Techless Launches ‘Dumb’ iPhone to Combat Smartphone Addiction

A new device, dubbed the Sage phone, aims to address smartphone addiction by offering a stripped-down version of the iPhone. Launched on July 17, 2025, by the American company Techless, this modified iPhone 16 excludes internet access, games, and popular social media applications such as TikTok and Instagram. Priced from £99.95 per month, the Sage phone targets both children and adults seeking a healthier relationship with technology.

The Sage phone is designed to help users “reconnect with real life” by limiting distractions typical of conventional smartphones. Its creators state that the device encourages users to engage with their surroundings rather than be absorbed by digital stimuli. According to Techless, the Sage phone is “built on a foundation of digital wellbeing and simplicity,” offering a secure alternative to traditional smartphones.

Features and Functionality

This device is essentially a modified iPhone 16 equipped with custom software that restricts access to addictive applications. The Sage phone allows only essential applications, such as Phone, Messages, Maps, Calendar, and Spotify, while eliminating popular social media platforms. Notably, while the device lacks many of the features found in standard smartphones, it does provide functionalities useful for young users, such as the ability to call for a ride or capture photos during social events.

Chris Kaspar, CEO and founder of Techless, emphasized that the Sage phone is not intended as a “parental control” device. He stated, “We wanted to build a device that’s safe by design, not safe by surveillance.” Kaspar, who is a parent of six, believes that this approach offers a healthier alternative to monitoring children’s online activity.

The Sage phone is available in two models: the iPhone 16e and the iPhone 16 Pro. Both models include Apple Care but come with an initial setup fee exceeding £100. This pricing makes the device more expensive than standard two-year iPhone contracts, which typically cost less than half of the Sage phone’s monthly fee.

Addressing Online Safety and Mental Health

The launch of the Sage phone coincides with growing concerns regarding online safety and mental health issues linked to excessive smartphone use among children and teenagers. A recent report from the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) highlighted over 7,000 online grooming incidents reported in the UK within a single year, primarily affecting young individuals aged 12 to 15.

Research indicates that heavy smartphone use can lead to mental health challenges, including depression and emotional isolation. A study conducted last year suggested that approximately 20% of teenagers exhibit “problematic” smartphone use, which can escalate into more severe psychological issues.

While the concept of smartphone addiction is not officially recognized as a distinct mental health condition, its prevalence is increasingly acknowledged. Studies indicate that over 25% of the global population may experience smartphone addiction, with rates soaring to 70% in certain countries. Experts caution that while many users display problematic behavior, not all meet the criteria for addiction.

Professor Mark Griffiths from Nottingham Trent University pointed out that smartphone addiction differs from problematic use, stating, “Most children would not ever fulfill my criteria of being addicted to a smartphone.” This distinction is important as the conversation around digital consumption continues to evolve.

The Sage phone presents an alternative for those overwhelmed by the digital noise of modern life. Users can maintain essential communication while reducing distractions significantly. With its focus on digital wellbeing, the Sage phone aims to provide a practical solution for families navigating the challenges of technology in everyday life.