Beware of smartphone zombies in Bengaluru! Signboard warning goes viral

In Bengaluru, a signboard displaying the ominous warning 'Beware of Smartphone Zombies' has seized public attention, igniting a widespread debate on the prevalent issue of smartphone addiction.

The stark image portrays two stick figures engrossed in their phones, oblivious to their surroundings, serving as a poignant reminder of the growing digital distraction epidemic.

The term 'Smartphone Zombies' refers to individuals so absorbed in their devices that they resemble the walking dead, disconnected from the physical world.

This behaviour not only leads to decreased productivity and social disconnection but also poses safety risks, especially when navigating busy streets while glued to phones.

Shared by user @prakritea17 with the caption, "This signboard in BLR singlehandedly attacked our entire generation," the photo quickly went viral, prompting a flurry of reactions from the public. 

This signboard in BLR singlehandedly attacked our entire generation pic.twitter.com/iN2OsuGBE5

— Prakriti (@prakritea17) January 19, 2024

Comments ranged from humorous observations to calls for increased awareness about responsible phone usage, particularly while crossing busy intersections.

Here are some of the reactions of users:

Brilliantly created ...

— Anand BR (@branand) January 23, 2024

Yes I too see many people using mobile in traffic they can’t wait for 30 to 60 (avg signal seconds ) without using mobile

— prasanna kumar -e/acc (@VpkPrasanna) January 19, 2024

Nowadays it looks like talking over the phone while crossing the busiest junction is a mandatory stuff for pedestrians .. .. . people lack basic sences

— N (@bnnaren) January 20, 2024

Wtf 😐 is this even real ? 😭

— CA.AnAnyA (@Anu09_) January 19, 2024

Notably, in India, smartphone addiction is alarmingly high, affecting an estimated 39% to 44% of the population. Teenagers are particularly vulnerable, facing potential health and psychological consequences. The root cause of this addiction lies in the dopamine release triggered by notifications, creating a cycle of temporary pleasure followed by a letdown.