Fair point. I think when it comes to getting side-tracked, it's partly to do with the current 'pull' model of going into the phone for information, vs a 'push'

Fair point. I think when it comes to getting side-tracked, it's partly to do with the current 'pull' model of going into the phone for information, vs a 'push' model of the information coming to you. Though, as you point out, either is distracting and self-discipline is the real answer to staying focused. The critical thing there will be managing what notifications you get, and which you silence. This is why iOS 8 made such a big change in the way notification permissions are handled.