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Meadow lets you leave your smartphone at home without sacrificing the essentials

“We’re not Luddites... it’s just we don’t want social media, browsing, and that kind of stuff," said 25-year-old founder Shreyas Narlanka.

Meadow, a minimalist smartphone, lets users leave their regular device at home without sacrificing essential features. Founder Shreyas Narlanka explains that the company's mission is to promote unplugging and fostering social connections. Meadow runs on Android and supports popular apps like Maps, Uber, and Apple Music. Users can also make calls and send texts using a new subscription plan that provides a separate number for the device.

The company encourages the use of the iPhone's "driving" focus feature to inform contacts that the user is out with Meadow. Despite some minor issues, such as a glitch with Uber rides and a less-than-ideal camera, Meadow effectively helps users disconnect while still staying connected. Meadow's co-founder, who dropped out of UC San Diego to start the company, raised funding from notable investors, showcasing the growing demand for simpler, less connected devices.

Written by urgent.news from TechCrunch's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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