In this time and age, smartphones have made a big difference. That could be taken as both good and bad, reaching a point where users are too hooked on it. Asked on how one could battle the device addiction, Apple Chief Design Officer Jony Ive believes turning to an Apple Watch could be the answer.
Speaking during a public talk at The New York TechFest, Ive was thrown a question about iPhone misuse by magazine editor David Remnick. Aware of the problem, his suggested solution was another device – the Apple Watch.
Why the Apple Watch?
The answer that Ive gave may raise some eyebrows.
Being asked to resolve a device problem and answering with another device seemed a bit off. In a way, it seemed that he used the exchange as an opportunity to promote the Apple wearable. But then again, he did give some logical points which most may accept or scoff.
As most know, the Apple Watch can be connected to an iPhone or iPad. In a way, it does eliminate the need to frequently look or have a phone when a text or phone call comes in. As far as being a distraction is concerned, the fact that one has to attend to the wearable is a distraction on its own – but perhaps to a lesser degree.
No straightforward answer
Rather than give a viable solution, the answer Ive gave was more of an alternative.
It echoes the same response Apple CEO Tim Cook gave to Fortune, alleging that they intend to infuse humanity in their products. He referred to the Apple Watch as a curated level of connection, fairly similar to the take of Ive.
With no clear answer to resolve the growing level of smartphone addiction, human users may have to take it upon themselves to control various situations.
People of all ages have grown reliant on a smartphone, aware that they can do pretty much everything at any time.
Unfortunately, most do that even when eating or in the middle of important gatherings like meetings. It may seem disrespectful though they can always place their phones on silent/ do not disturb mode or place it somewhere until they are free to tinker with it for as long as they wish.
Who is to blame?
Owning a phone is only the tip of the iceberg. Outside calls, text messages and the ability to browse the Internet, a lot may depend on the apps installed.
According to Business Insider, some ex-Silicon Valley designers blame apps for getting people too hooked on phones. That could range from social media to gaming apps, most of which end up getting users too hooked most of the time.
In the end, Apple and smartphone manufacturers will take part of the blame. There seems to be no acceptable answer, for now, meaning it all depends on the owner and how he or she disciplines himself.
