Do we always need to be connected? The 3D printed “O Phone” is here to save ourselves from smartphone addiction – and it’s gorgeous.

We need phones. But do we need apps? Facebook? Instagram? Games? Messengers? Serbian studio Alter Ego Architects doesn’t think so. They’ve designed and 3D printed a phone that has no language barriers and can only be used for calling.

The backlash against smartphones is not new – but 3D printing something like this is. The white phone is only the size of a credit card. It has an e-ink screen, resembling that of an e-reading device. It includes no lettering, and even its name “O” can be read differently, depending on the language. Thanks to the high-contrast e-ink, the O Phone will be usable even in bright light (which is more than some phones are capable of), and boast a much, much longer battery life than the average smartphone.

Users will use a series of symbols and numbers to make calls and select functions. This also means the incredible printed phone features no apps. It’s a bizarre mix of high-tech and ancient tech, and that is exactly what the creators want. They have even described the phone as “badass.”

The Smart Phone Sickness

“We’re spending on average more than three hours per day – almost one day per week! – looking at our cell phones,” said the studio. “In order to ‘be more productive’, we’re trying to fit too much stuff in our day, and smartphones ‘help’ us with this.”

Maybe you don’t want to permanently get rid of your incredible smartphone. But this concept could greatly benefit those who need a basic phone. Children, elders, and those of us who need time away from connectivity. Maybe you don’t want to receive work emails on the weekend, or want to go for a walk without constantly being messaged and updated.

The O Phone is currently just a concept, but it probably isn’t long before it catches on.

(Via: Dezeen)