It's more the 3rd software companies that are optimizing the addictive parts than Apple, because that's how they make money.

Having the screen be smaller makes those software products suck enough that I don't like using them for extended periods, it's a defense mechanism against hyper optimized advertising engagement apps.

Personally I think that's a feature.

My other problem with Apple that they're only interested in the high end $750+ for their phones. The SE was comparatively a steal at $400, and nothing about the new ones is $250 more impressive. Can't be securely held one handed and adds a big screen that I don't want, so I'm not excited about paying more for it.

That's such a stupid argument. What's next? Make car seats uncomfortable so people don't commute? You vent about Apple not making a small phone, and I too think they should. But don't try to push that argument on the back of phone addiction, that's pathetic.

You could try setting the screen to grayscale. It's still functional, but less appealing.

Actually, iPhone SE is still good. Supports the latests iOS and runs quite smoothly.