Your phone — right where you’re already looking.
Phones tend to end up flat on a desk while we work — off to the side, face down, or constantly being picked up just to check notifications, timers, or reference content. Over time they add clutter and break focus, even though we rely on them all day.
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Overview
STEPH was designed to give your phone a natural home while working — up at eye level, out of the way, and always within easy view. By using the top edge of a screen, it keeps desks clear while making your phone more accessible than ever.
What It Is & How It Works
STEPH is a compact, 3D-printed, print-in-place phone holder that mounts directly on the top edge of laptops, flat monitors, and tablets.
When deployed, it securely supports your phone at a comfortable viewing angle. When not in use, it folds down into a slim, pocket-sized form that can be stored in a bag, drawer, or desk organizer. It can also be used as a small desktop phone stand when screen mounting isn’t needed.
Everything prints as a single assembled piece — no hardware, fasteners, or post-assembly required.
Key Parts & Mechanisms
STEPH is built around a set of compliant, indexed mechanical joints that allow smooth motion while holding firmly in place.
The upper support arm holds the phone securely, while the lower mounting arm hooks over the top edge of the screen and braces gently against the back for stability. The indexed joints provide defined angle positions so the phone doesn’t drift or wobble over time.
Fine adjustment features allow STEPH to accommodate different phone thicknesses — with or without a case — as well as small viewing angle changes for comfort.
Size & Dimensions
One of the main goals with STEPH was to keep it as compact as possible without sacrificing strength or usability.
When folded, it collapses into a slim, pocket-sized form that takes up very little space. Compared to the original Phone Multi Widget, STEPH is significantly smaller while remaining highly functional.
This makes it easy to keep in a laptop bag, drawer, or desk organizer when not in use.
Printing Notes & Recommended Settings
STEPH is a high-precision print-in-place design and benefits from a well-tuned, properly calibrated printer.
It prints in the provided orientation with no supports required. Proper first-layer adhesion and clean extrusion help ensure the compliant joints move freely after printing.
Recommended slicer settings are shown in the accompanying documentation images.
Post-Print Setup & Motion Release
Once printed, STEPH may feel stiff at first — which is intentional for long-term firmness.
Gently flex each joint through its full range of motion to free the compliant areas. Light, controlled movement will release any minor bonding between layers and allow the joints to move smoothly.
After a few cycles, STEPH will settle into a smooth, firm, and satisfying motion.
Assembly (If Required)
STEPH is a true print-in-place design.
No assembly, hardware, adhesives, or fasteners are required. Once the joints are freed, it is ready to use straight off the printer.
Everyday Use & Operation
STEPH is designed for everyday workspaces where phones are constantly checked but don’t have a natural place to sit.
Mounted on the top edge of a screen, it keeps your phone:
- comfortably within your line of sight
- easy to glance at without breaking focus
- off your desk and out of the way
It works especially well for notifications, video calls, timers, reference content, tutorials, and media playback.
When not needed, it folds flat in seconds.
Why This Design Exists
STEPH was created to solve a small but constant workspace annoyance — phones rarely have a good place to live while working.
Rather than adding another desk accessory, STEPH uses space that normally goes unused and turns it into something functional.
Like the original Phone Multi Widget, STEPH follows a satisfying kinetic mechanical design philosophy that transforms from compact to functional through clever motion. Where the Phone Multi Widget explored versatility across many environments, STEPH refines that idea into a simpler, purpose-built tool for modern screens and workspaces.
Together, they represent a continuing focus on compact, mechanically clever designs that make everyday life a little more organized and enjoyable.
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