Why trust Greenbot
Managing multiple devices is becoming a daily challenge for European office workers, according to a recent study by HONOR. The survey of 8,000 professionals shows that juggling three devices—often a laptop, tablet, and phone—is straining both mental focus and physical comfort. With hybrid work driving 67% of respondents to carry more tech, employees are feeling the pressure in more ways than one.
The survey results were presented during the launch of the HONOR Magic V3, as reported by TechRadar and Gizmochina. It was found that, on average, office workers carry three devices daily: laptops and tablets, headphones, and phones. Altogether, these devices weigh about 4.1 kg, close to the weight of an air fryer. Hybrid work was cited by 67% of workers as the reason for carrying more tech, and many report both physical discomfort and stress. In fact, 12% of respondents said they worry about the health effects of carrying this heavy load.
Mental strain is also mounting as employees manage a steady stream of notifications. About 25% of respondents said they feel overwhelmed by the number of notifications they receive each day, and 1 in 7 reported handling more than 30 notifications daily. This makes it hard to focus and leaves many workers feeling drained.
The study also found that 1 in 4 workers would feel lost without their gadgets, and 15% said that technology has become a central part of their lives.
Many companies are intensifying their return-to-office requirements. Amazon, for instance, announced a strict five-day in-office workweek starting in January 2025, escalating from its previous three-day requirement. For employees, this means commuting more often with multiple devices in tow, which intensifies the physical load.
Tony Ran, President of HONOR EU, pointed to the impact these devices have on workers, both “literally and figuratively.” He emphasized how technology remains essential, but more innovative designs could reduce this load.
For many, an all-in-one device offers hope. More than half (52%) of those surveyed said they would be willing to pay extra for a device that could handle all their needs. Foldable phones, like HONOR’s new Magic V3, could be a potential option. One in six respondents expressed interest in foldable phones, viewing them as an ideal way to combine the functionality of multiple devices into one.
While tech is necessary for productivity, the study shows that a balance is needed. Hybrid work may offer flexibility, but for many workers, it also brings an increased load—both in terms of devices and the stress of being always connected. All-in-one devices could be a step toward achieving that goal, potentially lightening the load on the shoulders—and minds—of workers everywhere.
