Vivo India has released the seventh edition of its annual Switch Off Study, this time focused on how smartphones are impacting parent-child relationships. The report highlights how constant digital distractions are affecting everyday family moments and reminds people to prioritize real-life connections at home.

According to the research, dinner time remains the most predictable daily linking point for families. About 72% of kids said they spend the most time with their parents during this time. Keeping phones away during meals helps families place greater importance on meaningful conversations and the moments they share in life. About 91% of the kids said it is much easier to talk when phones are kept aside. Even brief phone checks by parents can break the continuity of conversation, and children are quick to notice when attention shifts away from them.

How Phone Usage Differs Between Parents and Kids

Phone use can be clearly differentiated between parents and children: parents use phones frequently for short checks, while children mostly use phones for entertainment. The gap becomes more visible during shared activities when parents become more active on their devices.

Children are increasingly dependent on AI tools for their daily lives. More than half of 10–16-year-olds report using AI for schoolwork, learning, and self-improvement. In some instances, children use AI even for companionship and conversation, beyond actual human interaction.

The report makes it clear that more often, children feel that parents are too busy to engage. Consequently, one in four children says they now speak less with their parents because they turn to AI instead. This kind of lack of attention in everyday moments contributes to an increase in emotional distance within the family.

Everyday Habits Helping Families Reconnect

To feel more connected, families are making small but meaningful changes. Parents and children are cutting down screen time, switching off notifications, and keeping phones away during shared moments. Offline activities, such as games or conversations, are helping families reconnect naturally. Phone-free habits are helping families reconnect. When parents stay offline during shared time, children follow suit, showing that small changes can lead to long-term improvements in family bonding.

Vivo’s Message Behind the Study

Vivo lets people know through the Switch Off Study that technology should support real relationships and not replace them. The brand encourages responsible smartphone use, reminding families that staying present in important moments helps nurture better, healthier connections at home.