The Value of Friction and Play

Don’t shortcut life through technology
Play is intriguing because it's not about efficiency; it's about adding challenges for fun.
Obstacles can be added to increase friction which increases enjoyment.
Example: The "lava" game, where moving from one room to another becomes an obstacle course.
Example: Escape rooms, where people willingly pay to be locked up and solve puzzles, fostering camaraderie and a sense of accomplishment.
Play enhances engagement, meaning, and memorability by adding friction.

Technology offers convenience and efficiency but may lead to unforeseen losses.
Gen Z questions the value of tech making everything easier, seeking experiences with friction.
They value learning and appreciating life through challenges.
Passive consumption of content is changing how we think, feel, and relate.

Digital detox journeys and digital minimalism are becoming popular.
People are realizing that constant scrolling detracts from meaningful activities.
There's a desire to return to creative activities like writing and drawing.
Concerns are rising about the loss of focus and its contribution to loneliness, as intimacy requires time and effort.
When things are too easy, they lose their specialness.

Bottega Veneta closed social media accounts for more thoughtful, curated content.
Boring Phone (in collaboration between Bottega and Heineken) encourages less screen time.
- Features of the Boring Phone:
  - Email app without storage.
  - Taxi app that suggests talking to a bartender.
  - A very easy game.