Bill Gates urges responsible smartphone use, warns of risks

Smartphones are everywhere today – from the office to the home, from school to the playground. This tool facilitates life but can also bring many problems if we do not know how to control it properly. Bill Gates has repeatedly warned against the excessive use of technology, emphasizing that children, in particular, should use smartphones moderately and fully aware. What advice does one of the most influential people in the world have for us?

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and billionaire, has repeatedly pointed out the dangers of excessive smartphone use, especially by children. In a recent interview with the British magazine The Mirror, Gates emphasized that technology should serve people, not control them. He warned against the damaging effects associated with excessive phone use, which can lead to mental health issues, social isolation, and difficulties concentrating.

According to Gates, smartphones should not dominate our lives, particularly during significant moments for building relationships with loved ones. He recommends avoiding phones during shared meals to focus on conversations and be present for the family. Gates himself applied these principles in his home, limiting his children's access to smartphones until the age of 14.

We don’t have cellphones at the table when we are having a meal, we didn’t give our kids cellphones until they were 14 and they complained other kids got them earlier – Gates said in an interview with The Mirror.

Alongside his warnings, Bill Gates also provided valuable tips on how to use smartphones responsibly. His approach involves setting clear boundaries and rules that help in balanced technology use. Regular screen breaks and limiting phone use in the evening hours can significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being. Gates also encourages replacing digital interactions with real-life contacts and physical activity.

We often set a time after which there is no screen time and in their case that helps them get to sleep at a reasonable hour – emphasized Bill Gates.

Gates' recommendation regarding setting hours after which children should not use electronic devices is worth noting. Such a schedule can help develop healthy habits and better time management. This gives children a chance to rest, proper social development, and time for other activities, which is crucial for their mental health.