Japanese city pushes two-hour daily smartphone limit to promote healthier sleep for its citizens, particularly school-age children

Too much screen time?.

A city in central Japan is considering regulating smartphone use to benefit the health of its citizens. Kyodo News reports that the local government in Toyoake, in Aichi Prefecture, intends “to pass an ordinance recommending all residents limit smartphone use to two hours a day outside of work and school.” Parents may welcome the regulation as a tool to limit their child’s screen time, but it is admitted that there will be no official penalties for those who ‘overuse’ their smartphones.

The new regulation affecting smart device users will be put before a local assembly between now and October 1, 2025. If the ordinance receives the green light, it will take effect on the same day.