‘Connection test’ captures our emotional attachment to smartphones

A new video has shone a light on our emotional relationship with smartphones, revealing just how deeply connected we are to our devices.

Participants in the video underwent a “connection test,” designed to measure their emotional responses to cherished possessions – including their smartphones.

The results showed that many people value their mobile devices just as much as their most treasured personal belongings.

The test aligned with a recent survey by SquareTrade, which discovered eight in ten people feel emotionally attached to their phones, with nearly half admitting they “wouldn’t be able to function” in their daily lives without them.

Because of this reliance on their devices smartphone users regularly enter “panic mode” after less than an hour without it.

“Our phones are more than just devices – they’re our lifelines, holding memories, finances, and personal connections. ” said Kevin Gillan, European Managing Director of SquareTrade.

As well as keeping us connected, 34% of smartphone users rely on their pohnes for their banking and finance apps and 11% depend on their gadgets to organise their schedules, managing calendars and diaries.

But most importantly, 44% of users stressed that preserving photos and memories on their devices was more important than using it to communicate.

Despite this attachement to our devices Kevin pointed out that the research also showed a major gap in protection, leaving millions vulnerable to loss, theft or damage.

A third fear their device being stolen, yet only a mere 20% of phone owners say they have insurance, and almost half were in doubt that they can recover their data if their phone is lost or stolen.

Worryingly, one in five (22%) aren’t sure who to contact, and 43% find insurance policies too confusing and don’t know which ones they should have.

Kevin Gillan, from SquareTrade, added: “Smartphones are essential to our daily lives, but this dependence also makes them prime targets for theft and loss, disrupting everything from work to personal security.

“To tackle future challenges, we need integrated and affordable insurance solutions that combine hardware recovery with advanced data protection. It’s not just about replacing a phone – it’s about providing peace of mind in our digitally connected world.”