Adding Artificial Latency to Websites to Reduce Internet Addiction
The article explains how intentional network latency can curb excessive internet use, cites data showing sales loss per 100 ms delay, and provides practical methods using tools like Crackbook Revival, Charles Proxy, and Network Link Conditioner to introduce controlled delays on desktops, laptops, and mobile devices.
In the software industry, revenue and potential income from consumer networks are closely tied to access latency, as lower latency helps retain users and improve conversion rates.
Data points include Amazon’s finding that every 100 ms of latency costs 1% of sales, and articles on how mobile page speed benchmarks and loading time affect the bottom line.
The author notes that most software developers heavily use consumer networks, often to the point of addiction, and suggests that deliberately adding latency could reduce this addiction without completely removing internet enjoyment.
A 100 ms delay on Hacker News feels like strong liquor, while a 9000 ms delay feels like weak beer.
A 150 ms delay on Reddit feels like poison, whereas an 8000 ms delay feels like coffee.
The goal is to create a psychological response by diluting heavy internet usage, similar to how ancient Greeks diluted wine.
How to implement
For browsers on laptops or desktops, the author recommends Crackbook Revival , which allows a configurable site list and a linear increase in latency over time.
For other desktop applications, use Charles Proxy with its throttling feature, keeping it permanently enabled.
On iOS, enable Developer Mode and permanently turn on the Network Link Conditioner.
On Android, either use Charles Proxy over Wi‑Fi or tether an iPhone running the Network Link Conditioner as a hotspot.
Additional anti‑addiction methods
Use ad‑blockers to hide YouTube thumbnails, avatars, and intrusive previews.
Browse without an ad‑blocker only when necessary.
Install extensions to remove YouTube comments.
Force Reddit to use the old style without infinite scrolling.
Switch from Reddit to Hacker News or early‑style forums.
Remove Facebook due to its complexity and bias.
The author has deliberately reduced his own internet consumption, likening the experience to drinking diluted alcohol.
References and links to the original article and the mentioned tools are provided at the end.
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