Don’t let your phone ruin your time out

Artem Beliaikin

A study found your phone could be sapping the enjoyment out of mealtimes with family and friends. You already suspect your smartphone may be detracting from your mealtime experience, but researchers from the University of British Columbia confirmed your technology fears. The researchers recruited over 300 people who didn’t know the study was focused on smartphone usage. The participants went to a cafe with friends and family. They were randomly assigned to either hide their phones away or keep them out on the table during the meal. The diners later answered questions about the experience. People with phones out reported feeling more distracted and experienced less enjoyment of the time with family and friends than people with their phones hidden away. On a seven-point scale rating enjoyment, the phone users came in at about half a point less than their non-distracted peers.