Stop texting at the table; there’s a placemat for that

Courtesy: Ikea

Courtesy: Ikea

If you have a smartphone, you know the struggle to disconnect is real.

Friends, your boss, and your mother now expect an almost instant response to every text, email, and phone call. Sometimes it seems like the person lighting up your phone is more important than the person lighting up your life, sitting right across from you.

Now it appears Ikea has decided enough is enough!

The company best known for its low-priced, ready-to-assemble furniture is getting ready to roll out its LOGGED OUT placemats. The placemats feature a pocket for your phone.

(This is real; you can see for yourself on page 8 of of the September 2015 Press Kit.)

“Even though most of us enjoy the physical meeting with friends, more and more people are bringing their smartphones with them to the dining table. So why not hide them in a pocket at least? Put them away for a while and let go of the constant checking of social media updates,” reads the product description in the press kit.
The $1.99 placemats are part of the SITTNING collection of plates, glasses, vases, candle holders, and tablecloths. They’ll be available in September.
Courtesy: Ikea

Courtesy: Ikea

 

If the thought of putting your phone in a pocket for the duration of dinner induces panic, this placemat picture suggests the cloth is very thin and you’ll still be able to see your phone lighting up.

Courtesy: EB Brands

Courtesy: EB Brands

Conversely, if you’re looking for a more severe solution for your smartphone-obsessed dinner companion, send the cell to the slammer. This Cell Lock-Up is available right now on Amazon for about $16.

Jon Chrisos

About Jon Chrisos

Award-winning journalist Jon Chrisos is the investigative and consumer reporter at CBS 13 in Portland. He also anchors weeknights at 5:30. Chrisos is “On Your Side” investigating the stories that make a difference in your life. He’s passionate about helping those who’ve been wronged, exposing government waste, asking tough questions, and uncovering the truth.