Landline-Style Phone Designed to Cut Screen Time
Cat Goetze, known online as CatGPT, grew tired of constant smartphone use and wanted the simplicity of old-school conversations. Using a thrifted pink clamshell handset, she modified it to be Bluetooth-compatible. The quirky device quickly became the centerpiece of her apartment and later evolved into a product line called Physical Phones.
Goetze explained, “I thought it would be cute if we still had landline phones and you could twirl the cord while talking with friends. That felt nostalgic and chic to me.” Her idea resonated with thousands of people who wanted a break from digital overload.
Sales Surge: $120,000 in 3 Days
When Goetze launched her online shop in July 2025, she expected 15–20 preorders. Instead, demand exploded. Within three days, sales hit $120,000, and by October she had sold more than 3,000 units, generating over $280,000 in revenue. The phones are priced between $90 and $110, making them affordable for a wide audience.
How Physical Phones Work
The devices connect to iPhones and Android phones via Bluetooth. They ring when users receive calls from apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Instagram, and Snapchat. Outgoing calls can be made by dialing numbers manually or pressing the star (*) key to activate a phone’s voice assistant. This blend of retro design and modern functionality has captured attention worldwide.
Source Confirms Viral Success
According to Hindustan Times, Goetze has now partnered with an electronics manufacturer to scale production, with the first batches shipping in December 2025. She believes the product’s popularity reflects a growing pushback against excessive screen time and digital fatigue.
“Our attention spans are shorter. We feel more anxious. We’re less present and unable to enjoy our lives,” Goetze said. “People are starting to put their foot down and choose a different future.”
