BACKGROUND Digital technology has the potential to transform how patients engage with mental health services. There is promising evidence regards feasibility, acceptability and efficacy of digital systems in psychosis. However, research to date has largely ignored patients' perspectives of these systems. OBJECTIVE We explored early psychosis patients' subjective views of mobile technology in the mental health setting. METHODS Qualitative framework analysis on data from 21 semi-structured

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... ews with patients registered with early intervention for psychosis teams. Robust measures were taken to develop a stable framework, including member-checking, triangulation of analysis, independent verification of themes, and consensus meetings. RESULTS Four themes were established a priori: acceptability of technology in mental health; technology can increase access to, and augment, mental health support; barriers to adopting digital solutions; data protection, privacy and security of information. Two themes were generated a posteriori: digital interventions as an adjunct to, or replacement for, usual care; empowerment, control and choice. CONCLUSIONS In the first study of its kind, early psychosis patients reported digital tools were an acceptable and accessible method for mental health support. Digital tools could enhance access to care by extending the reach of services to one's natural environment, facilitating honest communication. Digital systems were viewed as progressive, modern and relevant. Potentially de-stigmatising, they can overcome access barriers patients face within traditional service settings. Digital tools facilitate empowerment, affording patients meaningful choice and the opportunity to take active control of their healthcare. Concerns were expressed about the management of data security, safety and risk information. CLINICALTRIAL NA