The problem: At live concerts, a sea of raised phone screens often blocks views and distracts from the performance. Indie folk artist Phoebe Bridgers has rekindled the debate by announcing a 2026 tour with a strict no-devices policy. According to TechRadar, Bridgers told fans that 'phones, cameras, or any devices with recording and filming capabilities are prohibited.' Attendees must place their devices in a Yondr pouch, which stays locked until the gig ends or they choose to leave. Medical exemptions may be allowed, though this may vary by venue.
"There are some valid questions being asked about safety and emergency phone access," wrote TechRadar's David Nield, but he supports the move for a better live experience. The reaction on social media has been polarized, with the move described as "classist, dangerous, awesome, or just quite funny."
Poll Data: Strong Support for Restrictions
TechRadar polled its readers and received almost 1,500 votes. The results show clear support for minimizing phone use at gigs:
| Opinion | Percentage of Votes |
|---|---|
| Happy with phone-free gigs | 56% |
| Phones allowed but used less | 27% |
| Open to ban if 'discrete tech' can still capture photos/videos | 10% |
| 'No chance' to no phones (wanted to film) | 7% |
Only 7% opposed any restriction, preferring to film and take photos for memories. However, as Nield noted, those memories would likely feature other people's phones.
Arguments for Phone-Free Events
Nield argues that most concert photos and videos are not for personal reminiscing but for sharing on social media to get "clicks, likes, reposts." This leads to at least half the crowd not living in the moment. At one gig he attended, a person in front recorded three-quarters of the songs, forcing Nield to watch through that phone screen.
A humorous social media response captured the sentiment: 'You'd think you'd hear from people who have been to no-phones concerts explaining that it's fine and makes the show better. Unfortunately, every single one of them died of medical complications mid-show or was kidnapped.' (Posted June 7, 2026)
Personal Experience with Phoebe Bridgers
Nield first saw Bridgers in 2018 at the Leaf bar in Liverpool — a small venue with fewer than 150 people. He described it as having "a good view of whoever is playing, minimal hassle from the crowd, easy access to the bar, and very few people using their phones too much." He later saw her again in 2023 in Halifax, where the experience was different. While he enjoys taking a couple of photos per show, he believes the sacrifice is worth it for a better overall experience.
Broader Implications for Event Technology
While the debate continues, the use of Yondr pouches highlights a growing trend of technology enforcement at live events. For enterprise technology leaders, similar device-management solutions could be considered for corporate gatherings, trade shows, or sensitive environments. The poll indicates that the public may be more receptive to such policies than often assumed.
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