I spent 7 days using a text-only home screen and felt my stress drop
Android Police 2026-06-18 15:15:11
Context: The author, Dhruv Bhutani, a seasoned tech journalist, conducted an experiment where he used a text-only home screen on his Android phone for seven days. He utilized the Niagara Launcher, which replaces traditional icons with a simple list of apps, to minimize visual clutter and distractions. This experiment led to Bhutani noticing a significant reduction in his screen time and a sense of calm while using his phone.
Key Facts
- The author used the Niagara Launcher, which presents apps as a simple list of text instead of icons, to reduce visual clutter and distractions on his home screen.
- The launcher allows users to choose their most frequently used apps, typically 5-6, to be displayed on the home screen, while the rest are accessible through an alphabetical navigation system.
- By using the Niagara Launcher, the author found that he spent significantly less time opening apps out of boredom or getting distracted by side quests, and felt less overwhelmed when unlocking his phone.
- The launcher's design, which displays notifications alongside apps on the home screen and automatically shows the next calendar event, contributed to the author's increased efficiency and reduced screen time.
- The author's experiment with the Niagara Launcher for seven days helped him notice patterns in his phone use, including a reduction in mindless phone use, although he acknowledges that it may not be a permanent solution to screen addiction.