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Brain Drain: The Mere Presence of One’s Own Smartphone Reduces Available Cognitive Capacity
Our smartphones enable—and encourage—constant connection to information, entertainment, and
each other. They put the world at our fingertips, and rarely leave our sides. Although these devices have immense potential
to improve welfare, their persistent presence may come at a cognitive cost. In this research, we test the “brain
drain” hypothesis that the mere presence of one’s own smartphone may occupy limited-capacity cognitive resources,
thereby leaving fewer resources available for other tasks and undercutting cognitive performance. Results from two
experiments indicate that even when people are successful at maintaining sustained attention—as when avoiding
the temptation to check their phones—the mere presence of these devices reduces available cognitive capacity. Moreover,
these cognitive costs are highest for those highest in smartphone dependence. We conclude by discussing the
practical implications of this smartphone-induced brain drain for consumer decision-making and consumer welfare.Marketin