Looking for a digital detox? Join Gabb’s March challenge
Feb 28, 2025, 6:00 AM
Abby Alger, Gabb content strategist, attempts to transfer her phone number from her existing smartphone to her new Gabb phone for a digital detox at the Gabb office in Lehi on Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024. (Kristin Murphy/Deseret News)
(Kristin Murphy/Deseret News)
SALT LAKE CITY — Gabb, the company behind smart devices designed for kids and teens, is challenging smartphone users to a digital detox.
This is the second year the company has hosted a digital detox challenge. During the first week of March, they’re inviting smartphone users to “take things back to 1995” by using their phones strictly for calling, texting, and photographing.
In a press release, the company said its offering up two challenges; a weekend without smart phone features such as games and social media, or an entire week.
The week-long digital detox challenge runs from March 3 through March 9, while the weekend challenge is between March 7 and March 8. Before it starts, the company recommended setting an intention.
An employee writes what she hopes to achieve during a digital detox at the Gabb office in Lehi on Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024. (Kristin Murphy/Deseret News)
Regardless of the duration you choose, Gabb’s website offers these ideas for cutting back smartphone use during the digital detox:
- disable notifications and put the phone in silent mode,
- delete apps,
- change screen settings to black and white,
- stash your phone in your car’s glove box overnight.
If you don’t want to delete apps from your phone, Lifeline Support Toolkit suggests logging out. Most smartphones also provide an option to remove the app from your home screen without fully uninstalling it.
A second alternative is to install a new app that blocks certain features, such as social media feeds. Lifeline Support Toolkit recommended “#blockit” for iPhone and “Focused: Site & App Focused” for Android.
Gabb said the goal of the digital detox challenge is to reconnect with real-life things that matter.
“Technology should serve us, not consume us. This detox is a chance for families, employees, and communities to take a step back and reset their relationship with digital devices,” said Gabb Vice President of Community Impact Lori Morency Kun.
If you’re ready to take the plunge, you can commit to the challenge here.
Coping during a digital detox
According to a recent report by Reviews.org, 43% of survey respondents said they feel addicted to their phones. Although the publication said that number was down 24% from the last survey, experts warn of the consequences of excessive smartphone use.
A study published by the National Institute of Health said overusing cell phones can lead to depression, sleep problems, and low self-esteem, among other issues.
Gabb’s digital detox website suggests setting an intention before you begin. Consider what you would like to achieve with a break from your phone, and then share it with your loved ones.
Plan activities to participate in during your digital detox. Spending the time with friends or family, catching up on self-care, or spending time with yourself can help the break feel more successful.
Finally, Gabb said it’s normal to feel uncomfortable, especially in the beginning. Planning things can help fill the time you’ll have, and journaling can help you practice mindfulness and document your experience.
As you continue with the digital detox, you may find yourself longing to check for things you may be missing — gently direct your mind back to the present.
Digital detox benefits
According to Missouri-based North Kansas City Hospital, you can reap several benefits from taking time away from screens.
For example, reducing the number of notifications you receive each day can help reduce stress and anxiety, while also increasing focus and productivity.
Similarly, you may experience a boost in feelings of presence and connection. These may in turn help you feel more connected to your loved ones or re-immerse yourself in a hobby.
In the modern world, being fully unplugged may not work all of the time. However, Everyday Health said you can still benefit, even if you unplug for just a portion of the day.
North Kansas City Hospital recommended designating tech-free zones of your home, such as bedrooms, workspaces, or the dinner table.
Everyday Health made similar recommendations, including setting time limits for certain apps or designating a time when you’ll put the tech away.
Regardless of how you choose to integrate digital detox into your daily routine, cutting back on screen time could help you find more balance in your life.
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