ZENTRA: A charger that motivates to stay focused

In order to learn, the human mind has to concentrate for a longer, uninterrupted time. But today, distraction is ubiquitous, especially in the shape of our smartphone. Phones are powerful devices, yet, rather than taking advantages of the advanced computers in our palms, we loose ourselves in a never ceasing flow of news, videos and messages.  The moments of focus, inner calm and reflection are increasingly vanishing from our lives, being replaced by mindless scrolling and media consumption.

Inspired by Zen-culture, ZENTRA is a charger for your phone, designed to create a clear boundary between the times of focus and leisure. Once the phone is placed inside, a flower of light starts blooming slowly, motivating the user to keep concentrating. Hiding the phone from the user, the temptation of using it is reduced, allowing for uninterrupted working. After 40 Minutes, the flower is fully illuminated and rewards the user for his concentration and discipline. As soon as the phone is removed, the light gradually vanishes, reminding the user about the time of leisure and encouraging him to return the phone.

This project aims at removing the phone from moments of concentration, identifying it as a source of disturbance and distraction. Without demonizing these powerful devices, Zentra tries to animate to a more mindful relationship to our phones.