New research from the UK’s leading sexual wellness retailer, Lovehoney, reveals that couples in London are among the worst affected by digital distraction in relationships.

35% of adults in London say their partner spends too much time on their phone, whilst 60% admit finding phone use a turn off.

The findings highlight a growing romantic ‘Phonedemic’ affecting couples across London, with constant scrolling, streaming and notifications increasingly replacing connection, communication and intimacy.

68% of respondents in London said they use their phones in bed next to their partner; one third (33%) have checked their phones immediately after sex; whilst 77% use phones in bed before going to sleep.

Nationwide, smartphones are now one of the biggest disruptors of intimacy.

Lovehoney’s study shows that phone use is cited as the biggest cause of arguments for 12% of those in a relationship – rising to nearly one in five (18%) among Gen Z and Millennial couples.

The study shows concerningly, 10% of Brits said they would likely be on their phone during sex, with the number higher for Gen Z and Millennials (both 18%).

Average daily screentime in the UK is 4 hours 6 minutes, for Gen Z, 5 hours 35 minutes, and for Millennials, 5 hours 7 minutes. 15% of Gen Z and 14% of Millennials even admit to spending over 9 hours a day on their phones.

Annabelle Knight, sex and relationships expert at Lovehoney, said:

“Phones have quietly become the third wheel in so many relationships. When we’re constantly connected to our screens, we disconnect from each other – we stop noticing those small, intimate moments that build closeness. Whether it’s scrolling in bed or replying to messages mid-conversation, these habits chip away at real connection. It’s no wonder 61% of Brits say it’s a turn-off when their partner is glued to their phone. True intimacy starts when the screens go dark – when we slow down, tune in, and give each other our full attention.”

As couples look to switch off and reconnect, Annabelle offers three simple, practical ways to bring intimacy and connection back into the bedroom:

Set aside dedicated phone-free time – even an evening without screens can help couples focus entirely on each other.
2.  Engage in shared sensory experiences – use touch, scent, and sight to heighten awareness of your partner and the environment.
3. Explore play and connection together – interactive games or gentle challenges can break routines and create shared fun.

Win off-grid romantic escape to reconnect
To help couples ‘Turn Off to Turn On’ Lovehoney has partnered with Shacks, who offer off-grid luxury stays designed to help couples step away from digital distractions and rediscover intimacy.

A limited number of intimacy boxes are available to anyone booking a cabin directly through Shacks, and one lucky couple can win a 2-night romantic escape at a Shacks off-grid luxury cabin. Enter via the Lovehoney website – https://www.lovehoney.co.uk/trends-insights/how-screen-time-affects-intimacy.html