The modern "consensus" seems to be that at such events, many if not most people do leave their phone in their pocket for a good first hour or so. So a basic awa

The modern "consensus" seems to be that at such events, many if not most people do leave their phone in their pocket for a good first hour or so. So a basic awareness still exists. Then comes the predictable ice breaker event. Somebody, as part of their conversation, needs their phone to show you something. The car they want to buy. Looking up a fact to settle your argument. The first phone comes out, starting the phone avalanche. Everybody knows its ok now, and check their messages or whatever. The seal is broken. The addiction is so widespread that we're still at full denial stage at society level. Because the true reason almost everybody is itchy to pull out that phone is so bitter that it cannot be said out loud, but I will: Whatever is on that phone, you find more interesting than your friends. And quite likely, because it really is more interesting. Because your phone can do anything and is full of surprises, yet your friend is not. Downvote me, the truth hurts.