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Airplane Mode Is Not Just For Airplanes
Who knew? Let’s start by asking: Which camp are you in?
Camp A: Well, isn’t airplane mode just for airplanes?
Camp B: I’m in the camp that says: “since that’s the title of the article, ‘Airplane Mode’ must have another purpose.”
Before we talk about how airplane mode can actually help you, what does airplane mode actually do and why do airlines request it be turned on before takeoff?
Quick history lesson: Airplane mode turns off your phone’s primary wireless signals (such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Cellular), so that it doesn’t interfere with the similar signals airplane pilots use to perform important communications with air-traffic control down below. Airplane mode, or alternatively “flight mode”, “offline mode” was implemented in the 1990s after early cellular devices on airplanes were causing interference and annoying clicking sounds with pilot communications.
OK Gabe, that’s great and all, but get to the point already, how can this help me when I’m on the ground? Besides saving battery life, here are 3 “moments” where I find turning on airplane mode (or if possible, turning off your phone altogether) can have a tremendous impact on your mood and focus.