app to access the necessary information and provide the desired functionality.
