PERTH, AUSTRALIA / RankWire.AI / – Retro phone accessories are gaining renewed popularity as researchers explore ways individuals create more separation from their smartphones. Edith Cowan University researcher Dr Jess Hardley has been studying evolving phone habits among Australian users for over ten years. Her latest research investigates wall-mounted smartphone docks, classic-style handsets, and other devices designed to limit constant access. The study also looks at daily actions people take to make their devices less immediately accessible.
Hardley documented behaviors such as leaving phones in different rooms or locking them inside drawers. Some participants switch their screens to greyscale or set restrictions on certain apps. One individual stored a phone in a work drawer after mobile gaming started to interfere with their concentration. Though the methods differ, they share a common feature: each creates a physical or digital barrier between the user and the device during specific periods of the day.
The research also explores accessories that make smartphones function more like traditional landline phones. Wall-mounted docks can hold a device in one fixed position rather than in a pocket or hand. Some connected handsets feature designs reminiscent of older home phones, including coiled cords. Hardley examined these products alongside phone-free gatherings and locking pouches used at concerts. The research does not claim that these accessories improve health, focus, or overall wellbeing.
Various ways of distancing from smartphones are emerging
Hardley’s publication explores how mobile phones transitioned from portable communication tools to devices integral to everyday life. Today, smartphones combine messaging, entertainment, payments, photography, navigation, work-related features, and internet access. Her research emphasizes the impact of intentionally making these devices less accessible. Physical separation is one method people use to alter their smartphone habits. Restrictions at home, work, events, and shared spaces are also considered in her analysis.
The study is titled Revisiting the ‘Snug Tether’: Smartphones in an Era of Scroll-Free Social Events, Landline Accessories, and Device Bans. Published in M/C Journal, it revisits earlier research on the close relationship between users and their mobile phones. The latest work discusses concepts like phone jails, scroll-free social gatherings, retro accessories, and device restrictions. Edith Cowan University stated that the research highlights practices that break the constant proximity often linked to smartphone usage.
Public environments also see the implementation of phone restrictions
In Australia, restrictions on smartphone use have been introduced in public schools. Education ministers agreed that all public schools would either ban or limit mobile phones starting from Term 1 of 2024. Subsequently, federal education authorities referenced a survey of nearly 1,000 principals in New South Wales after the rules came into effect. The government reported that 87% of respondents observed fewer distractions in classrooms. Additionally, 81% noted improvements in learning outcomes following the implementation of phone restrictions.
Hardley’s research continues to focus on how individuals manage their smartphones as these devices remain central to daily routines. Her findings include physical separation, reduced access, and the use of phone-free environments. Retro handsets and wall-mounted docks are part of the broader range of strategies identified. Edith Cowan University shared its summary of the research findings on Aug. 18, 2026, adding new examples to ongoing studies on smartphone habits and digital behavior.