Presence is the priority.
What’s happening: Phone-free events jumped 567% globally last year, per Eventbrite, as younger consumers seek authenticity over curation.
Unplugged. A barrier to connection, nearly half of Gen Z and millennials say phones hold them back socially, wanting more spontaneity from live experiences.
Gaining momentum, attendance to phone-moderated events this year is up 913% in the US and 1,441% in the UK.
Private party. As 84% of people return to analog hobbies, US-based Kanso hosts intentional activities, as Read with The Switch Off prompts uninterrupted reading sessions in England.
Removing distractions, Yondr and Lockabl’s device-sealing pouches have become the norm at concerts and event venues. Escaping cancel culture, nightclubs are implementing phone-free dance floors and camera covers to prevent nonconsensual filming.
Punchline: Enjoying the moment instead of documenting it, phone-free events are helping people live in the moment and reestablish IRL connection.
