Sun, 25 Jan 2026

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 Should smartphones be locked away at gigs and in schools?

Some artists already ban phones at their gigs while some headteachers say locking them away helps children learn.
Phone-Free Concerts on the Rise Several high-profile musicians, including Sir Paul McCartney and Dave Chappelle, have started embracing phone-free concerts by requiring fans to lock their phones away during performances. McCartney's recent concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl featured a "lockdown" on selfies and filming, with all 4,500 fans placing their mobile phones in magnetically locked pouches for the duration of the show. The former Beatle praised the phone-free environment, saying it allowed fans to be more present and enjoy the music. The concept of phone-free spaces is gaining traction, with several companies offering lockable pouches that can be used in various settings, including schools, theatres, and art galleries. These pouches are designed to keep phones away from distractions during events or lessons, allowing people to focus on the moment. Benefits of Phone-Free Environments Proponents of phone-free environments claim they have several benefits, including improved academic performance, reduced bullying, and increased social interaction. A study by Yondr, a company that offers lockable pouches, found that schools that adopted a phone-free policy saw notable improvements in student behavior and academic achievement. Government Support for Phone-Free Schools The UK government has launched a consultation on banning social media for under-16s, and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has said her party would seek to ban smartphones from schools if it enters office. Labour's education spokesperson, Wes Streeting, has also expressed support for phone-free schools. Growing Demand for Phone-Free Events As the demand for phone-free events grows, companies like Yondr are seeing a surge in enquiries and sales. Paul Nugent, founder of Hush Pouch, says he is getting many requests from parents and event organizers to provide lockable pouches for weddings, theatres, and film sets. The Impact on Society Experts warn that the constant use of smartphones can have negative effects on mental health, social interaction, and critical thinking skills. Graham Dugoni, founder of Yondr, says we are reaching a crossroads where it's essential to reassess our relationship with technology and consider the implications for society as a whole. McCartney's phone-free concert may be just the beginning of a movement towards a more mindful and present approach to entertainment and daily life.
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