What is the story about?
US-based tech founder Cat Goetze has launched a modern landline phone designed to help users cut down on screen time. The device focuses on simple calling features, avoiding social media notifications and distractions.
Goetze, who goes by CatGPT on social media, described it as a retro-style landline phone with a handset and buttons that connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth.
The device, called Physical Phones, can receive internet-based calls from apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Instagram, letting users talk without constantly looking at their screens.
How do Physical Phones work?
Simply turn on the device, and it announces ‘power on’. In your phone's Bluetooth settings, select Physical Phone and pair it. You can then keep your smartphone aside, say, in a drawer, allowing you to avoid continuous phone use.
What happens if someone needs to reach you?
When someone calls your smartphone, the landline rings. To place a call while away from your phone, pick up the handset, press the star (*) button, and say the name of the contact you wish to call. The phone uses Siri to dial anyone in your contacts.
How social media users reacted
The launch of Physical Phones has received mixed reactions.
Some users applauded the concept, saying it's a clever way to reduce screen time while still staying connected. Others questioned the need for such a product, arguing that people could simply put their smartphones aside without buying a new device.
One wrote, "Not a landline. Mobile will still need to be charged and turned on. Siri is a spybot. Constant Bluetooth signals are harmful just like wifi. This is not a solution, this is just pretend, at an extra cost."
Another commented, "Get the landline no. And switch the phone off, that way you'll soon start remembering phone nos. Too."
"I've been searching for this product for years, just for the sake of nostalgia," wrote the next.
One person recommended, "You should include a small caller ID screen on the phone, so you know who’s calling."
How to order
According to Goetze, some units will be available by Christmas, while others will be available for pre-order in February. Those who order for Christmas will also receive a free holiday card. The phones come in limited quantities and are available in five or more colours and designs.
How much does it cost?
The new Physical Phones come in five different handset styles, with prices ranging from $90 to $110. This gives users options to choose a design they like.
Initial Reveal Online
In July 2025, Cat Goetze, the founder, revealed the device online. She said the response was instant, with hundreds of people commenting that they wanted to buy it. Initially, Goetze expected only 15 to 20 preorders. But the interest was much bigger than expected. Her project made $120,000 in sales within just three days.
By the end of October, she had sold more than 3,000 units, and total revenue had crossed $280,000.
Goetze, who goes by CatGPT on social media, described it as a retro-style landline phone with a handset and buttons that connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth.
The device, called Physical Phones, can receive internet-based calls from apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Instagram, letting users talk without constantly looking at their screens.
How do Physical Phones work?
Simply turn on the device, and it announces ‘power on’. In your phone's Bluetooth settings, select Physical Phone and pair it. You can then keep your smartphone aside, say, in a drawer, allowing you to avoid continuous phone use.
What happens if someone needs to reach you?
When someone calls your smartphone, the landline rings. To place a call while away from your phone, pick up the handset, press the star (*) button, and say the name of the contact you wish to call. The phone uses Siri to dial anyone in your contacts.
How social media users reacted
The launch of Physical Phones has received mixed reactions.
Some users applauded the concept, saying it's a clever way to reduce screen time while still staying connected. Others questioned the need for such a product, arguing that people could simply put their smartphones aside without buying a new device.
One wrote, "Not a landline. Mobile will still need to be charged and turned on. Siri is a spybot. Constant Bluetooth signals are harmful just like wifi. This is not a solution, this is just pretend, at an extra cost."
Another commented, "Get the landline no. And switch the phone off, that way you'll soon start remembering phone nos. Too."
"I've been searching for this product for years, just for the sake of nostalgia," wrote the next.
One person recommended, "You should include a small caller ID screen on the phone, so you know who’s calling."
How to order
According to Goetze, some units will be available by Christmas, while others will be available for pre-order in February. Those who order for Christmas will also receive a free holiday card. The phones come in limited quantities and are available in five or more colours and designs.
How much does it cost?
The new Physical Phones come in five different handset styles, with prices ranging from $90 to $110. This gives users options to choose a design they like.
Initial Reveal Online
In July 2025, Cat Goetze, the founder, revealed the device online. She said the response was instant, with hundreds of people commenting that they wanted to buy it. Initially, Goetze expected only 15 to 20 preorders. But the interest was much bigger than expected. Her project made $120,000 in sales within just three days.
By the end of October, she had sold more than 3,000 units, and total revenue had crossed $280,000.
