Company Offers $10K to People Who Give Up Smartphone for Month

(VINnews) — Lots of folks are concerned about the dangers that come from ‘too much smartphone’. Now one company is forking over cash to address the problem, in order to incentivize people to abstain.

“Siggi’s Dairy” is launching a Digital Detox Program–offering a prize of $10,000 if you’re willing to give up your smartphone for one month.

The prize will be awarded to 10 different people who can write the best essay on how ditching their smartphone for a month would benefit their lives.

“We’re introducing a NEW kind of ‘Dry January’ this year,” the company’s website says. “Instead of abstaining from alcohol for a month, we challenge you to ditch your smartphone!”

“We believe in the power of living a simpler life with fewer distractions. One of the biggest distractions in our lives today is our phone,” it added.

Applicants will need to submit an essay between 100 and 500 words that explains “why you need a digital detox in your life and how it will impact you in a positive way that aligns with the siggi’s brand philosophy.”

Siggi’s website says about the company’s philosophy: “Let’s truly champion less as only siggi’s can. Let’s embrace the possibilities it provides. Let’s love what we have, not what others tell us we need because we believe once you strip away artificial expectations, less sets you free. Just like our yogurt made with simple ingredients, we believe life is better with fewer distractions and more time spent on the moments that matter.”

In order to avoid people cheating with ChatGPT, the rules specifically state that AI “shall not be used to create any portion of the essay.”

In addition to 10 winners receiving $10,000 each, all winners will receive a lockbox for their smartphone, a flip phone, and a one-month prepaid SIM card.