Chile has announced a nationwide ban on mobile phones and smart devices in elementary and middle school classrooms, a policy set to begin at the start of the 2026 academic year.
A Policy for Socialisation and Focus
Education Minister Nicolás Cataldo championed the move, describing it as a significant "cultural change" designed to enhance student concentration, improve learning outcomes, and foster better face-to-face socialisation among pupils. The decision follows mounting pressure from educators and parents concerned about the negative impact of constant digital connectivity on young people's development.
Joining a Global Trend
With this step, Chile aligns itself with a growing list of nations that have introduced similar restrictions. France, Brazil, and China are among the countries that have already implemented various forms of smartphone bans within their schools. The Chilean government's rationale is strongly supported by international research.
Notable studies, including comprehensive analyses by the OECD and research conducted in the UK, indicate that the presence of digital devices in classrooms can be a substantial distraction, hindering the educational process. Conversely, evidence suggests that banning phones can lead to measurable improvements in academic performance and overall pupil wellbeing.
The Human Element in Education
At the heart of the ban is a simple, human-centric goal: encouraging children to interact directly with one another. As highlighted by officials, the measure underscores the need for students to "see each other’s faces" and engage without the intermediary of a screen. This sentiment echoes recent comments from public figures like Robbie Williams, who has previously likened smartphones to a 'drug' and restricted his own children from using them.
The new regulation represents a decisive shift in how Chile approaches the intersection of technology and childhood, prioritising interpersonal development and focused learning in the foundational years of education.
