Smartphones in Schools and Concerts: The Rise of Phone-Free Spaces
Friday, 2026/01/30217 words3 minutes1584 reads
A new trend is emerging in schools and at music concerts: the creation of phone-free spaces. This is achieved through the use of lockable pouches that temporarily store smartphones, preventing their use during specific times.
In schools, these pouches are being adopted to help students concentrate better on their studies. Headteachers report improvements in academic performance and reductions in bullying. While some argue that simply banning phones would suffice, advocates say the pouches address the anxiety and 'fear of missing out' associated with smartphones.
At concerts, artists like Paul McCartney have embraced phone-free performances. Fans put their devices in locked pouches, which they keep with them but can't access until after the show. Many performers appreciate this setup, saying it allows them to connect better with the audience and even experiment more with their performances.
The company behind these pouches, Yondr, was founded by Graham Dugoni after he witnessed privacy concerns at a music festival. Now, their technology is used in schools across America and the UK, as well as in theaters and art galleries.
While the cost of implementing these systems can be significant, proponents argue that the benefits to mental health and social interaction make it worthwhile. As society grapples with the impact of constant connectivity, the push for phone-free spaces may continue to grow.
