Japanese City Proposes Two-Hour Daily Smartphone Limit

The Japanese city of Toyoake in Aichi Prefecture has proposed an ordinance recommending residents limit their smartphone use to two hours a day outside of work and study, aiming to address health issues and excessive usage affecting sleep and family time. The guideline, which would not be legally binding or penalized, suggests children stop using devices by 9 p.m. and older students and adults by 10 p.m., with exceptions for activities like online learning and e-sports. Mayor Masafumi Koki emphasized that the proposal is meant to encourage mindful screen time rather than restrict freedoms, acknowledging smartphones' usefulness. The plan has sparked significant public debate, with around 80% of feedback expressing opposition, citing concerns about practicality and personal freedom, while some residents support the measure to combat smartphone addiction. If approved, the ordinance would take effect in October and would be among the first of its kind in Japan targeting all residents of a municipality. The city highlighted issues such as students skipping school and adults sacrificing sleep or family interactions due to excessive smartphone use as key motivators for the proposal.