PERTH, AUSTRALIA / RankWire.AI / – Retro phone accessories are gaining renewed interest as researchers explore ways individuals create distance from their smartphones. Edith Cowan University researcher Dr Jess Hardley has studied evolving phone habits among Australian users for over ten years. Her latest research investigates wall-mounted smartphone docks, classic-style handsets, and other tools designed to limit constant device access. The study also considers everyday strategies people adopt to make their devices less immediately available.
Hardley observed practices such as leaving phones in separate rooms or locking them inside drawers. Some participants switch their screens to greyscale or set restrictions on certain applications. One individual stored a phone in a work drawer after mobile gaming began to interfere with their focus. Although these actions vary in form, they share a common purpose: creating physical or digital barriers that limit device access during specific times of the day.
The research also explores accessories that make smartphones operate more like traditional landline phones. Wall-mounted docks keep devices stationary rather than in pockets or hands. Some connected handsets feature designs reminiscent of older home phones, such as coiled cords. Hardley examined these products along with phone-free gatherings and locking pouches used at concerts. The research does not claim that such accessories improve health, attention, or wellbeing.
Various approaches exist for distancing oneself from smartphones
Hardley’s publication analyzes how mobile phones transitioned from portable communication tools to essential elements of daily life. Modern smartphones now encompass messaging, entertainment, financial transactions, photography, navigation, work-related functions, and internet browsing. Her research emphasizes what shifts occur when users intentionally make these devices less accessible, including physical separation as a strategy to modify smartphone habits. The study also explores restrictions implemented in homes, workplaces, events, and shared environments.
The publication, titled Revisiting the ‘Snug Tether’: Smartphones in an Era of Scroll-Free Social Events, Landline Accessories, and Device Bans, appeared in M/C Journal. It revisits earlier research on the close relationship between users and their mobile phones. The latest findings include phone jails, social events without scrolling, retro accessories, and device restrictions. Edith Cowan University stated that the research highlights practices aimed at reducing the constant proximity often linked to smartphone use.
Public settings also see the adoption of phone restrictions
In Australia, restrictions on smartphone use have extended into public education settings. Education ministers agreed that all public schools will either ban or limit mobile phone use starting from Term 1 of 2024. Following these measures, federal education authorities referenced a survey conducted by New South Wales involving nearly 1,000 principals. The government reported that 87% observed decreased distraction among students in classrooms. Additionally, 81% noted improvements in learning outcomes after implementing phone restrictions.
Hardley’s research continues to focus on how individuals manage smartphones as these devices maintain a prominent role in everyday routines. It highlights physical separation, limited accessibility, and phone-free environments as key methods adopted by users. Retro handsets and wall-mounted docks represent just part of this broader set of practices. Edith Cowan University published its summary of the findings on Aug. 18, 2026, providing further insights into ongoing research on smartphone habits and digital behavior.