Why We Go Device-Free
In our hyperconnected world, phones have become both bridge and barrier to authentic connection. While they keep us linked to distant networks, they often pull us away from the people right in front of us. By temporarily securing our devices, we create space for the kind of presence that makes genuine connection possible.
When phones are put away, something shifts. Eye contact increases. Conversations deepen. People listen differently when they're not mentally composing their next social media post or anticipating the next notification. The result is the rare experience of being truly seen and heard.
Yondr FAQ
Will my phone be taken away from me?
No, you keep your phone with you at all times. You simply place it in a Yondr pouch that locks when closed, and you hold onto the pouch throughout the event.
What if I need my phone during the event?
Emergency access is always available. If you need your phone during the event, simply step to the unlock area and a facilitator can help you access it temporarily.
Is this technology reliable and safe?
Yondr pouches are trusted by major artists, schools, and organizations worldwide. The technology is proven and your device remains completely safe while secured.
Can I still receive emergency calls?
While your phone is secured, you can always access it quickly if needed by stepping to the unlock area. For true emergencies, facilitators also have access to communication if necessary.
What if I feel anxious without access to my phone?
That initial moment of anxiety is completely normal - many people experience it. Most participants report feeling surprisingly liberated within the first few minutes and discover they can be fully present in ways they hadn't experienced in years.
The Process
Arrive ready to connect - Bring your phone as usual
Secure your device - Slip your phone into the Yondr pouch yourself
Hear the click - The pouch locks automatically when closed
Stay connected to your pouch - Keep it with you throughout the experience
Unlock and reconnect - Tap the magnetic base when you're ready to leave
We’ll help you every step of the way before, during and after the event with securing and unlocking your device.
What to Expect
You might feel a moment of anxiety when your phone locks - that's completely normal. Most people report feeling surprisingly liberated within the first few minutes. Emergency access is always available if needed, and you'll likely notice details about conversations and connections you would have missed otherwise.
The temporary inconvenience creates permanent memories. Participants consistently report that removing digital distractions leads to conversations they actually remember and connections that continue long after the event ends.