Digital detox challenge: How Chinese woman won 1 lakh for ditching phone 8 hours

In an age dominated by digital screens and constant notifications, how long can one truly stay disconnected? A unique contest held in Chongqing, China, tested this very question, challenging participants to go eight hours without using their phones. For one woman, the challenge turned into a rewarding experience as she walked away with a prize of over ₹1 lakh.

The contest: No phones, just patience

This unusual event took place in a bustling shopping center in November, attracting significant attention. Out of 100 eager applicants, only 10 were selected to participate. The rules were simple yet daunting: participants had to relinquish their phones and any electronic devices, lie on a bed, and endure eight hours without browsing, swiping, or even gaming.

Meals and drinks were served directly to the contestants’ beds, and toilet breaks were the only permitted escape from the confines of the challenge. However, there was a twist—participants were not allowed to sleep, making the challenge even more demanding.

Finding calm without screens

To pass the time, some participants resorted to reading books, while others simply closed their eyes to rest without falling asleep. The contest aimed to observe whether staying disconnected from their devices induced anxiety, a growing concern in the digital age.

A victorious outcome

The ultimate winner, a calm and composed woman who showed no signs of anxiety or restlessness throughout the contest, claimed the grand prize of 10,000 yuan (approximately ₹1.14 lakh or US$1,400). Her impressive ability to stay unbothered by the lack of digital engagement secured her victory and inspired onlookers to reconsider their own screen time habits.