Key Facts

• Texting during a theatre performance is seen as disrespectful because it distracts actors and other audience members.
• Some people with disabilities use phones as aids, so blanket phone bans can unintentionally exclude them.
• Phones should be off or on silent in places like theatres and cinemas to avoid disturbing others.
• Keeping phones on the table in restaurants is discouraged because notifications can interrupt social interaction.
• If you expect an important call, inform your company beforehand and take the call away from the group.
• Taking calls on loudspeaker in public forces others to listen and is considered rude.
• Most phone notifications are not urgent and can wait without causing problems.
• Good phone etiquette is about respecting people around you and not assuming your phone activity is more important.