All boxed in, and free at last

A search of the phrase shouji geli he (mobile phone isolation box) on Taobao brings up several stores whose products are similar in what they do, namely requiring the phone to be placed in a box secured by a time lock.

After a phone is placed in some of the boxes, the phone cannot be used or manipulated other than charging it, but some boxes have a panel on the outside that signals when there are incoming calls, including WeChat audio, which can be answered.

A description page on Taobao says these boxes can be adapted to almost all types of mobile phones on the market. The locking time generally ranges from one minute to 12 hours, and the price is generally about 100-200 yuan.

The owner of Xianfeng Technology says: "Our main customers are students, such as those preparing for postgraduate studies, or middle and high school students to a lesser extent. They usually ask for engraving on the box when buying, such as some inspirational quotes or the target colleges they want to be admitted to.

"Some parents who feel their children are wasting time on Douyin and ruining their studies are also buying them."

Market prospects for the store's boxes are good, Xianfeng Technology says.

"As people become heavily reliant on mobile phones, many are realizing they need something that can keep them away from them, and this physical box is much better and direct than software on phones."

Xiangfeng's after-sales comment section is filled with positive comment from buyers who say the box has helped them become more self-disciplined.