Matteo Bandi is a Royal College of Art graduate and his latest project, 'Sidekicks,' is designed specifically to combat the issue of smartphone addiction. Sidekicks is comprised of an alarm clock, projector, a speaker and a lamp -- all of which function naturally and encourage users to live in the moment. Every item can only function when a smartphone is plugged into it and left untouched -- once the phone is being used, then the respective object will not function.
The Sidekick lamp can be used for focusing when working at a desk, while the speakers are more dedicated towards uninterrupted leisure time. The projector aids in swaying users away from glaring screens and the alarm clock is created to mark the end of the day to combat the poor sleep patterns that smartphones can cause. Matteo Bandi explains that instead of creating a new gadget or establishing a new behavior, Sidekicks simply redesigns what already exists with a different functioning power with an underlying goal.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Smartphone Addiction Reduction
- Sidekicks are designed to combat smartphone addiction by encouraging users to live in the moment.
- Integration of Smartphone Functionality
- Sidekicks integrate smartphone functionality with everyday objects, creating a new user experience.
- Design for Digital Well-being
- Sidekicks prioritize digital well-being by reshaping the way people interact with their smartphones.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Home Furnishings
- The home furnishings industry can explore opportunities in creating objects that discourage smartphone addiction.
- Consumer Electronics
- Consumer electronics companies can innovate by integrating smartphone functionality with their products.
- Health and Wellness
- The health and wellness industry can develop products that prioritize digital well-being and promote healthy smartphone use.
