HMD Global introduced a new feature for Nokia smartphones called Digital Detox, aimed at helping users reduce the time spent on social networks without completely disconnecting from their smartphones. Users can selectively block applications and contacts, choosing which ones to restrict, whether they are social networks, email clients, or other distracting programs. The feature can be activated through a widget on the main screen or via the smartphone settings panel.
Digital Detox allows users to block up to 14 categories of applications with the option to create exceptions. When activated, the icons of blocked applications are replaced by black circles with lock symbols, indicating their inaccessibility for a set period of time. Users can choose between soft lock, which can be manually disabled, and hard lock, which remains in effect until the specified time expires. The blocking can be set for intervals ranging from one hour to 24 hours.
Despite its potential benefits, some users have noted that the blocking of applications does not extend to web browsers, allowing access to social networks through browsers even if the corresponding applications are blocked. However, HMD Global has plans to address this limitation in future updates. The Digital Detox feature distinguishes itself from third-party solutions by being more difficult to circumvent, offering a built-in tool within the operating system to help users focus on important tasks.