A city in Japan, on August 20, 2025, proposed a two-hour daily smartphone usage limit to address concerns about digital addiction among residents.
The initiative, announced in Kanagawa Prefecture, targets youth and adults, aiming to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce screen time’s impact on mental well-being. Local officials, led by the city’s mayor, cited rising cases of social isolation and sleep disorders as key drivers for the policy.
The proposal encourages voluntary adherence, with schools and community centers offering workshops to foster balanced technology use. It includes guidelines for parents to monitor children’s smartphone habits, emphasizing outdoor activities and face-to-face interaction.
The city plans to collaborate with tech companies to develop apps that track and limit usage, creating a model for other municipalities. The initiative builds on Japan’s efforts to address digital overreliance, seen in similar campaigns nationwide.
The plan has sparked debate, with some praising its focus on mental health, while others question its practicality in a tech-driven society. Nigeria, with its growing smartphone penetration, watches the proposal as a potential framework for addressing similar concerns. The Kanagawa initiative tests Japan’s ability to balance innovation with well-being, setting a precedent for global digital policies as cities navigate the challenges of modern connectivity.