Some people think that the widespread use of smartphones has damaged the quality of communication between people. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

There is a common perception that smartphones, despite connecting us more than ever before, have actually weakened the quality of human communication. While I acknowledge that these devices can be distracting, I largely disagree with the claim that they have degraded the way we interact. Those who criticise smartphones tend to focus on face-to-face situations. It is certainly true that people now glance at their screens during meals or conversations, which can make others feel ignored. This behaviour may weaken the depth of a discussion, since genuine listening requires full attention. In this narrow sense, the criticism has some merit, as constant notifications inevitably fragment our focus. However, judging smartphones solely by these moments overlooks their broader benefits. Above all, they have made communication accessible in ways that were previously impossible. Families separated by great distances can now see one another instantly through video calls, and friendships are easily maintained across borders. Rather than replacing meaningful contact, technology often preserves relationships that distance would otherwise erode. Furthermore, the quality of communication depends far more on the intentions of the people involved than on the tool they use. A thoughtful person will use a smartphone to send a message of support in a difficult moment, whereas a careless individual would be inattentive with or without a device. In other words, smartphones amplify existing habits rather than creating new flaws in human character. In conclusion, although smartphones can occasionally interrupt personal interaction, I do not believe they have fundamentally damaged the quality of communication. On the contrary, when used with awareness, they expand our ability to stay meaningfully connected with the people who matter most to us.