This is a small (kinda derpy?) $1 object from IKEA that basically everyone I know would totally benefit from.
It’s compact enough that they treat it like a keychain, but it’s sturdy with a slightly grippy surface that is safe for your phone and helps it stay stable even in precarious places.
It has different slots for horizontal or vertical viewing, and while ergonomically it might be better to use something like a Gooseneck Tablet/Phone Holder, this is still a huge upgrade from staring down at your phone in your hand. (And as with my recommendations for binoculars and cameras—in many cases, the “best” one is the one you have with you.)
I use it to hold my phone above/behind the sink while I’m washing dishes (greatly increasing the frequency I’m willing to actually commit to the whole process rather than just doing it piecemeal with Foaming dish soap), or at the table having a snack.
I’m sure there are more sophisticated options, but at this price and with this level of functionality, these will be my go-to stocking-stuffer this year. 🎅
I’m also adding it to my travel recommendations as an option for setting your phone up on your tray table and watching content on a flight.
My bestie keeps it in his backpack at all times, and I was recently on a flight where I was able to offer mine to the guy sitting next to me who had resorted to leaning directly over his tray table to stare down at the movie playing on his phone laying flat because he’d gotten tired of holding it up—they’re cheap enough that you could easily make a habit of gifting them in situations like this and spreading a little joy in the world.
(Note: I don’t use a case for my phone and I don’t think that a thick case would work with this stand.)
Ikea also carries a cuter, less mobile option that I keep on my desk. It has multiple angles to choose from and it also happens to work as a perfect stand for My Favorite Weekly Planner, pen, and chapstick.
(it’s a chair 🙃)
