Brits waste years of their lives mindlessly phone scrolling, study finds
A recent study by Virgin Media O2 reveals that Britons are projected to spend an average of four years and eight months mindlessly scrolling on their phones. The research indicates that over a third of phone usage occurs without a clear purpose, leading to negative effects on mental wellbeing. Many participants reported issues such as poor sleep and reduced focus due to their digital habits.
- ▪Britons are expected to spend an average of four years and eight months using mobile phones unintentionally.
- ▪36% of phone use occurs without a clear purpose, averaging about one hour and 26 minutes daily.
- ▪41% of participants linked poor sleep to their phone use, while 61% admitted they were 'not fully present' in social situations.
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TechBrits waste years of their lives mindlessly phone scrolling, study findsSome 69 per cent believed digital platforms were designed in ways that encouraged continued engagementJosie Clarke Wednesday 03 June 2026 05:06 EDTBookmarkCommentsGo to commentsBookmark popoverRemoved from bookmarksClose popover{"translations":{"comments":"Go to comments","share":"Share","copyLink":"Copy link","bookmark":"Bookmark","removeBookmark":"Remove bookmark"},"showComments":true,"showBookmark":true,"articleId":"CF1:2988379To1","articleMeta":{"url":"https://www.the-independent.com/tech/phone-screen-time-virgin-media-o2-b2988569.html","title":"Brits waste years of their lives mindlessly phone scrolling"}}Scrolling Your Phone On The Toilet Increases Risk Of HemorrhoidsYour support helps us to tell the…
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