The big experiment: Three weeks without a smartphone
On March 4, 2026, an unprecedented experiment begins in Austria: three weeks without a smartphone! What seems unthinkable for many young people becomes reality through the initiative of ORF and the program 'Dok 1'. The aim is to research the effects of digital abstinence on the well-being of young people. But what does this mean for the participants and what consequences will it have for society?
Background and goals
The idea for this experiment emerged after the successful broadcast of the 'Dok 1' program in September 2025. Moderated by Lisa Gadenstätter, the show reached hundreds of thousands of viewers and sparked a wave of interest. Now all pupils from the 5th grade onward have the opportunity to take on this challenge. The project is supported by the Anton Proksch Institut and the Sigmund Freud PrivatUniversität in Vienna.
The goal is ambitious: less screen time and abstinence from social media. The effects on mood, sleep and the mental health of the young people are the focus of the scientific monitoring. The Ministry of Education actively supports the experiment and has informed around 57,000 teachers.
A look into the past
The influence of smartphones on our lives is a phenomenon of the last two decades. Since the introduction of the first iPhone in 2007, the use of mobile devices has developed rapidly. According to a 2024 study, young people in Austria spend on average more than four hours a day on their smartphone. Constant availability and the pressure to be present on social media have far-reaching effects on mental health.
Comparable experiments in other countries, such as in the USA and the UK, have shown that a temporary abstinence from digital media can lead to an improvement in well-being. Participants reported better sleep, increased productivity and more intense social interaction.
The effects on everyday life
For many young people, the smartphone is an indispensable companion. It serves not only for communication but also as a source of information, an entertainment medium and an organizational tool. The abstinence could therefore bring about profound changes in everyday life. Experts like Oliver Scheibenbogen from the Anton Proksch Institut see this as an opportunity for self-exploration. 'A temporary break from phones helps us reflect on the fantastic possibilities the analog world offers,' Scheibenbogen explains.
- Communication: Without a smartphone, new ways must be found to stay in contact with friends and family.
- Organization: Many young people use their phone for scheduling. Alternatives must be found to structure everyday life.
- Leisure activities: Without digital distraction, new hobbies and interests could be discovered.
Expert opinions and political support
Michael Musalek of the Sigmund Freud PrivatUniversität emphasizes the societal relevance of the experiment. 'We have entered a new era and must find ways to deal with it. Simply issuing bans will not be the solution to the problem,' Musalek says. Education Minister Christoph Wiederkehr is also enthusiastic: 'It's fantastic that this experiment can be carried out and reflected on together at school, with friends and within the class group.'
The path to the future
The results of the experiment are eagerly awaited. At the end of May 2026, the findings are to be presented in another edition of 'Dok 1'. But it is already clear: the experiment could trigger a rethinking in the use of smartphones. If it succeeds in proving the positive effect of abstinence, this could have far-reaching consequences for society.
The discussion about responsible use of digital media is more topical than ever. The findings from Austria could also attract international attention and serve as a model for similar projects. It remains to be seen how the young people will react to the challenge and what long-term effects the experiment will have.
Conclusion
The '3 Weeks Without a Smartphone' experiment is not only a test for the participants but also a societal experiment that questions the importance of digital media in our lives. With the support of scientists, teachers and politicians, attempts are being made to find new approaches to dealing with digital media. Whether the experiment will lead to a more conscious and healthier use of smartphones in the long term remains to be seen.
