‘My social life completely plummeted’: gen Z is fighting back against big tech
Summary
Some members of Gen Z are using app blockers, simpler phones and in-person event apps to reduce time on social media. Companies offering digital detox tools are targeting this demand, while one student’s research helped advance Illinois measures related to children’s social media use.Key Facts
- Canadian university student Nelissa Moukoudi, 19, said her social life declined after she joined Instagram and TikTok.
- Moukoudi uses Opal, which requires users to solve math problems before reopening selected distracting apps.
- The article estimates the digital detox industry is worth nearly $1 billion and could reach nearly $8 billion by 2035.
- An April poll cited in the article found nearly 60% of Gen Z respondents identified as having a social media addiction; a 2025 survey found a third had deleted some social media apps.
- Kendall Schrohe, 23, said she replaced her smartphone with a $349 Light Phone, which has limited features.
- Duke University student Shreya Nallamothu created a DIY app-blocking device using $8 near-field communication tags.
- The article says Nallamothu’s research helped Illinois state senators advance a bill to prevent parental exploitation of children on social media, and the state passed a law requiring parents to compensate their children.
- The event app Pie grew from 120,000 users in July to 300,000 in August, a 150% increase, according to the article.
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