Top 20 memorable moments Brits miss out on due to watching them via their phones

10 August 2023 , 10:21

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Nearly three in ten Brits regret not being more present in the moment during life's major moments, due to experiencing them through a phone screen (Image: Motorola)

Enjoying time outdoors in nature, visiting an iconic landmark, and watching a loved one blow out their birthday candles, are some of the top moments Brits feel they have missed out on – due to experiencing them through the screen of a smartphone, research has found.

Other memorable moments people feel they were not truly present for include seeing an animal in the wild on holiday, their favourite band or artist playing their favourite song live – and even the birth of their child.

In fact, over 20 minutes of milestone moments, on average, have been captured on a smartphone – with 28% of Brits wishing they had simply lived in the moment more.

And, of the 2,000 adults polled, six in ten say they wish they could relive these moments, but in person instead of through their phone.

It emerged that 84% of adults have used their phones to capture life's most memorable moments, since the smartphone camera revolution.

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However, four in ten admit they don't often watch the content back – and one in ten say they rarely, or never, do so.

And despite being guilty of it themselves, almost half (46%) confess to getting frustrated if someone is stood in front of them capturing content on occasions such as a concert or football match.

Top 20 memorable moments Brits miss out on due to watching them via their phones

But a third of Brits have reduced their daily screen time this year, compared to previous years (Motorola)

The research was commissioned by Motorola UK, to launch its razr 40 family – inspired by the original early 00s model, as the retro notion of being able to flip shut a device to avoid distraction grows in popularity.

Miles Norman, general manager for the phone brand, said: “Our research shows that people are getting fatigued by over-consumption on their phones, and it’s become second nature to grab our devices at big moments.

“It’s important to capture key moments, but it’s also important to not live life through a lens, and be more present in the moment – it’s about finding the right balance.”

The research also shows that 45% are wanting to be more flexible, and only check their phone for notifications, or take a few snaps and then put their phone away.

And 33% say they are spending less time on their smart phone this year compared to previous years, cutting down their average daily screen time by almost 20 minutes.

A further 44% have said they’ve previously made efforts to reduce their smartphone screentime – with the biggest driver being because they wanted to spend more time in the present (68%), according to the OnePoll.com data.

Three in ten said that the screen break made them feel energised, while 16% said they became more productive, and over half (56%) said they enjoyed their experiences with friends and family because they were more present.

Miles Norman, from Motorola UK, added: “The research shines a light on the positive benefits of being immersed in the present, and our technology can help people find their sweet spot and have a more flexible relationship with their phone.”